Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This soup is a staple in our home during the colder months. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the addition of gnocchi makes it a hearty meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Convenient one-pot meal, perfect for busy days
- Comfort food that the whole family will enjoy
A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you're serving it on a chilly evening or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi creates a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy broth.
This soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. It's an excellent choice for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even as a comforting dish to share with friends. The ease of preparation allows you to enjoy the company of your loved ones while the crockpot does the hard work.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its comforting taste, this soup is packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced meal. The addition of fresh spinach and vegetables like carrots and celery provides essential vitamins and minerals. Spinach is particularly rich in iron and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts not only keeps the dish lean but also ensures a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. Paired with the carbohydrates from gnocchi, this soup offers a satisfying combination that fuels your body and keeps you energized throughout the day.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its flexibility. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version.
Adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, can enhance the flavor and nutritional content. For those who enjoy a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a canvas for your culinary creativity.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
In your crockpot, add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Cream and Gnocchi
Stir in the heavy cream and frozen gnocchi. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender.
Add Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach just before serving, allowing it to wilt.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy soup!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This soup tends to thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through. This dish maintains its flavor well, so you can enjoy it just as much the second time around!
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving the creamy soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup beautifully. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
For those looking to elevate the dining experience, pair your soup with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which can enhance the creamy flavors of the dish. With these serving suggestions, your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be transformed into an impressive meal for any occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to omit the cream if you plan to freeze it, and add it when reheating.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Set aside.
In your crockpot, add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in the heavy cream and frozen gnocchi. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender.
Stir in the fresh spinach just before serving, allowing it to wilt.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g