Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Creamy Comfort Food Recipe

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, velvety broth.

The first time I made this soup, I was craving something warm and hearty but didn’t have the energy for a complicated meal. I tossed everything into my slow cooker, and by dinnertime, the house was filled with the most incredible aroma. It’s been a family favorite ever since!

My Take on Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something magical about a slow cooker meal, isn’t there? You get all the flavors of a dish that’s been simmering for hours, but with minimal effort. This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is exactly that a hassle-free, one-pot wonder that delivers big on flavor.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s inspired by the rich Tuscan flavors of Olive Garden’s chicken gnocchi soup but made even easier thanks to the crockpot. The creamy base pairs perfectly with the soft gnocchi, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens like spinach or kale for a wholesome touch. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this dish is like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a cozy, restaurant-quality meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 2 cups baby spinach or kale, roughly chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

You’ll also need a slow cooker and a whisk or small bowl for mixing the cream and cornstarch.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze! Here’s how I do it step by step:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by dicing your onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Soup Base

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and fork-tender by the end.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 5: Make It Creamy

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the crockpot, stirring well to combine.

Step 6: Add the Gnocchi and Spinach

Stir in the gnocchi and chopped spinach (or kale). Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high, until the gnocchi is tender and the soup is thickened.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• This soup is a meal in itself, but there are plenty of ways to make it even more special. I love serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is another great pairing—it balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
• For a heartier option, try adding a side of crispy fried chicken or roasted vegetables. And if you’re entertaining, this dish works wonderfully as part of a cozy soup and sandwich spread.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This soup stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the gnocchi, as it can become mushy) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook fresh gnocchi before serving.
• Reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Top Tips for Customizing Your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Swap the chicken: Don’t have chicken breasts? Use thighs for an even juicier result. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time just add it during the last hour of cooking.
2. Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream to make this soup dairy-free.
3. Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
4. Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Your Questions About Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Answered

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase the cooking time by about 1–2 hours on low to ensure it cooks through safely.

What is gnocchi, and where can I find it?

Gnocchi are soft, pillowy Italian dumplings often made from potatoes. You can find them in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores or in the refrigerated section near fresh pasta.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken and vegetables in a large pot over medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked. Then shred the chicken, add the cream and gnocchi, and simmer until tender.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute whole milk, but the soup will be less creamy. For a richer texture, consider adding a tablespoon of butter with the milk.

A comforting classic made easy!

This creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup is a simple, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want an easy family dinner, this recipe has you covered. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment below or share your photos on social media and tag WandaRecipes.com. And while you’re here, why not check out my other comforting soup recipes?

Happy cooking!