Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tender chicken and potato gnocchi come together in this Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup, creating a rich and creamy broth that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup brings warmth and comfort to your table. Its ease of preparation and delightful flavors make it an instant favorite among comfort food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
• Hearty Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and creamy texture makes every spoonful satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, freeze leftovers, and enjoy this comforting soup any day of the week.
• Kid-Friendly Dish: With its mild flavors, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving that deep flavor while cooking slowly over several hours.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients without fuss.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables, making prep quick and easy.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Tender chicken and potato gnocchi in a rich, creamy broth with fresh vegetables. An easy slow cooker comfort food favorite!

For the Chicken Base

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken base (optional)

For the Vegetables

• 3-4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1-2 stalks celery, chopped
• ½ medium yellow or white onion, chopped
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups baby spinach

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Broth

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock

For Creaminess

• 1 cup cream or half and half
• 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch

Optional Topping

• 4 slices cooked Turkey Bacon, crumbled (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by adding your chicken thighs or breasts into the slow cooker along with chopped carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, and seasonings.

Step 2: Add Broth and Cook

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock over all ingredients. Stir gently to combine. Cover the slow cooker lid tightly. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooking time is complete, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks until it’s fully broken apart.

Step 4: Incorporate Creaminess

In a separate mixing bowl, combine your cream with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker along with potato gnocchi and baby spinach. Cook everything on high for another 30-45 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

If you prefer a thicker soup, mix more cornstarch with cold water before adding it into the pot. Taste your soup one last time to adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls. If desired, top each serving with crumbled Turkey Bacon for added flavor! Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that invites warmth and comfort to your table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette for dipping. Its crunchy texture complements the soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with cheesy garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cheese: Grate Parmesan cheese over the soup before serving for a savory finish.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal.

Make it a Meal

• Turkey Bacon Crumbles: Top your soup with crumbled turkey bacon for added texture and flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus to increase your vegetable intake.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Stock: Start with high-quality low-sodium chicken stock for deeper flavor in your soup.
• Shred Chicken Well: Shredding the chicken thoroughly helps distribute the meat evenly throughout the soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix additional cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the pot.
• Season to Taste: Always taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, and seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
• Add Fresh Spinach Last: Adding spinach towards the end preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Complementing your Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup with side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal vegetables and roast them until caramelized; they add great flavor contrast.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or veggies offer a nutritious complement to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and lemon dressing brings freshness to the table.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an inviting option that balances the savory notes of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you make the best Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup possible. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Frozen Vegetables – Fresh vegetables provide better flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh, chopped veggies for a tastier result.
• Skipping the Seasoning – Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a delicious broth.
• Not Shredding the Chicken – Shredding the chicken allows it to mix well with the soup. Make sure to shred it thoroughly after cooking.
• Adding Gnocchi Too Early – If you add gnocchi too soon, they can become mushy. Wait until the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to add them.
• Not Adjusting Consistency – If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it with cornstarch. Always taste and adjust as needed before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

It takes about 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the slow cooker.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if desired.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Check your gnocchi brand; some may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free options if necessary.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out spices based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness any day of the week!