Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Rich, Comforting & Effortless)

Introduction

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying, yet remarkably easy to prepare. Inspired by the classic Italian-style soup popularized by restaurants, this slow cooker version delivers tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy broth with minimal hands-on time.

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What Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, broth-based soup featuring bite-sized potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and vegetables such as carrots, celery, and spinach. Traditionally simmered on the stovetop, this slow cooker adaptation allows flavors to develop gently while keeping the chicken exceptionally moist.

The result is a comforting soup with a silky texture, balanced savoriness, and hearty substance—perfect for colder months or anytime you crave a nourishing bowl.

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Version

• Hands-off cooking with minimal prep
• Ultra-tender chicken that doesn’t dry out
• Creamy texture without constant stirring
• Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Using a slow cooker simplifies the process while intensifying flavor.

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Key Ingredients and Their Role

Chicken

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs provide lean protein and absorb the soup’s flavors.

Potato Gnocchi

Adds heartiness and a soft, pillowy bite that makes the soup filling.

Aromatic Vegetables

Onion, carrot, and celery form a classic flavor base.

Garlic and Herbs

Enhance depth and warmth.

Cream and Broth

Create the soup’s signature creamy consistency.

Spinach

Adds freshness, color, and nutritional balance.

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Choosing the Best Chicken

• Chicken breasts: Lean and mild
• Chicken thighs: Richer flavor and extra tenderness

Both work well; thighs are more forgiving during long cooking.

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Best Gnocchi for Soup

• Shelf-stable potato gnocchi (most convenient)
• Fresh refrigerated gnocchi for softer texture

Add gnocchi near the end to prevent overcooking.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• 5–6 quart slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Skillet (optional, for sautéing)
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 1½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 lb potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

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Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Add chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and basil to the slow cooker.

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Step 2: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.

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Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker.

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Step 4: Add Cream and Gnocchi

Stir in cream and gnocchi. If thicker soup is desired, mix cornstarch with a little broth and add.

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Step 5: Finish the Soup

Cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes until gnocchi is tender. Stir in spinach and Parmesan until wilted and smooth.

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Step 6: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Add dairy at the end to prevent curdling
• Do not overcook gnocchi
• Season gradually and taste before serving
• Use fresh spinach for best texture

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding gnocchi too early
• Cooking on high too long
• Using low-fat cream substitutes
• Skipping seasoning adjustments

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Variations and Customizations

Dairy-Free Option

Use coconut milk or cashew cream.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free gnocchi.

Vegetable-Loaded Soup

Add mushrooms or zucchini.

Lemon Herb Twist

Finish with lemon zest and fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or baguette
• Pair with a crisp green salad
• Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Freeze without gnocchi for best texture
• Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and flavors deepen overnight.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add shredded chicken during the final hour.

How do I thicken the soup?

Use cornstarch slurry or reduce slightly uncovered.

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Why Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Is a Must-Make

This soup delivers restaurant-style comfort with slow cooker convenience—perfect for busy families and cozy nights alike.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is proof that luxurious comfort food doesn’t require complicated techniques. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth, this recipe is destined to become a regular in your slow cooker rotation.

Once you try it, it will quickly earn a place among your most-requested homemade soups.

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