If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach all swimming in a luscious, creamy broth that’s been simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. This dish not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will make it your new go-to soup for chilly evenings or any time you want a little extra comfort.

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to making this soup truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role— from the hearty chicken that adds satisfying protein to the delicate gnocchi that offers a soft, chewy bite. The fresh spinach brings a pop of color and freshness, while garlic and onion build a flavorful foundation. Together, these ingredients create a bowl of goodness that’s easy to assemble and utterly delicious.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein cooks tender and shreds beautifully in the slow cooker, soaking up all the broth’s flavors.
4 cups chicken broth: The rich base of the soup that ties all the ingredients together with warmth and depth.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that makes the soup silky and indulgent without overpowering the other flavors.
2 cups gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the broth for irresistible texture and comfort.
1 cup spinach, chopped: Fresh greens that add a pop of vibrant color and a nutritious touch to every spoonful.
1 onion, diced: Builds a savory flavor foundation, giving the broth a slight sweetness and depth.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory kick that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that balance and highlight the natural flavors in the soup.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Assemble and Cook the Base

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the Crockpot, then add the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. This simple combination forms the heart of your soup. Set your slow cooker to low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become tender enough to shred easily.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken and Add Creamy Elements

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot, then stir in the gnocchi, chopped spinach, and heavy cream. These additions transform the soup into a creamy, hearty dish with delightful pops of green from the spinach and soft pillows of gnocchi.

Step 3: Final Simmer for Perfect Texture

Let everything cook together for another 20 to 30 minutes. This step allows the gnocchi to soften just right and the spinach to wilt gently into the creamy broth. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as needed — seasoning is key to making your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup truly sing.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. These garnishes add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal that will elevate each serving. A drizzle of olive oil or a bit of cracked black pepper can also enhance the final presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Serve this comforting soup alongside crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last delicious drop. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the soup’s richness and balance your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible, hearty presentation. Alternatively, garnish individual servings with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. These small touches make serving Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup feel special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.

Freezing

If you want to save some for another time, this soup freezes well without losing flavor. Leave out the heavy cream before freezing and add it fresh when reheating for the best texture. Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for convenient meals later on.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add the heavy cream after the soup is warmed through if you froze it separately. This method keeps the soup creamy and smooth without curdling or separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly. It may take an extra 30 minutes or so on low, but the slow cooker handles it beautifully.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, canned coconut milk is an interesting twist that adds mild sweetness and creaminess.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a Crockpot?

Absolutely! Start by cooking the chicken, onion, and garlic in a large pot with broth. Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, add the remaining ingredients and simmer until the gnocchi is tender and spinach is wilted.

What type of gnocchi works best? Fresh or frozen?

Both fresh and frozen gnocchi are great options. Just remember that frozen gnocchi might need a little extra time to fully cook in the Crockpot, so be patient during the final simmering step.

Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep because it holds up well in the refrigerator and freezes nicely. Just portion it out and enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup has quickly become one of my favorite recipes to share because it’s simple, hearty, and utterly comforting. The ease of the slow cooker combined with fresh ingredients makes it a winner for any occasion. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over, just like I do. Trust me, once you experience this creamy, flavorful bowl of goodness, it’ll become a fixture in your kitchen too.