Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is comfort in a bowl with its creamy texture achieved without cream, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter yet rich soup. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and wholesome vegetables, it is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

I first made this recipe on a chilly fall weekend when I wanted something warm and filling without lots of fuss. Ever since then, it has become a favorite for busy nights when I want dinner ready with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: whole protein that becomes tender after slow cooking
• Mirepoix: a blend of onions, celery, and carrots that builds a flavorful vegetable base, fresh produce works best
• Dried basil: adds a gentle herbaceous note, opt for fresh if you have it but dried is great too
• Italian seasoning: lends classic Italian flavors complementing the gnocchi
• Poultry seasoning: boosts the savory chicken flavor
• Salt: essential for balancing all flavors, adjust as per your broth's saltiness
• Chicken broth: the main cooking liquid for rich, savory depth, choose low sodium if you plan to adjust salt later
• Cornstarch: dissolved in water thickens the soup to creamy perfection
• Evaporated milk: makes the soup creamy without heaviness, use full fat for best results
• Gnocchi: soft pillowy dumplings absorbing flavors beautifully, fresh or refrigerated gnocchi works well
• Bacon: crispy bits add smoky crunch and fat to sauté spinach and garlic
• Garlic and fresh baby spinach: brighten and add freshness to the rich soup
• Equipment: Large Skillet, Slow Cooker, and Ladle are helpful equipment for prepping and serving

Instructions

Cook the chicken:

Place the chicken and mirepoix into the crockpot along with dried basil, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, salt, and chicken broth. Cover the crockpot and set it to high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours allowing the chicken to cook through and flavors to meld. When done, shred the chicken inside the crockpot using two forks for easy shredding.

Thicken and add gnocchi:

Add the cornstarch mixture to the soup along with evaporated milk and the gnocchi. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Replace the lid and let the soup cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour on low until it thickens and the gnocchi softens.

Crisp bacon and wilt spinach:

While the soup thickens, chop the bacon into small pieces and fry in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain and wipe out most of the grease from the pan, leaving a little bit behind. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Add fresh baby spinach to the skillet and stir until just wilted. Remove from heat.

Combine bacon and spinach:

Add the cooked bacon and spinach mixture into the crockpot and stir everything together ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.

Adjust consistency and seasoning:

Check the soup's consistency and add more liquid if it is too thick, about a cup of water is usually enough. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

My favorite part is the crispy bacon and garlic spinach mix that adds texture and fresh flavor lifting the soup beyond standard creamy recipes. It reminds me of family gatherings when everyone gathers in the kitchen sharing stories over a pot of simmering soup like this one.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Gnocchi tends to absorb liquid when reheated so add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and reheat gently on the stove over medium low heat while stirring frequently.

Ingredient substitutions

Chicken thighs provide even juicier meat if you prefer darker poultry; adjust cooking time slightly. You can swap fresh spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different green texture and flavor. Milk or half and half can replace evaporated milk but note the soup may be less creamy. Precooked bacon or pancetta can be used to save time, adding at the end as suggested.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a chunk of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely balancing the richness, and a side of roasted vegetables adds extra fiber and freshness for a complete meal.

This soup is an easy, comforting meal that works well for weeknight dinners and make ahead lunches. Always add the gnocchi near the end of cooking for the best texture.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I cook this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes, it can be prepared using an Instant Pot by pressure cooking the ingredients and finishing with saute to thicken the broth and soften the gnocchi.

→ How do I prevent the gnocchi from getting mushy?

Add the gnocchi near the end of cooking and simmer just until tender, avoiding overcooking for the best texture.

→ What vegetables are used in the base of this dish?

A mirepoix blend of onions, celery, and carrots creates a flavorful vegetable foundation.

→ Can I substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option?

Yes, crispy smoked tempeh or mushrooms sautéed with garlic can replicate the smoky depth without meat.

→ Is evaporated milk essential for this dish?

Evaporated milk adds creaminess without heavy cream, but you can use a milk alternative with similar consistency if preferred.