Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485145H11M13S
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), uncooked; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1 package (16 oz/450g) potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk for lighter version); ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening); 3 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

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Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a favorite among home cooks for its simplicity and hearty texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping for a week of meals, it delivers big on taste with minimal effort.

Origin and Popularity

Inspired by the classic soup served at Olive Garden, this homemade version has gained popularity for being both economical and customizable. Its Italian roots shine through the pillowy gnocchi, aromatic herbs, and creamy broth.

Ingredients Overview

Fresh Ingredients

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are preferred for tenderness and ease of shredding.

Gnocchi

Soft potato-based pasta that thickens the soup and adds a satisfying, chewy bite.

Vegetables and Herbs

Chopped onions, celery, carrots, and fresh spinach lend both flavor and nutrients.

Pantry Staples

Chicken broth or stock
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Slow cooker (6-quart preferred)
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or ladle
Small bowl for cream mix

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Dice the onions, carrots, and celery. Place them in the bottom of your slow cooker along with whole chicken breasts and minced garlic.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Base

Pour in the chicken broth, season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours.

Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Cream

Remove the cooked chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the gnocchi and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Mix in heavy cream and fresh spinach just before serving.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Taste for seasoning adjustments. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parmesan or parsley.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup

Thickening the Soup

If the soup is too thin, make a slurry using cornstarch and cold water and stir it in during the final 15 minutes.

Enhancing the Flavor

Sauté the vegetables briefly before slow cooking to unlock deeper flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
Add mushrooms for umami depth.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh side salad.

Presentation Tips

Garnish with cracked black pepper, parmesan shavings, and a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-style touch.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months (note: gnocchi may soften slightly).

Reheating Instructions

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking gnocchi: Add gnocchi at the end to avoid mushy texture.
Skipping the cream: The richness balances the saltiness and herbs.
Neglecting seasoning: Always taste and adjust before serving.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Chicken: High-quality lean protein.
Spinach: Rich in iron and vitamins A and C.
Carrots and celery: High in antioxidants and fiber.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup proves that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. Whether you’re craving a bowl of warmth on a rainy evening or planning ahead for a week’s worth of delicious lunches, this soup covers all bases. Its creamy texture, savory aroma, and satisfying depth of flavor make it a dependable go-to recipe in any home cook’s rotation.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works just fine. Add them straight from the freezer during the final 30 minutes of cooking.

2. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free alternative, though flavor and thickness may vary.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just ensure you use gluten-free gnocchi and broth.

4. How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
Add a bit of extra broth or water during reheating, especially if storing leftovers.

5. What can I use instead of chicken?
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use white beans or mushrooms for protein and texture.

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup