Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful and creamy dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying meal. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together while you go about your day, returning home to an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
A Personal Story Behind My Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Journey
Growing up, soup was always a staple in my household, especially during the colder months. My mother often made a variety of soups, but there was something particularly special about her chicken and gnocchi version. This recipe has been handed down through generations, and I cherish the moments spent around the dinner table, enjoying a warm bowl of soup with family. Now, I’m excited to share this comforting recipe with you!
What Makes This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Special?
What sets this Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup apart is its rich, creamy texture combined with tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi. The slow cooking process allows the vegetables to soften and infuse their flavors into the broth, creating a depth of taste that is truly comforting. Additionally, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Plus, you can customize it with different vegetables or seasonings to suit your preferences.
The Full Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 3 cups small gnocchi
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by placing a Reynolds Kitchens® Slow Cooker Liner in your 4-6 quart slow cooker for easy cleanup.
- Add the chopped celery, carrot, onion, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Gently place the chicken breasts into the mixture, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks or remove it to a cutting board to chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and corn starch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup along with the gnocchi. Cover and cook on high for an additional hour, until the gnocchi are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting bowl of soup!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup is perfect on its own, but you can easily elevate it with a few serving suggestions. Consider adding a slice of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad on the side. For a heartier soup, feel free to add more vegetables like peas or corn. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. Another great variation is to sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the gnocchi may become mushy once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the gnocchi fresh when you reheat the soup.
What can I use instead of chicken breasts?
You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids. You can also add extra veggies to sneak in some nutrients without them noticing.
Enjoy this comforting and creamy chicken gnocchi soup, perfect for any day of the week!
Recipe Stats:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
- Servings: 6
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Equipment
- Slow Cooker 4-6 quart slow cooker recommended.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
- 0.5 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 3 cups small gnocchi
- 1.5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by placing a Reynolds Kitchens® Slow Cooker Liner in your 4-6 quart slow cooker for easy cleanup.
- Add the chopped celery, carrot, onion, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Gently place the chicken breasts into the mixture, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks or remove it to a cutting board to chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and corn starch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup along with the gnocchi. Cover and cook on high for an additional hour, until the gnocchi are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting bowl of soup!