Wrap yourself in warmth with this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a comforting bowl that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Every spoonful delivers a perfect blend of creamy texture and hearty ingredients, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a satisfying, soul-soothing meal. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, this soup will quickly become your go-to comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Silky, Creamy Broth: Rich and velvety, perfectly coating each tender gnocchi and bite of chicken.
Soft & Pillowy Gnocchi: Adds a delightful texture that’s more comforting than traditional pasta.
Hearty & Nourishing: Loaded with chicken and fresh veggies for a balanced, wholesome meal.
Simple to Make: Minimal effort with maximum cozy flavor payoff.
Perfect for Any Season: Equally satisfying on cold days or when you just need a comforting pick-me-up!
Ingredients
Stock your countertop with these culinary essentials.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a rich flavor to the veggies.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the soup.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
Carrots: Sliced carrots contribute a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery: This crunchy veggie adds a refreshing crunch and balances the flavors.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that infuses the soup with earthy notes.
Dried oregano: This herb complements the thyme, giving a hint of Italian flair.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the soup.
Chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a savory base that ties everything together.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and indulgent.
Gnocchi: These little dumplings are the star of the show, adding a delightful texture.
Fresh spinach: A handful of spinach adds color and nutrition, making the soup even better.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish.
Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds zing.
Feel free to get creative!
You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version or toss in other veggies like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Creating this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze, especially with the slow cooker doing most of the heavy lifting.
Let’s break it down step by step, so you can enjoy this cozy delight without any fuss.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in your slow cooker on the sauté setting, if available.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them sizzle for a minute.
Then, toss in the sliced carrots and celery.
Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma.
This step lays the foundation for a flavorful soup.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, stir in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
These seasonings are the secret to elevating the soup’s flavor profile.
Mix them well with the sautéed vegetables, allowing the herbs to release their fragrant oils.
This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now, pour in the chicken broth and gently place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the pot.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The chicken will become tender and juicy, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
You can go about your day while the slow cooker works its magic!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker.
Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, mixing it well with the broth and veggies.
This step ensures every spoonful is packed with hearty goodness.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Gnocchi
Now it’s time for the creamy goodness!
Stir in the heavy cream and the gnocchi, making sure they’re well combined.
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
The gnocchi will puff up and become tender, creating that delightful texture we all love.
Step 6: Add Fresh Ingredients
Finally, add the fresh spinach, chopped parsley, and a splash of lemon juice.
Stir everything together and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
This final touch brightens the soup and adds a pop of color.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors significantly.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the gnocchi.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; every palate is different!
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Slow cooker: Essential for this recipe; a stovetop pot can work too, but it requires more attention.
Cutting board: A must-have for chopping veggies; any sturdy surface will do.
Sharp knife: For easy slicing and dicing; a good pair of kitchen scissors can also help.
Measuring cups and spoons: Handy for precise ingredient amounts; you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian soup.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables for a spicy twist.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Extra Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Wine: A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Top each bowl with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing. They’ll cook up beautifully in the creamy broth.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully dairy-free experience.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just sauté the veggies and follow the cooking instructions when you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of soup.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. A light vinaigrette salad balances the richness of the soup, making for a satisfying meal.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with family or friends.
The warmth of the soup wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making every spoonful a moment of joy.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
So, gather your loved ones, serve up a bowl, and let the laughter and stories flow as you enjoy this heartwarming dish together.
A cozy and creamy chicken gnocchi soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
In a large slow cooker, heat the olive oil on the sauté setting (if available). Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Stir in the heavy cream and gnocchi. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through.
Add the fresh spinach, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Stir well and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
You can also add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
