Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. It's an easy throw-it-all-in-the-crockpot recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Hearty gnocchi that adds a satisfying bite
- Convenient slow-cooked meal with minimal effort
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits. This creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. Each spoonful envelops you in warmth, making it an ideal dish for those cold evenings when you want to snuggle up and relax.
The fusion of flavors in this soup creates a delightful experience that tantalizes your taste buds. The earthy notes of thyme and the freshness of spinach complement the creamy base, while the gnocchi adds a delightful texture that makes each bite satisfying. This soup is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl.
Effortless Meal Prep
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your crockpot and let it work its magic. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
You can also customize this soup according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or zucchini, or even swap the chicken for turkey or sausage. The versatility of this recipe ensures that you can enjoy it time and time again without growing bored.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by dicing the onion, carrots, celery, and mincing the garlic. Set aside.
Combine in the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and add the diced vegetables, garlic, thyme, and chicken broth.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Add Cream and Gnocchi
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Add the gnocchi and heavy cream, then stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Tips for the Best Soup
To ensure your soup has the best flavor, use high-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth or a good store-bought option can elevate the dish significantly. Additionally, don't rush the cooking process; allowing the chicken to cook low and slow not only makes it tender but also infuses the broth with rich flavors.
If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use a dairy-free alternative. This will still provide a creamy texture while reducing the richness. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, as the cream can mellow the flavors.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the soup even more delicious the next day. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the soup, as the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. However, it's best to freeze it before adding the gnocchi and cream. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, heat it on the stove, and then stir in the cream and gnocchi for a fresh, warm meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just add them to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crockpot and refrigerate it overnight before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Begin by dicing the onion, carrots, celery, and mincing the garlic. Set aside.
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and add the diced vegetables, garlic, thyme, and chicken broth.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Add the gnocchi and heavy cream, then stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g