Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for cozy nights. Loaded with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables like spinach and carrots, and a savory blend of herbs in a rich broth, this slow-cooked soup is both hearty and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Let the crockpot do the heavy lifting—just toss in the ingredients and go about your day.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of chicken broth, cream, and gnocchi creates a luscious texture that’s perfect for dipping bread.
- Nutritious and Versatile: Loaded with protein, vegetables, and a satisfying base, it’s a balanced meal in a bowl.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use Fresh Gnocchi: Opt for shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi for the best texture. Add them towards the end to prevent overcooking.
- Sear the Chicken First: While optional, browning your chicken before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor.
- Choose Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth forms the base of this soup, so use one with a robust flavor.
- Thicken to Your Preference: If you like a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in about 30 minutes before serving.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some delicious variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for mushrooms or cannellini beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This hearty soup shines as the centerpiece of a meal. Pair it with:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every creamy drop.
- Simple Salad: A side of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle a generous amount over each serving for added depth and savoriness.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The soup thickens as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
- Freeze: While freezing is possible, gnocchi can become mushy. Consider freezing the soup without the gnocchi and adding fresh gnocchi when reheating.
- Reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken before adding it to the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
What kind of gnocchi should I use?
Potato gnocchi is the most common choice, but you can also experiment with sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free gnocchi and double-check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
How can I make the soup more flavorful?
Adding a splash of white wine, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works well. Simply shred it and add it during the last hour of cooking.
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for cozy nights. Loaded with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables like spinach and carrots, and a savory blend of herbs in a rich broth, this slow-cooked soup is both hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 large carrot (peeled and chopped)
- ½ medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 ribs celery (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 3 cups small gnocchi (500g)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prep Your Slow Cooker: Line your slow cooker for easy cleanup (optional but life-changing).
- Build the Base: Add chopped carrot, celery, onion, seasonings (parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper), and broth to the slow cooker. Nestle the chicken breasts into the liquid.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or remove it to a cutting board for easier handling.
- Thicken It Up: Whisk heavy cream and cornstarch together, then stir into the soup. Add the gnocchi and cook on high for 1 hour until tender.
- Finish with Spinach and Cheese: Stir in chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and enjoy the cozy, creamy goodness!
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 354Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 90mgSodium 457mgCarbohydrates 33gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 22g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a meal that nourishes both body and soul. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this soup is sure to delight every time.
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