Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tender chicken and potato gnocchi come together in this Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly day or an easy dinner option for busy weeknights, this creamy soup has you covered. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken, veggies, and spices creates a deliciously rich broth.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or served with crusty bread for dipping.
• Comforting: Creamy textures and hearty ingredients make this soup a warm hug in a bowl.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will make your time in the kitchen enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, making meal prep simple.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient chopping of vegetables, saving you time.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

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

For the Soup Base

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3-4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1-2 stalks celery, chopped
• ½ medium yellow or white onion, chopped
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Broth

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken base (optional)
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

For Creaminess

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

For Serving (Optional)

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 4 slices cooked Turkey Bacon, crumbled (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Add your chicken, veggies (carrots, celery, onion), parsley, garlic, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Stir in the bouillon and pepper flakes if using.

Step 2: Add Stock

Pour in that chicken stock and give it a gentle stir. Cover and let it cook away—6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

Once time’s up, shred that chicken right in the pot using two forks.

Step 4: Creamy Mixture

Mix your cream with cornstarch. Add it to the pot along with the gnocchi and spinach. Cook on high for another 30-45 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Adjust Thickness

If you want it thicker, add more cornstarch mixed with cold water. Give it a final taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled Turkey Bacon if you like! Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is simple and rewarding. This creamy dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to enhance the meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A hearty, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with extra fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor that elevates the soup.

Next to a Simple Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

Paired with Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying addition that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.

With Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your soup, enhancing its overall taste and quality.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix more cornstarch with cold water and stir it in towards the end of cooking.

• Season Gradually: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary. Each ingredient can vary in taste, so add salt and pepper gradually.

• Shred Chicken Properly: Shred your chicken while it’s still hot for easier handling and better incorporation into the soup.

• Cook Low and Slow: For maximum flavor development, cook on low heat for 6-8 hours instead of rushing it on high heat.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preferences for added nutrition and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuit – Fluffy biscuits with cheese make a hearty accompaniment that’s great for dipping.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy counterpart that balances out the creaminess of the soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer an interesting texture alongside your soup.
8. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with savory dishes like gnocchi soup, adding warmth and sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or herbs can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Overcrowding with veggies: Adding too many vegetables can dilute the flavor and texture. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Not shredding chicken properly: Failing to shred the chicken can result in large chunks that are hard to eat. Use two forks for even shreds directly in the pot.
• Ignoring the cream mixture: Adding cream without mixing it with cornstarch can cause curdling. Always mix them well before incorporating into the soup.
• Cooking on high too long: Cooking for too long on high heat can overcook ingredients. Follow timing guidelines closely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; however, gnocchi may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I make this soup healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cream or swapping it out with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrients and flavor depth.

How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What if my gnocchi gets mushy?

To prevent mushy gnocchi, try adding them later in the cooking process, about halfway through the final cook time.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and flavorful gnocchi in a creamy broth. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Give it a try for an easy dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!