Warm and Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a warm meal waiting for you. If you’ve ever wished for a hearty, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself, Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer to your busy days and chilly nights. This slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup combines tender shredded chicken, creamy broth, and soft potato gnocchi, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With simple ingredients like onion, celery, and carrots paired with chicken breasts or boneless skinless chicken thighs, this recipe is perfect for families craving a homemade favorite without spending hours in the kitchen.

Next, imagine curling up with a bowl of this rich, creamy soup that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant. The Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup has nothing on this homemade version! It’s versatile, wholesome, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, you can thicken up the soup with a cornstarch slurry or add frozen gnocchi for a quick twist. Ready to discover how to cook on high and create this magic? Continue reading to find the complete recipe card and easy step-by-step instructions. You’re going to love this!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple, hearty ingredients that come together effortlessly.

• Chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These are the stars of the dish. They cook until tender, then shred beautifully to create the perfect base for the soup.
• Potato gnocchi – These soft, pillowy dumplings soak up the flavors of the broth, making every bite irresistible. Frozen gnocchi works just as well if you’re in a pinch!
• Onion, celery, and carrots – Known as the “holy trinity” of soups, these veggies bring depth, color, and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
• Chicken broth – This savory liquid ties everything together, adding richness and warmth to every spoonful.
• Heavy cream – It makes the soup creamy and indulgent, giving it that Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup feel.
• Cornstarch slurry – A quick mix of cornstarch and water thickens up the soup for the perfect consistency.
• Salt and pepper – These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of every ingredient.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prep the Ingredients First chop the onion, celery, and carrots into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup.

• Add Everything to the Slow Cooker Next, place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables on top, followed by the chicken broth. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

• Cover and Cook Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Shred the Chicken and Add Gnocchi Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the slow cooker, shred it, and return it to the pot. Then, add the potato gnocchi and cook for another 30 minutes.

• Thicken and Add Cream In the final 10 minutes, stir in the heavy cream and a cornstarch slurry to thicken up the soup. Stir gently to combine.

Serving

This recipe serves 6–8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

• How to serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it on its own, or pair it with crusty bread for dipping.
• Optional garnishes: Top with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Fun twist: For extra texture, try adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Tips and Hacks

Make your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup even better with these simple tips:

• Tip 1: Use frozen gnocchi if you’re short on time. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Tip 2: For extra richness, swap some chicken broth for milk or additional cream.
• Tip 3: Add fresh spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Tip 4: Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
Calories: 320
Fat: 16g
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 2g

Please note: These values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Prep Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Please note: These times are estimates and may vary depending on your slow cooker and chopping speed.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfect for Cozy Family Dinners

There’s something magical about sitting down to a warm, creamy bowl of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup with your loved ones. The tender shredded chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and perfectly seasoned broth create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s filling, easy to make, and even picky eaters can’t resist its comforting flavors. First, the simple ingredients like chicken breasts, onion, celery, and carrots make it approachable.

Then, with a few hours of cooking time in your slow cooker, it’s ready to serve without constant supervision. Also, this chicken gnocchi soup recipe is versatile—you can change it up based on what you have in your kitchen. Whether it’s a Sunday family meal or a weekday dinner, this dish fits every occasion. You’re going to love how easy it is to create this delicious soup with minimal effort!

A One-Pot Meal for Busy Days

When life gets hectic, a one-pot meal like Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be a lifesaver. With everything cooking together in your slow cooker, there’s no need to juggle multiple pots and pans. Simply add the chicken, vegetables, and chicken broth, cover, and cook. First, toss in the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes to keep it soft and fluffy. Next, if you prefer a thicker consistency, a quick cornstarch slurry will do the trick. This slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup is ideal for busy families because it’s hearty, nutritious, and reheats beautifully for leftovers. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Ingredient	When to Add	Notes
Chicken breasts	At the beginning	Use boneless, skinless thighs as an option.
Onion, celery, carrots	At the beginning	Dice evenly for consistent cooking.
Potato gnocchi	Last 30 minutes	Use frozen gnocchi if needed.
Heavy cream	At the end	Adds richness and creaminess.

With this recipe, dinner is a breeze even on your busiest days!

Essential Tools for Making the Best Crockpot Soup

Slow Cooker Tips for Even Cooking

Getting the best results from your slow cooker is all about timing and layering. For Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, start by placing the chicken on the bottom for even cooking. Then, layer your vegetables like onion, celery, and carrots on top. Next, pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered. This helps distribute the flavors evenly. Also, avoid lifting the lid too often—this lets the heat escape and increases cooking time. Cooking on high for about 3–4 hours is perfect if you’re short on time, but low for 6–8 hours brings out even more flavor. Stir occasionally during the last hour to blend everything together.

Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets for Simplifying Prep

Preparing Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier with the right tools. These gadgets save time and effort:

• Sharp chef’s knife: For quick and even chopping of vegetables like onion, celery, and carrots.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface ensures safer and faster prep.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To get the perfect balance of ingredients like chicken broth and heavy cream.
• Mixing bowl: Handy for making a cornstarch slurry to thicken up the soup.
• Immersion blender (optional): For blending some of the soup if you prefer a smoother texture.

These tools help you breeze through prep and ensure your soup is as flavorful and creamy as possible.

