Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed; 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and packed with cozy flavors, this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe will quickly become one of your absolute favorites. The beauty of this recipe lies in its effortless slow cooker magic combined with the pillowy goodness of gnocchi, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy broth that warms you from the inside out. Each spoonful brings together vibrant vegetables, hearty chicken, and that marvelous gnocchi, making it a perfect go-to meal when you want something nourishing without any fuss. Trust me, once you make this soup, it will be your new comfort food obsession.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center is a white plate holding two raw chicken pieces, light pink and smooth. Surrounding the plate are clear glass bowls with colorful items: bright orange carrot slices, light green chopped celery, finely chopped white onions, round gnocchi pasta, and fresh green spinach leaves. There is also a clear measuring cup filled with light brown broth and a smaller clear jug with white cream. Small glass bowls contain dried green herbs, minced garlic, dried thyme, a mix of salt and pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and a white powder, likely cornstarch. The arrangement is clean and organized, with each ingredient distinctly visible, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward creating a bowl full of warmth and flavor. Each item plays a key role in balancing taste, texture, and a pop of color to make your soup truly shine.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Provides tender, lean protein that absorbs all the soup’s wonderful flavors.
Baby spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a boost of nutrients.
Pancetta or bacon: Infuses the broth with a subtle smoky flavor and a bit of saltiness.
Chicken broth: The flavorful base that brings everything together.
Carrots and celery: Classic aromatic veggies that contribute crunch and sweetness.
Garlic and onions: Essential aromatics that build depth of flavor.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: For that irresistible creamy texture that makes the soup so indulgent.
Potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the broth beautifully.
Herbs like thyme and parsley: Freshen the soup with earthy and bright notes.
Olive oil and butter: Used to sauté and enrich the base for extra flavor dimensions.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the natural flavors in the soup.

How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping your carrots, celery, onions, and garlic – these will create a wonderfully flavorful base for your soup. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave it whole if you prefer shredding it later. Make sure your pancetta or bacon is also chopped to release maximum flavor during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Pancetta

In a pan, melt butter with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your pancetta, cooking until crisp and fragrant. Next, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally until everything softens and the aroma fills your kitchen — this step unlocks the depth of flavor that sets this soup apart.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer your sautéed mixture into the slow cooker. Add chicken, chicken broth, and herbs like thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 4-6 hours, allowing the chicken to become juicy and the veggies to meld beautifully with the broth.

Step 4: Mix in the Gnocchi and Cream

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the potato gnocchi and spinach. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup its signature creamy texture. Continue cooking just long enough for the gnocchi to become tender and the spinach to wilt perfectly.

Step 5: Final Touches and Taste

Give your soup a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is the moment where all the flavors come together, creating a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s ready to be ladled out and enjoyed.

How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy soup that has three main layers: a white creamy broth forming the base, with chunks of orange carrot slices, light beige shredded chicken pieces, and small white gnocchi or potato pieces spread evenly throughout; scattered dark green spinach leaves add color contrast, all sitting on a soft green cloth on a white marbled surface, with a silver spoon resting inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan are wonderful garnishes that make the soup pop visually and add layers of flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the finish.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread – perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of that creamy broth. A light side salad with citrus vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls for that cozy, homey feel. For an extra special touch, ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls or mini cocottes. You might even top it with crispy fried sage leaves for a gourmet flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it separately from any bread or crunchy garnishes to retain their texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well if you leave out the gnocchi before freezing. Freeze your soup in portioned containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw completely and add freshly cooked gnocchi before serving to avoid mushiness.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup feels too thick. If you’ve frozen it without gnocchi, add cooked gnocchi just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time and still deliver great flavor. Just shred it and add it during the last hour of cooking to warm through without drying out.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and pancetta, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Swap the protein with hearty mushrooms or beans for added texture and nutrition.

Can I substitute the gnocchi with another pasta?

You can! Small pasta shapes like mini shells or ditalini work well, though gnocchi adds a unique pillowy texture that’s hard to beat. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta doesn’t overcook.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup if needed?

If you find the soup a bit thin, whisk together a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, mash some cooked potatoes into the soup to naturally thicken it.

Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! You can use the sauté function for the initial steps and switch to pressure cooking for about 10 minutes. Just add gnocchi and spinach after pressure cooking and simmer until tender, then stir in cream before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is the perfect cozy meal that brings so much joy with very little effort. It’s a delicious blend of simple ingredients transformed by slow cooking into something truly special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try on a chilly day—you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again for its warmth, comfort, and soul-satisfying flavor.