Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy meal, look no further than Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This creamy, dreamy dish is a hug in a bowl, packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and plenty of fresh veggies. It’s the kind of soup that makes you want to curl up under a blanket and savor every spoonful, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a warm, comforting lunch. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one brings something special to the pot—whether it’s a pop of color, a burst of flavor, or that signature creamy texture you crave in comfort food.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become juicy and tender as they slow-cook, soaking up all the savory flavors of the broth.
- Onion: Diced onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth that anchors the soup’s flavor.
- Shredded carrots: Carrots bring color and a gentle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch at first, then softens for that classic soup texture.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the soup with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Dried thyme: Thyme brings a woodsy, earthy note that’s essential in chicken soups.
- Dried parsley: Parsley brightens the whole dish and adds a hint of freshness.
- Salt: Just enough to bring out all the flavors; adjust to taste.
- Black pepper: A touch of pepper provides gentle warmth in every bite.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: The backbone of the soup, keeping it flavorful but not too salty.
- Potato gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings turn the soup into a hearty, filling meal.
- Fresh spinach: Roughly chopped spinach wilts into the soup for freshness and a pop of green.
- Half-and-half or heavy cream: This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy—choose your richness level!
- Cornstarch (optional): Whisk with water if you like your soup extra thick and velvety.
- Water (if using cornstarch): Just a splash to make a quick slurry for thickening.
- Butter (optional): Stir in at the end for a glossy finish and even more richness.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery, mince the garlic, and measure out your herbs and seasonings. If you’re feeling organized, you can even shred the carrots ahead of time. Having everything ready to go makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Layer in the Crockpot
Add your chicken breasts to the bottom of the crockpot, then pile on the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth so everything is well-covered. This layering ensures the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crockpot to low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will turn tender and juicy, and the vegetables will soften while infusing the broth with flavor. No need to peek—just let it do its thing!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. The meat should fall apart easily. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and give everything a good stir to distribute those savory bits throughout.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Spinach
Stir in the package of potato gnocchi and your chopped spinach. Cover again and cook on high for another 20 to 30 minutes. The gnocchi will puff up and become tender, while the spinach wilts down and adds a burst of color.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
Pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk the cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir it in now. Add the optional butter for extra richness and let everything cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, until perfectly creamy and slightly thickened.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Give your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls while it’s hot and steamy—get ready for serious comfort!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes
Finish your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful of chopped fresh parsley, or a crack of black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can add a bit of flair, too. Garnishes are the perfect way to add flavor and a restaurant-worthy touch to every bowl.
Side Dishes
This soup loves company! Serve it alongside a crusty baguette or warm garlic bread for dipping. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, while roasted veggies make it a complete meal. It’s also fantastic with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, ladle Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup into small mugs or bread bowls for parties and gatherings. If you’re hosting a dinner, offer a soup bar with an array of toppings—like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or herbs—so guests can customize their bowls. Presentation turns this cozy classic into an entertaining favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next bowl even more delicious!
Freezing
While this soup can be frozen, keep in mind that gnocchi and cream-based soups can change texture after thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider leaving out the gnocchi and cream until you reheat; add them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, simply warm it slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s extra thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too—just go in short bursts and stir between intervals for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just add the shredded cooked chicken towards the end, with the gnocchi and spinach, so it doesn’t overcook.
Is it possible to make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the half-and-half for a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use olive oil instead of butter for richness, and skip the cheese garnish or use a vegan version.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers are tasty additions. Just chop them small and add them with the other vegetables at the start for a heartier, veggie-packed soup.
What’s the best type Soup
Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi brings a delightful homemade touch. Both hold up well in the slow cooker.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
If your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup thickens up too much, simply stir in more chicken broth or a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. The gnocchi naturally thickens the soup as it sits, so adjusting the liquid is easy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a recipe that blends ease, comfort, and pure deliciousness, Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it earn a spot in your regular meal rotation—you’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, creamy slow cooker meal packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a blend of herbs. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy leftovers, it delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Soup Add-ins
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Thickening and Finishing
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large crockpot, add the chicken breasts, chopped onion, shredded carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and low-sodium chicken broth. This mixture sets the base for your flavorful soup.
- Cook the Soup Base: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This slow cooking extracts rich flavors from the ingredients.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to combine with the broth and vegetables.
- Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Stir in the potato gnocchi and roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, until the gnocchi is tender and spinach is wilted, enhancing the texture and color of the soup.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream to add richness to the soup. If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir it into the soup.
- Finish Cooking: Add butter if using, stirring until melted and the soup is creamy. Cook for another 5–10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and flavors meld together perfectly.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. For extra indulgence, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.
Notes
- This soup keeps well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it great for leftovers.
- For an added flavor boost, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- Adjust the salt to taste, especially if your chicken broth is not low sodium.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg