When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, nothing beats the satisfaction of a delicious bowl of crockpot chicken soup. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or preparing for a cozy family dinner, this slow-cooked, one-pot wonder is the perfect solution. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts simmering alongside a savory blend of mirepoix onions, celery, and carrots (a blend of essential vegetables), flavorful herbs like basil, Italian seasoning, and poultry seasoning, and the rich taste of chicken broth. With the addition of gnocchi, bacon, and fresh spinach, this soup becomes more than just a meal – it’s an experience.
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, while the spinach offers a boost of essential vitamins and minerals. The gnocchi adds a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth, making each spoonful feel indulgent. This crockpot soup is the ideal combination of nutritious and hearty, perfect for any time of year.
Let’s explore how to make this mouthwatering crockpot soup and why it’s a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, filling meal.
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Crockpot Chicken and Gnocchi Soup: A Hearty, Nutritious Meal
Health Benefits of Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
When you think of comfort food, crockpot chicken soup with gnocchi might not immediately come to mind as a health-conscious option. However, this hearty dish is packed with nutrients that provide a variety of health benefits, making it not only delicious but also nourishing.
- High in Lean Protein
The boneless skinless chicken breasts in this soup are an excellent source of lean protein. Protein plays a crucial role in repairing and building tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall immune function. Including lean protein in your diet can also help with muscle growth and maintenance, making this soup a great option for anyone looking to support an active lifestyle.
- Packed with Nutrient-Rich Vegetables
The mirepoix, consisting of chopped onions, celery, and carrots, serves as the base of this soup, bringing both flavor and nutritional value. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports healthy vision and skin, while celery is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and high fiber content, which aids in digestion. Onions provide a range of beneficial compounds that support heart health and immune function.
- A Boost of Greens with Spinach
Fresh baby spinach adds another layer of nutrition to this soup. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K, which help strengthen bones, improve skin health, and boost the immune system. It also contains iron and folate, essential for red blood cell production and energy metabolism. The greens in this soup contribute to the overall health benefits, making each bowl a nourishing choice.
- Gut Health Support from Gnocchi and Cornstarch
While the addition of gnocchi provides comfort and a satisfying texture, it’s also a good source of carbohydrates, which give your body the energy it needs. The cornstarch used to thicken the soup can also benefit gut health, as it has a soothing effect on the digestive tract. For those with sensitive stomachs, cornstarch is a gentler option compared to other thickeners like flour, which can sometimes cause irritation.
- Bacon for Healthy Fats in Moderation
Although bacon often gets a bad rap, when used in moderation, it provides healthy fats that are essential for hormone production and brain function. In this recipe, the bacon slices lend a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. As long as you don’t overdo it, this is a tasty way to enjoy fats in your diet.
By combining these wholesome ingredients, chicken and gnocchi soup becomes a nourishing, well-rounded meal that can contribute to your overall health while satisfying your cravings for comfort food. Whether you’re looking to support muscle repair, boost your immune system, or simply enjoy a cozy meal, this soup has got you covered.
Why This Crockpot Soup is Perfect for Comfort and Wellness
When it comes to achieving a balance between comfort and wellness, crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is the perfect solution. This soup not only offers a rich, indulgent taste that satisfies your cravings but also provides essential nutrients to keep you feeling your best. Let’s break down why this hearty dish hits the sweet spot between comfort and nutrition.
- A Hearty Meal That Doesn’t Weigh You Down
This soup is the ideal comfort food because of its rich, creamy texture and full-bodied flavor. However, unlike many heavy comfort foods, it’s light on excess calories and full of wholesome ingredients. The chicken and gnocchi create a filling meal that satisfies hunger without causing that sluggish, overly full feeling. Plus, using evaporated milk instead of heavy cream makes the soup creamy without the added fat content, offering a lighter alternative that still feels indulgent.
- Long-Lasting Satisfaction Without Guilt
With the addition of mirepoix mirepoix (a mixture of carrots, celery, and onions) spinach, and lean chicken, this soup delivers a combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats that keep you feeling satisfied for longer. The fiber from the vegetables and spinach helps regulate digestion, while the chicken provides lasting energy through protein. Unlike typical comfort foods that may lead to a sugar or carb crash later, this soup offers sustained satisfaction, which is ideal for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
- Immune Support for Year-Round Wellness
The soup’s high content of vitamins, antioxidants, and immune-boosting ingredients like spinach and chicken broth help support overall wellness. The combination of garlic, herbs, and poultry seasoning adds a layer of natural immune support, helping protect your body from seasonal colds or other health challenges. It’s a perfect choice for staying healthy throughout the year, especially during cold and flu season, when your body needs extra support.
- Convenience Meets Wellness
What makes this recipe so special is its straightforwardness.. By using a crockpot crockpot (or slow cooker), you’re able to prepare a nourishing, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can set it up in the morning, go about your day, and return to a meal that’s ready to enjoy. The slow-cooking process also helps enhance the flavors, allowing the ingredients to meld together perfectly, ensuring that each bite is full of depth and satisfaction.
- A Cozy, Warm Meal for Any Season
Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a cool fall afternoon, crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup offers a cozy, warm solution to satisfy your comfort food cravings. The combination of the slow-cooked chicken, vegetables, and gnocchi provides a satisfying, hearty meal that is perfect for any season, especially when you want something comforting but still healthy.
By combining comfort food elements with nutrient-dense ingredients, this soup provides a delicious yet health-conscious way to enjoy the foods you love. It’s not just about indulging; it’s about nourishing your body with the best ingredients that support overall health and well-being.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Chicken Soup with Gnocchi
Key Tips to Ensure Your Soup Turns Out Perfect Every Time
Making a crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup sounds easy, but there are a few tips and tricks that can make a huge difference in the final result. Here are some essential tips to ensure that your soup turns out perfectly, every time:
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
Gnocchi cooks quickly, and when added too early to the slow cooker, it can become mushy. To avoid this, add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give it enough time to soften and absorb the flavors of the broth without losing its texture. Overcooking gnocchi can make it fall apart, so timing is key.
- Brown the Bacon for Extra Flavor
While the recipe calls for adding bacon directly to the crockpot, taking a few extra minutes to brown the bacon in a skillet before adding it will elevate the flavor significantly. This step helps render out the fat and crisp up the bacon, resulting in a more intense, smoky taste that infuses the soup with extra depth. Plus, the crispy bacon adds a delightful texture to the finished dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
When possible, opt for fresh vegetables, especially the spinach and mirepoix onions, carrots, and celery. Fresh vegetables have more flavor and nutrients than frozen or pre-chopped varieties, which can sometimes affect the texture and taste of the soup. Fresh garlic, herbs, and spices will also provide a more vibrant taste, giving your soup that homemade touch.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry
The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the soup and achieving that creamy consistency without using heavy cream. Be sure to dissolve the cornstarch in water before adding it to the soup to avoid lumps. Stir the slurry into the crockpot toward the end of cooking, and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the soup to thicken perfectly.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings
One of the benefits of slow cooking is that the flavors develop over time. However, as the soup cooks, you might find that the seasoning could use a little adjustment. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, or any other seasonings to your preference. Sometimes, a little extra dash of Italian seasoning or a squeeze of lemon juice can really bring the flavors to life.
- Consider Adding a Splash of Vinegar or Lemon
A small amount of vinegar or lemon juice can really brighten up the soup, balancing out the richness of the bacon and cream. If your soup feels a little too heavy, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This will cut through the richness and add a fresh note that enhances the flavor.
- Layer Ingredients for Even Cooking
To ensure all ingredients cook evenly, try layering them in the crockpot. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom, followed by the mirepoix and seasonings, and then pour the chicken broth over the top. This layering helps to keep the ingredients in their best cooking environment, ensuring that each component reaches its full potential.
- Shred the Chicken for a More Flavorful Soup
After the soup is finished cooking, you can easily shred the chicken breasts with two forks. This adds a wonderful texture to the soup and allows the shredded chicken to absorb more of the broth and seasoning. It also ensures that every spoonful contains a perfect balance of meat, veggies, and gnocchi.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup comes out perfectly every time—rich, flavorful, and satisfying!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crockpot Soup
While making crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of the dish. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure that your soup turns out just as delicious as it sounds.
- Adding the Gnocchi Too Early
As mentioned earlier, gnocchi should be added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from turning mushy. Adding it too early will cause it to break down and lose its delightful texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time and only add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give it the perfect amount of time to soften without disintegrating.
- Overcooking the Chicken
While the slow cooking process is forgiving, overcooking the chicken can lead to dry, tough pieces of meat. To avoid this, check the chicken at the 4-hour mark on low heat or 2-hour mark on high heat. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F but should still be tender and juicy. If you’re worried about overcooking, consider shredding the chicken after it’s cooked through and adding it back into the soup for a more flavorful and moist result.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings
It’s easy to overlook the importance of seasoning adjustments when cooking in a slow cooker. The long cooking time can cause flavors to become more concentrated, which means you might need to add extra salt, pepper, or herbs before serving. Always taste the soup before serving, and if the flavors seem flat, add a pinch of salt, a dash of Italian seasoning, or even a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up. This final adjustment can elevate the dish.
- Using the Wrong Type of Broth
For the best results, opt for low-sodium chicken broth or homemade chicken stock. While using regular broth or stock can save time, they may be overly salty, especially when combined with the bacon in the recipe. Too much salt can overpower the natural flavors of the ingredients. If you use store-bought broth, always taste it first and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Not Layering the Ingredients Properly
The order in which you add ingredients to the crockpot matters. Chicken breasts should go at the bottom, followed by the mirepoix onions, celery, and carrots (a mixture of vital vegetables), then the seasonings, and finally the chicken broth. Layering the ingredients helps them cook evenly and allows each component to release its flavors at the right time. This ensures the soup has the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry
The cornstarch slurry is essential for thickening the soup and achieving the creamy consistency that makes it so comforting. If you skip this step, the soup may end up too thin. Dissolving cornstarch in water before adding it to the crockpot ensures it mixes evenly into the soup without clumping. Stir it in during the final 10-15 minutes of cooking to give the soup time to thicken properly.
- Forgetting to Crisp the Bacon
Although you can add bacon directly to the slow cooker, skipping the step of crisping it beforehand will miss out on the flavor and texture that crispy bacon provides. Bacon adds not only flavor but also a satisfying crunch, so it’s worth taking the extra step to brown it before adding it to the soup.
- Overcrowding the Crockpot
While it’s tempting to fit all your ingredients into the crockpot at once, overcrowding it can prevent the soup from cooking properly. This may lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Be sure to follow the ingredient proportions in the recipe and give the soup enough room to simmer and meld the flavors together.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure that your crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup comes out perfectly every time—rich, creamy, and full of flavor!
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Ingredient List with Quantities
To make the crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup as delicious as it sounds, it’s important to use the right ingredients in the correct quantities. Here’s the full ingredient list you’ll need to prepare this hearty and comforting soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
This is the lean protein base of the soup, offering tenderness and flavor without excess fat.
- 2 cups mirepoix
A classic blend of onions, celery, and carrots. These vegetables form the aromatic base of the soup and provide depth of flavor.
- 1–2 teaspoons dried basil
A touch of basil adds a mild, sweet herb flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables.
- 1–2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
This herb mix brings a blend of flavors, including oregano, thyme, and rosemary, for an authentic Italian touch.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
Perfect for enhancing the flavors of chicken, poultry seasoning adds warmth and richness to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances all the natural flavors in the soup and balances the richness of the broth and other ingredients.
- 4 cups chicken broth
Chicken broth is the liquid base of the soup. You can use low-sodium broth for a lighter option or homemade broth for even more depth.
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch combined with 2 tablespoons of water
The cornstarch slurry is crucial for thickening the soup to the perfect creamy consistency without using heavy cream.
- Two 12-ounce cans evaporated milk
The evaporated milk adds creaminess without being as heavy as regular cream, making the soup rich and smooth.
- Two 1 lb. packages gnocchi (about 4 cups)
Gnocchi provides a pillowy texture and makes the soup hearty, turning it into a full meal.
- 6 slices bacon
The bacon gives the soup a smoky, savory flavor and a crunchy texture when crisped before being added to the pot.
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds an aromatic, slightly spicy flavor that complements the other savory ingredients.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Spinach offers a boost of nutrients like iron, vitamin K, and vitamin A, adding color and a fresh, earthy taste to the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Soup
With all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking!
Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to make your crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup. This easy-to-follow guide ensures that your soup turns out perfectly every time.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This allows for even cooking and helps the chicken absorb all the flavors. Next, prepare the mirepoix by chopping the onions, celery, and carrots into small, uniform pieces. Add these to the crockpot over the chicken. Chop the garlic finely and add it to the vegetables
- Add Broth, Herbs, and Seasonings
Add the chicken broth to the crockpot, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully covered. Stir in the dried basil, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, and salt. These seasonings will infuse the soup with savory flavors as it cooks. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the soup to develop a richer flavor the longer it cooks. Check the chicken after the suggested cooking time; it should be tender enough to shred with a fork. Once done, take out the chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the crockpot. This will help thicken the soup and give it that rich, creamy texture. Let the soup cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken up.
- Crisp the Bacon
While the soup is thickening, take the bacon slices and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy and browned. Take the bacon out of the skillet, crumble it into small pieces, and put it aside
- Add Gnocchi and Spinach
Once the soup has thickened, add the gnocchi to the crockpot. Stir in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt in the hot broth. Allow the soup to cook for another 30 minutes on low or until the gnocchi is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken and Combine
After the soup has finished cooking, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, and top each serving with the crispy bacon crumbles for added texture and flavor. For added richness, consider garnishing with extra fresh spinach or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How to Store and Reheat Your Crockpot Chicken Soup
Freezing and Storing Crockpot Soup
One of the best aspects of crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is its ability to be made in advance, stored, and enjoyed later. Whether you want to meal prep for the week or have leftovers for busy days, knowing how to store and freeze this soup properly will help maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s all the information you need to properly store and freeze your soup:
- Storing in the Refrigerator:
- Cool the Soup Quickly
After the soup has finished cooking, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps the soup from becoming too watery. You can speed up the cooling process by transferring the soup into a shallow container.
