Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich, creamy, and soul-warming dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Inspired by the popular Olive Garden version, this homemade take uses simple, wholesome ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker to deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Tender chunks of chicken, pillowy soft gnocchi, and a flavorful medley of vegetables all come together in a velvety broth that’s infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream. It’s a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

This soup is perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or when you need a satisfying meal that practically makes itself. Just throw everything into the crockpot and let it simmer to perfection while you go about your day. Unlike some soups that require constant stirring or stovetop babysitting, this one is beautifully hands-off. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or to fit specific dietary needs. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a complete dinner with a slice of crusty bread, Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Comfort Food – Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work—no need to hover over the stove.
2. Family Favorite – Creamy, flavorful, and filling—kids and adults alike will ask for seconds.
3. Restaurant-Style at Home – Enjoy a cozy version of a beloved restaurant soup without leaving your kitchen.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes a generous batch that reheats well for lunches or busy nights.
5. Easy to Customize – Swap in different veggies, herbs, or even protein for a twist that suits your tastes.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Gnocchi
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Spinach
• Heavy cream
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil or butter (optional for sautéing)

Variations

• Lightened-Up Version – Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Dairy-Free – Substitute with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Vegetarian Option – Omit chicken and use vegetable broth; add mushrooms or chickpeas for substance.
• Add Extra Veggies – Try mushrooms, zucchini, corn, or peas for extra color and flavor.
• Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Dice the carrots, celery, onion, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Crockpot

Place the chicken, chopped vegetables, garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

Stir in the gnocchi and spinach. Cook on high for 30 minutes or until the gnocchi is tender.

Step 6: Add Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat through for another 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Sautéing the veggies before adding can enhance flavor, but it’s optional.
• Use refrigerated or shelf-stable gnocchi—they cook up perfectly in the soup.
• Stir in the cream at the end to prevent curdling or separation.
• Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Add spinach at the end so it wilts but retains its color and texture.

How to Serve

• With Crusty Bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy broth.
• Topped with Cheese – Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for added richness.
• With a Side Salad – Pair with a light green salad to balance the richness.
• As a Starter – Serve smaller portions as a cozy appetizer before a main dish.
• In a Bread Bowl – For a restaurant-style presentation, serve in hollowed-out bread bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool soup completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Cream-based soups can separate when frozen, but you can freeze the soup before adding the cream. Add the cream after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Stir frequently and avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last hour of cooking instead of raw chicken.

2. Will frozen gnocchi work?

Yes, just add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. No need to thaw first.

3. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead?

Absolutely—simmer everything in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes, then add gnocchi and cream at the end.

4. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the soup.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth and seasonings are also gluten-free.

6. Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the soup may be less rich and creamy. Whole milk or half-and-half are better choices.

7. How do I thicken the soup?

If you want a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in before adding the cream.

8. What kind of gnocchi should I use?

Refrigerated, frozen, or shelf-stable potato gnocchi all work well—just adjust cooking time as needed.

9. Can I add cheese to the soup?

Definitely! Stir in shredded Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses for added depth.

10. How can I make it more flavorful?

Add a splash of white wine or a parmesan rind while cooking, or season more generously with herbs and garlic.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal—rich, hearty, and satisfying, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and pillowy gnocchi, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl that tastes like it took all day to make (even though the crockpot did all the work). Whether you’re serving it up for family dinner, sharing with guests, or prepping ahead for the week, this cozy favorite is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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