Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that's perfect for chilly evenings.
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a family favorite, bringing together tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a luscious cream base for a dish that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Hearty and filling, perfect for dinner
- Easy to make with minimal prep work
- A great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken
A Cozy Meal for Any Occasion
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Ideal for chilly evenings, this dish delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that makes it perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables creates a hearty soup that everyone will love.
Not only is this soup delicious, but it also caters to a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or a light lunch, this recipe can be easily adjusted to fit your needs. Pair it with a crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Simple Steps for a Delicious Dinner
One of the best aspects of this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can throw everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic. This hands-off approach means you can spend more time enjoying your evening while the flavors meld together beautifully. It's a great solution for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
The layering of ingredients in the crockpot not only maximizes flavor but also ensures that each component is perfectly cooked. From the tender chicken to the succulent gnocchi, every bite is a delightful combination of taste and texture. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can come home to a warm, inviting meal that’s ready to serve.
Customizing Your Soup
While this recipe is delicious as is, it’s also versatile enough to allow for personal touches. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or coconut milk, if you prefer a healthier option.
If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary to find your perfect flavor profile. This soup is a blank canvas, and you’re the artist!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.
Add Vegetables
Layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
Pour in Broth
Add the chicken broth into the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
Shred the Chicken
After cooking, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Add Gnocchi and Cream
Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until gnocchi is cooked.
Finish with Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Enjoy the soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re in luck! This soup stores beautifully and can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing to maintain freshness and flavor.
To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have a comforting dish ready to go throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
When it comes to pairing your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the soup. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad complements the dish perfectly and adds a refreshing touch to your meal.
For those who enjoy wine, a glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs well with the creamy texture of the soup, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a sparkling water with a hint of lemon can also be a delightful choice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the soup without thawing.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup the night before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that's perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.
Layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
Add the chicken broth into the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
After cooking, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until gnocchi is cooked.
Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g