Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the classic Olive Garden favorite right into your home. It's packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, velvety broth. The best part? It's made effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal prep and cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 and ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 3–4 medium whole carrots, peeled and chopped

• 1–2 stalks celery, chopped

• ½ medium yellow or white onion, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base (optional)

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth

• 1 cup cream or half and half

• 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 pound potato gnocchi

• 3 cups baby spinach

• Cooked ground beef (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large slow cooker.

2. Add the Better than Bouillon paste and red pepper flakes, if using.

3. Pour the chicken stock or broth over the ingredients and stir gently to combine.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

5. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the cream (or half and half) and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the soup.

7. Add the gnocchi and spinach, stirring well.

8. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30–45 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender and the soup has thickened.

9. If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk together an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cool water, then stir this slurry into the soup.

10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

11. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with cooked ground beef, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 4 hours on high

• Additional Cooking Time: 30–45 minutes after adding gnocchi and spinach

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the soup for some heat.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute in place of the cream or half and half.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, the gnocchi may become soft upon reheating. If freezing, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and adding them after reheating the soup.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup to increase the heat level.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing, and they will cook during the final 30–45 minutes.

Is there a substitute for Better than Bouillon?

If you don't have Better than Bouillon, you can use an extra ¼ to ½ teaspoon of salt or a bouillon cube dissolved in water.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs. Monitor the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this soup gluten-free?

The soup is gluten-free if you use gluten-free gnocchi. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cream substitute, such as coconut cream, in place of the cream or half and half.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the gnocchi and spinach. Refrigerate and add those ingredients when you're ready to finish cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this soup delivers on all fronts. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!