Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an inviting, creamy dish that brings a comforting warmth to any table. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Ideal for busy days, this recipe allows you to throw everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work! The result is a rich and creamy soup that’s bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and infuse the broth with savory goodness, while the gnocchi adds a delightful texture. Perfect for busy weekdays, this recipe requires minimal effort—simply chop your ingredients, toss them into the crockpot, and let it simmer away. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal that fits well into a balanced diet, offering protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one delicious bowl.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs and vegetables. Fresh thyme and spinach can elevate the dish significantly.
- Sauté Before Slow Cooking: If you have time, sauté the onions, garlic, and chicken in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the flavors.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prep the ingredients the night before. Chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also season the chicken with your spices beforehand and keep it in the fridge overnight. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Use turkey or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more variety.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
How to Serve
Serve your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup in deep bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch of richness. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this delightful soup with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, which complement the creamy texture beautifully. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette rounds out the meal perfectly. For dessert, consider a light and fruity sorbet to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftover soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up as it may thicken in the fridge.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. If you don’t have one, you can use a Dutch oven on low heat.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring your ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream. Ensure that the gnocchi used is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain eggs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider using fresh asparagus or peas for a seasonal twist, while in the fall, pumpkin or butternut squash can add a lovely sweetness. During winter, root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can enhance the heartiness of the soup.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.
- How long can I cook the soup? You can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy milk can be used as alternatives.
How To Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an inviting, creamy dish that brings a comforting warmth to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot.
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach.
- Add the gnocchi to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the gnocchi are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 478Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 135mgSodium 1103mgCarbohydrates 36gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 31g
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 delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table with minimal effort. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it to friends, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home. So grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen!