Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Comfort

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm and satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and plenty of fresh vegetables in a creamy yet dairy-free broth. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something comforting waiting for you at the end, and it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a crisp green salad.

This soup was a hit at my family table from the first time I tried it. I love how the flavors meld during the slow cooking, and it’s become my go-to for cozy weekend dinners.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the hearty protein base, look for fresh or high quality frozen
• Mirepoix (onions celery carrots): builds a classic flavor foundation, pick firm fresh vegetables
• Dried basil Italian seasoning poultry seasoning: add herbal warmth and depth, fresh spices make a big difference
• Salt: enhances all flavors, use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Chicken broth: the flavorful liquid base, opt for low sodium if you want control over salt levels
• Cornstarch dissolved in water: thickens the soup to a perfect creamy consistency
• Evaporated milk: gives creaminess without heaviness, pick a well known brand for consistency
• Gnocchi: soft little potato dumplings that soak up all the flavors, fresh or frozen both work well
• Bacon: adds smoky crispness and richness, choose thick cut for better texture after frying
• Garlic: minced for pungent aromatic flavor, always use fresh for best taste
• Fresh baby spinach: adds a pop of color and nutrition, wash well before adding

Instructions

Sear and prepare bacon and aromatics:

Cook bacon pieces in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and leave a little bacon fat in the pan. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant. Add spinach and stir just until wilted then remove from heat. Set aside.

Combine main ingredients in the crockpot:

Place chicken breasts mirepoix dried basil Italian seasoning poultry seasoning salt and chicken broth in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. The slow cooking will develop rich flavors and cook chicken to tender perfection.

Shred chicken and thicken soup:

Remove cooked chicken and shred directly in the crockpot or on a cutting board. Stir in the cornstarch mixture evaporated milk and gnocchi. Cover again and cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour until the soup thickens and the gnocchi softens.

Add bacon and spinach:

Stir in the sautéed bacon spinach and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine all components evenly. Add extra water or broth as needed if soup is thicker than you prefer.

Adjust seasoning and serve:

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your favorite bread or a side salad.

The gnocchi is my favorite part because it makes the soup feel like a full meal rather than just broth and chicken. I remember making this during a chilly weekend when my kids were home and watching their faces light up after the first spoonful was priceless. It became an instant family favorite.

Storage Tips

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating do so gently on the stove over low to medium heat to avoid breaking down the gnocchi too much so the texture stays nice and pillowy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for thighs if preferred for more flavor and juiciness. Vegetables like kale or Swiss chard work as alternatives to spinach. If you want to avoid bacon smoked turkey or a touch of smoked paprika can add a similar smokiness.

Serving Suggestions

This soup goes great with crusty artisan bread or a slice of sourdough. A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness. For extra heartiness a sprinkle of parmesan on top complements the other flavors well.

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an easy cozy meal to make ahead and reheat. Serve it hot with crusty bread for a comforting dinner.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried basil and Italian seasoning?

Yes, fresh herbs can be used but should be added later in the cooking process to maintain their vibrant flavor and aroma.

→ What is the best way to cook gnocchi in this slow-cooked dish?

Add gnocchi towards the end of cooking and allow 45 minutes to an hour for them to soften and absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

→ How can I make this dish creamier without using evaporated milk?

Try substituting with coconut milk or a light cream alternative, adjusting amounts to maintain desired consistency and flavor balance.

→ Is it necessary to shred the chicken before adding other ingredients?

Shredding the chicken in the cooking pot helps it absorb more flavor and distributes the meat evenly throughout the dish.

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

Yes, follow pressure cooking instructions: cook chicken and vegetables for 20 minutes on high pressure, then add gnocchi and milk, using the saute function to thicken.