- Store in an Airtight Container
After cooling, transfer the soup into a container that seals tightly. Keep the soup in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3–4 days days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature. If you’re reheating a large batch, you can use a microwave or reheat it in the crockpot on the low setting for 1–2 hours.
- Freezing Crockpot Soup:
- Allow the Soup to Cool Completely
Make sure the soup is fully cooled before freezing. If you add the soup to freezer bags or containers while still warm, it could lead to freezer burn or spoilage. As with refrigeration, cooling the soup properly will help maintain its flavor.
- Use Freezer-Safe Containers or Bags
For long-term storage, use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat in the freezer to allow for easy stacking and quicker thawing later. Ensure there is space at the top of the container to accommodate expansion when the soup freezes.You can also portion the soup into smaller containers for easy single servings later.
- Label and Date
Remember to mark the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
Since frozen soup can be kept for up to 3 months, knowing when it was made will help you keep track of how long it’s been stored.
- Reheating Frozen Soup:
- Thaw in the Refrigerator
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This method helps maintain the texture and ensures it reheats evenly
- Reheat either on the stovetop or in the microwave.
After thawing, transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, you can add a bit more chicken broth or evaporated milk to thin it to your desired consistency.
- A Few Freezing Tips:
- Gnocchi Texture: While gnocchi can be frozen, its texture may slightly change once reheated. If you’re planning to freeze this soup, you might consider cooking the gnocchi fresh when reheating, rather than freezing it with the soup, to retain its best texture.
- Reheating in the Crockpot: You can also reheat the soup in the crockpot on the low setting for a couple of hours. Just make sure to add a little bit of liquid chicken broth or evaporated milk to prevent it from becoming too thick.
By following these storage and freezing tips, you’ll be able to enjoy crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal without having to cook from scratch each time.
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Soup with Gnocchi
As you prepare your delicious crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup, you might have a few questions or wonder about different variations. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you perfect your soup and make adjustments based on your preferences:
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star of this soup, you can easily substitute it with other types of meat, such as turkey or pork. For a vegetarian version, try using tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. If you go with a different meat, be sure to adjust the cooking time, as certain meats may need longer to cook until tender.
2. Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
While fresh vegetables offer the best texture and flavor, you can substitute frozen mirepoix onions, celery, and carrots (a mixture of vital vegetables) if needed. Just keep in mind that frozen vegetables tend to release more water, which may slightly alter the texture of the soup. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the soup.
3. Is There a Way to Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this soup dairy-free, simply replace the evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use a dairy-free cream or a cashew cream to achieve a similar creamy texture. Just ensure that the alternative you choose is unsweetened to avoid any unwanted flavors in the soup.
4. Can I Make This Soup in the Instant Pot or on the Stovetop?
If you don’t have a crockpot, you can easily adapt this recipe for other cooking methods:
- Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to manual/high pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, release the pressure and shred the chicken. Add the gnocchi and spinach, and cook on sauté mode for another 5 minutes to allow the gnocchi to cook.
- Stovetop: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer and cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked, about 20 minutes. Take the chicken out, shred it, and add it back into the pot. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the soup is heated through.
5. How Can I Adjust the Flavor If It’s Too Bland?
If you find that your soup is lacking in flavor, consider adjusting the seasoning. Add more salt, a pinch of black pepper, or an extra dash of Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor. If you want a little acidity to balance out the richness, a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can do wonders. Don’t forget to stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra flavor boost.
6. Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, green beans, or even potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add vegetables that require more time to soften. If you’re adding potatoes, cube them small so they cook through during the slow-cooking process.
7. How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the soup. For an extra punch, you can stir in a tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce just before serving.
8. What Should I Serve This Soup With?
This crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is a hearty dish on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides:
- Serve with crusty bread or a warm baguette to dip.
- A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the soup
- Garlic bread for a comforting, carb-filled addition
Crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is the perfect comfort food that combines hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and healthy benefits in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a meal to warm you up on a chilly day or a nutritious option to feed the whole family, this soup checks all the boxes. With tender chicken, savory bacon, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach, each bowl offers something special.
Not only is this soup incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to the convenience of the crockpot, but it also allows you to enjoy a homemade meal that’s packed with essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. By following the tips and instructions in this guide, you’ll be able to create a creamy, comforting soup that’s bursting with flavor every time.
Plus, with the ability to store and freeze the soup for later, you can have a hearty meal ready whenever you need it, without the hassle. Whether you make it in advance for meal prep or enjoy it fresh, crockpot chicken and gnocchi soup is a dish you’ll want to keep on repeat in your kitchen.
So, next time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, remember this easy-to-make, delicious soup—your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!