Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of soup—especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cozy, hearty recipe that brings together tender chunks of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, savory broth that’s infused with herbs and cream. Inspired by the popular Olive Garden version, this homemade version is even more flavorful and nourishing, with the added bonus of letting your crockpot do most of the work.

This soup is a perfect example of how slow cooking enhances flavor and simplifies meal prep. Simply toss in your ingredients in the morning, let it simmer low and slow throughout the day, and you’ll be rewarded with a thick, creamy soup that tastes like it’s been bubbling on the stove all day—without any of the hands-on time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or when you just want something warm and filling without the hassle. One spoonful and you’ll understand why this is such a beloved comfort food classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hands-Off Cooking – The crockpot does all the work, leaving you with more free time.
2. Creamy & Comforting – A rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for cold days or cozy evenings.
3. One-Pot Meal – Protein, carbs, and greens all in one satisfying bowl.
4. Family-Friendly – Mild, flavorful, and loved by kids and adults alike.
5. Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Potato gnocchi
• Fresh spinach
• Heavy cream
• Butter or olive oil
• Cornstarch or flour (optional for thickening)
• Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Variations

• Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Add Bacon: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and thickening agents.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, peas, or kale for more nutrition and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Base

Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the bottom of the crockpot. Place chicken on top.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Broth

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth to cover the ingredients.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the crockpot.

Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Cream

Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook on high for 30 minutes or until the gnocchi are tender.

Step 6: Stir in Spinach

Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Optional Thickening

If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water or flour and butter at this stage and cook an additional 10–15 minutes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi; frozen may need extra time to cook.
• Add spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and tender.
• Sear chicken before adding it to the crockpot for added flavor (optional).
• Stir gently after adding gnocchi to avoid breaking them up.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi—they’re best when just tender.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Pair with crusty bread, garlic toast, or breadsticks.
• Add a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Serve with a spoon and a smile—it’s comfort food at its best.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let soup cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in portions without the gnocchi for best texture. Add fresh gnocchi when reheating to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but thaw first or increase cooking time slightly so they fully soften.

2. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Absolutely—simmer in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes instead of using a crockpot.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well and flavors develop even more overnight.

4. How do I thicken the soup?

Use a cornstarch slurry or mix a small amount of flour with butter and stir it in.

5. Can I add cheese to the soup?

Yes—Parmesan, Asiago, or even cream cheese add extra creaminess and flavor.

6. What kind of chicken is best?

Breasts are lean, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful—both work well.

7. Is gnocchi pasta or potato?

Most gnocchi are made from potato and flour—chewy and satisfying in soups.

8. Can I add cream earlier in the cooking process?

It’s best to add cream at the end to prevent curdling or separation.

9. What if my gnocchi disintegrates?

Be careful not to overcook them—30 minutes is typically enough.

10. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Add it at the same time as the gnocchi since it’s already cooked.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—warm, rich, hearty, and easy. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of dish that becomes a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just stocking your fridge with comforting leftovers, this soup delivers every time. Once you try it, you’ll be craving another bowl before the first one’s finished.

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