Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Bowl of slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup with fresh herbs

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables simmered together, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Just set it and forget it in your slow cooker, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you without much fuss.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 450
  • Protein: 36 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40 grams
  • Fat: 20 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Sugar: 3 grams
  • Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup brings warmth and comfort to any meal with its creamy texture and rich flavors. The slow cooking method allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste. It’s also a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze, and it’s both kid-friendly and adult-approved. Whether you need a cozy dinner on a cold night or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this soup checks all the boxes.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breasts
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Begin by placing the chicken breasts, diced carrots, celery, and onion into the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top and sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This combination of ingredients will create a flavorful base for your soup.

  • Step 2: Cooking

    Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a delicious scent!

  • Step 3: Shredding the Chicken

    Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the slow cooker.

  • Step 4: Adding Gnocchi and Spinach

    Add the gnocchi and spinach to the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This step allows the gnocchi to soften and absorb the lovely broth, while the spinach wilts perfectly.

  • Step 5: Finishing Touch

    Finally, stir in the heavy cream to give the soup its luscious, creamy consistency just before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serve this delightful soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra touch of flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs beautifully and allows you to soak up every bit of that creamy broth.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
  • If you want to lighten the dish, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a milk alternative.
  • Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or mushrooms would make great additions.

Delicious Variations

  • Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking for an aromatic lift.
  • Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just extend the cooking time by an hour or so.
  • Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free gnocchi, this soup can be made gluten-free.
  • Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup without the gnocchi. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add fresh gnocchi.
  • How can I make this soup healthier? Use low-sodium chicken broth and replace heavy cream with a reduced-fat option.
  • What’s the best type of gnocchi to use? Fresh or store-bought gnocchi both work well. Choose based on your preference.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that everyone will love. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect addition to your recipe rotation. So grab your slow cooker and enjoy this creamy, hearty meal that brings family and friends together with each delicious bite. Enjoy cooking!

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