Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you want a satisfying, homemade soup with minimal effort. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs or breasts with a medley of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. The addition of potato gnocchi makes this soup uniquely comforting, providing a pillowy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth. Fresh herbs, garlic, and subtle spices add depth, while baby spinach or kale bring a touch of color and nutrition. Topped with crispy prosciutto and freshly grated Parmesan, this soup offers a wonderful balance of rich, savory, and fresh flavors. Made entirely in the crockpot, it’s a perfect make-ahead meal that develops incredible flavor over hours of slow cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is both elegant and rustic, pleasing everyone at the table with its layers of taste and texture. Whether you’re a soup lover or new to slow cooker recipes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and creamy with tender chicken and soft gnocchi.
2. Made entirely in the crockpot for easy, hands-off cooking.
3. Packed with nutritious vegetables and fresh herbs.
4. Perfect balance of hearty and light, with fresh spinach or kale.
5. Elegant toppings like prosciutto and Parmesan elevate the dish.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Carrots, small diced
• White onion, small diced
• Celery, small diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Herbes de Provence or poultry seasoning
• Paprika
• Red pepper chili flakes (optional)
• Chicken bouillon or bouillon cube
• Garlic cloves, pressed
• Chicken stock or broth
• Salt and pepper
• Potato gnocchi
• Cornstarch
• Half and half or heavy cream
• Baby spinach or curly kale, chopped
• Fresh Parmesan, for garnish
• Prosciutto

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra vegetables or beans.
• Spicy: Increase red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Cheesy: Stir in extra Parmesan or a bit of cream cheese for more richness.
• Herb Options: Substitute herbes de Provence with Italian seasoning or fresh thyme.
• Green Veggies: Use kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens instead of spinach.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Place the chicken thighs or breasts, diced carrots, onion, celery, chopped parsley, herbes de Provence, paprika, red chili flakes (if using), chicken bouillon, pressed garlic, chicken stock, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 3

Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with half and half or heavy cream until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the crockpot to thicken the soup.

Step 5

Add the gnocchi and baby spinach or kale to the crockpot. Cover and cook for another 20-30 minutes on high until gnocchi are tender and greens are wilted.

Step 6

While the soup finishes, crisp the prosciutto in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 7

Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy prosciutto and freshly grated Parmesan.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat, but breasts work well too.
• Don’t overcook gnocchi; add them toward the end to prevent mushiness.
• Stir the cornstarch mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps.
• Season generously with salt to bring out all the flavors.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best garnish flavor.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls with extra Parmesan on the side.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls for dipping.
• Garnish with additional fresh parsley or chives for color.
• Offer a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• This soup makes a great lunch or a comforting dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool soup completely and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze soup without the gnocchi to avoid texture changes. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or cream if soup thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but may be less juicy than thighs.

2. Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried?

Yes, but reduce dried herbs by half if substituting with fresh.

3. What can I do if I don’t have gnocchi?

Use small pasta like tortellini or omit entirely and add extra vegetables.

4. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble in the crockpot the night before and refrigerate, then cook the next day.

5. Is this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free cream alternatives and omit Parmesan.

6. How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild; add more chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.

7. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for initial cooking and pressure cook for about 15 minutes.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas would be great additions.

9. How do I store leftover soup with gnocchi?

It’s best to store soup and gnocchi separately if freezing to prevent sogginess.

10. How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?

About 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting, and easy slow cooker meal that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and pillowy gnocchi in a flavorful broth. The simple preparation and slow cooking make it perfect for busy days, while the crispy prosciutto and Parmesan elevate this rustic soup to something special. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of comfort or looking to impress family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to in your kitchen.

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