Variations to Customize Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Dairy-Free and Lighter Alternatives

Looking for a healthier twist on Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup? You’re in luck! First, swap out heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option. These substitutes still create a creamy consistency without the extra calories. Also, you can replace traditional potato gnocchi with gluten-free or whole wheat gnocchi to match your dietary needs. To lighten the recipe even more, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs—they’re leaner but still full of flavor. If you want to skip the cream altogether, use additional chicken broth for a lighter soup base. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Ingredient	Substitute	Notes
Heavy cream	Coconut milk	Adds creaminess without dairy.
Potato gnocchi	Gluten-free gnocchi	Perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Chicken thighs	Lean chicken breasts	Lower in fat but still tasty.

These small tweaks make the recipe perfect for everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.

Adding Seasonal Vegetables for Extra Flavor

One of the best parts about Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how easy it is to adapt. Next time, try adding seasonal vegetables for a new twist. For example, in the fall, toss in diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes. In the spring, you can add fresh spinach or peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking. These additions not only make the soup more colorful but also add extra nutrients. For a summer variation, try zucchini or bell peppers—they bring a fresh, light flavor to the dish.

Here are some ideas:

• Fall: Butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or parsnips.
• Spring: Fresh peas, asparagus, or spinach.
• Summer: Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.

Adding veggies is an easy way to keep this chicken gnocchi soup recipe exciting and full of surprises!

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers Without Losing Flavor

Leftover Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just as delicious as the day you made it! First, allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Next, refrigerate it for up to 3–4 days. To keep the gnocchi from becoming mushy, store it separately if possible. When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Also, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream helps restore its creamy consistency. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving is another quick option—just stir occasionally to avoid uneven heating.

The Best Way to Freeze and Reheat Gnocchi Soup

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze with these tips:

• Cool Completely: Let the soup cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Portion Wisely: Freeze in individual servings for easy reheating.
• Label Clearly: Add the date to avoid freezer mystery meals.
• Reheat Slowly: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

This makes meal prep simple and ensures you always have a comforting bowl of soup ready when you need it!

Pairing Ideas to Complete Your Meal

The Best Bread and Side Dishes for Gnocchi Soup

Pairing your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup with the right sides can elevate your meal. Fresh, crusty bread is always a top choice—it’s perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. You can try sourdough, garlic bread, or even a soft dinner roll. First, consider pairing the soup with a crisp garden salad. It adds a fresh, crunchy element to balance the creamy texture of the soup. Next, roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, are excellent complements. They add vibrant color and a healthy touch. If you’re craving something extra, cheesy breadsticks or buttery biscuits are sure to please.

Here’s a quick list of perfect sides:

• Breads: Sourdough, garlic bread, or dinner rolls.
• Salads: Caesar salad or simple mixed greens.
• Veggies: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.

Side Dish	Type	Why It Works
Sourdough Bread	Crusty Bread	Great for soaking up the broth.
Garden Salad	Fresh & Crunchy	Balances the creaminess.
Roasted Veggies	Healthy Option	Adds color and nutrition.

Drinks That Complement Creamy Soups

A creamy soup like Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. First, a chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime keeps the meal light and refreshing. For something warm, herbal teas like chamomile or green tea provide a soothing contrast. Next, consider pairing the soup with a mildly sweet drink, such as apple cider or a non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice. These add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors. If you want something extra special, a creamy hot chocolate or a spiced chai latte is a cozy option for winter evenings.

Drink	Temperature	Why It Complements Soup
Sparkling Water	Cold	Refreshing and palate-cleansing.
Herbal Tea	Warm	A soothing and gentle pairing.
Apple Cider	Cold or Warm	Adds a touch of sweetness.

These pairing options make your meal complete, satisfying both your hunger and thirst!

For a seamless pairing with another hearty soup recipe, try our Simple Chicken Tortilla Soup (Low Sodium) Recipe. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for those looking for a lighter option!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

can you put gnocchi in a slow cooker​?

Yes, you can absolutely put gnocchi in a slow cooker! Add potato gnocchi toward the end of the cooking time, about 30 minutes before serving. This prevents the gnocchi from getting too soft or mushy. First, let your soup develop its flavors, then toss in the gnocchi. It will cook perfectly in the hot broth and absorb all the delicious flavors.

how long to cook gnocchi in crock pot?

Gnocchi only takes about 20–30 minutes to cook in a crock pot. Add it toward the end of the cooking process, after the soup has simmered and developed its flavors. First, check the gnocchi for softness after 20 minutes. If it’s tender and fluffy, it’s ready to serve. This ensures the gnocchi stays delicious without overcooking or falling apart.

how long to cook gnocchi in slow cooker with sauce?

When cooking gnocchi in a slow cooker with sauce, 20–30 minutes is perfect. Add the gnocchi toward the end, after your sauce or soup base has simmered. Cover and cook until the gnocchi absorbs the flavors but stays tender. First, give it a quick stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. This method keeps the gnocchi soft and flavorful without becoming too mushy.

can you use skillet gnocchi in soup?

Yes, skillet gnocchi works wonderfully in soup! It’s pre-packaged and doesn’t require boiling, so it’s very convenient. Add it to your slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup in the last 20 minutes of cooking. Skillet gnocchi holds its shape well and adds a slightly firmer texture to the dish. First, stir gently to combine, then let it soak up the flavorful broth. It’s a great option!

A Delicious Bowl of Comfort for Any Occasion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any day. It’s warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. First, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients like chicken, potato gnocchi, and fresh vegetables. Next, it’s perfect for feeding your family or impressing guests at dinner.

This recipe lets you enjoy a homemade classic with minimal effort. Also, it’s versatile, so you can change it up however you like. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish always hits the spot. Pair it with crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal. You’re going to love how this soup brings everyone together at the table. So, grab your slow cooker and give it a try. With this Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, every spoonful feels like a warm hug in a bowl!