Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Hearty and Easy Meal

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- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 medium carrots, diced - 2 stalks celery, diced - 1 cup baby spinach - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi - Fresh parsley for garnish You need fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Start with chicken breasts. I like using boneless and skinless ones. They cook well and stay tender. Next, choose a good chicken broth. It adds depth to your soup. Diced onions and minced garlic bring an aromatic base. Carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness. Baby spinach gives a nice pop of color and nutrition. For creaminess, heavy cream does the trick. Finally, potato gnocchi makes it hearty and fun. - Olive oil - Dried thyme - Dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste You will also need some pantry staples. Use olive oil to sear the chicken. Dried thyme and oregano add earthy notes. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the soup. Make sure to have these on hand. They are key to making your soup shine. - Searing the Chicken Breasts in Olive Oil Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the hot oil. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step adds flavor and locks in juices. - Transferring to Slow Cooker Once seared, carefully move the chicken breasts to your slow cooker. It’s important to keep all those delicious juices in the pan for later use. - Layering Vegetables Over Chicken Next, add 1 medium diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks over the chicken in the slow cooker. Layering these veggies gives the soup a rich flavor. - Incorporating Chicken Broth and Seasonings Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Then sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the soup. - Setting Slow Cooker Temperature and Time Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken very tender and allows the flavors to blend. - Shredding the Chicken After Cooking After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to enjoy in your soup. - Adding Gnocchi and Cream Stir in 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of baby spinach. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This will make the gnocchi tender and the soup creamy. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty soup! To make your soup pop with flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper to taste. These basics lift the dish and enhance all the other flavors. I recommend adding garlic for a warm taste. You can use fresh or dried garlic, depending on what you have. For herbs, dried thyme and oregano work well. These herbs add depth and warmth to your soup. If you're feeling adventurous, try fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They can brighten the dish when you add them at the end. Cooking gnocchi in the slow cooker is easy. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, they stay soft and don't get mushy. Stir gently to coat them in the creamy soup. To adjust creaminess, add more heavy cream if you want a richer soup. If you prefer a lighter soup, use less cream or substitute with milk. You can even add more chicken broth for a thinner texture. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance! {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this soup. Try using turkey or even tofu. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun. If you use turkey, keep the cooking time the same. For tofu, add it near the end to warm through. Mix in seasonal veggies for a fresh twist. In spring, try peas or asparagus. In fall, add sweet potatoes or butternut squash. These options bring color and flavor to your soup. Plus, they boost nutrition. If you need gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made from rice or corn. Many stores sell these now. They work just as well and taste great in the soup. Just check the package for cooking times. To make the soup dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk. These options add richness without dairy. Use unsweetened versions to keep the flavor balanced. Adjust the seasoning as needed. - Storing Leftovers Properly: Let your soup cool down first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Seal it tight and place it in the fridge. Your soup stays fresh for up to three days. - Best Practices for Freshness: Always use clean utensils to scoop out the soup. This keeps germs away. If you notice any change in smell or color, throw it out. - How to Freeze Gnocchi Soup: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can stay frozen for up to three months. - Thawing and Reheating Tips: To thaw, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place the sealed bag in cold water. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often until it’s hot. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can cook this soup on low for 6-7 hours. If you need it faster, cook it on high for about 4 hours. Both methods will give you tender chicken and rich flavors. Yes, you can! To make this soup without a slow cooker, use a large pot on your stove. Sear the chicken in the pot, then add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This way, you can still enjoy a cozy meal without the slow cooker. I love to serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread. It soaks up the broth nicely. You can also pair it with a simple green salad for a fresh touch. A light vinaigrette adds a nice zing to the meal. You’ve learned how to make a delicious chicken gnocchi soup. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Variations let you change flavors, while storage info helps keep leftovers fresh. Now, it’s your turn to enjoy this comforting meal. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, this soup will warm your heart and fill your belly. Happy cooking!

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Craving a warm, hearty meal that’s also easy to make? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and pillowy gnocchi for a comforting dish. You’ll need just a few key ingredients and a slow cooker to bring this rich soup to life. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will quickly become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 medium carrots, diced

– 2 stalks celery, diced

– 1 cup baby spinach

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

– Fresh parsley for garnish

You need fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Start with chicken breasts. I like using boneless and skinless ones. They cook well and stay tender. Next, choose a good chicken broth. It adds depth to your soup. Diced onions and minced garlic bring an aromatic base. Carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness. Baby spinach gives a nice pop of color and nutrition. For creaminess, heavy cream does the trick. Finally, potato gnocchi makes it hearty and fun.

Pantry Staples

– Olive oil

– Dried thyme

– Dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

You will also need some pantry staples. Use olive oil to sear the chicken. Dried thyme and oregano add earthy notes. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the soup. Make sure to have these on hand. They are key to making your soup shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

– Searing the Chicken Breasts in Olive Oil

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the hot oil. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step adds flavor and locks in juices.

– Transferring to Slow Cooker

Once seared, carefully move the chicken breasts to your slow cooker. It’s important to keep all those delicious juices in the pan for later use.

Adding Vegetables and Broth

– Layering Vegetables Over Chicken

Next, add 1 medium diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks over the chicken in the slow cooker. Layering these veggies gives the soup a rich flavor.

– Incorporating Chicken Broth and Seasonings

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Then sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the soup.

Cooking and Finishing Touches

– Setting Slow Cooker Temperature and Time

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken very tender and allows the flavors to blend.

– Shredding the Chicken After Cooking

After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to enjoy in your soup.

– Adding Gnocchi and Cream

Stir in 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of baby spinach. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This will make the gnocchi tender and the soup creamy.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty soup!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor

To make your soup pop with flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper to taste. These basics lift the dish and enhance all the other flavors. I recommend adding garlic for a warm taste. You can use fresh or dried garlic, depending on what you have.

For herbs, dried thyme and oregano work well. These herbs add depth and warmth to your soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, try fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They can brighten the dish when you add them at the end.

Achieving the Right Texture

Cooking gnocchi in the slow cooker is easy. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, they stay soft and don’t get mushy. Stir gently to coat them in the creamy soup.

To adjust creaminess, add more heavy cream if you want a richer soup. If you prefer a lighter soup, use less cream or substitute with milk. You can even add more chicken broth for a thinner texture. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Using Different Proteins

You can change the protein in this soup. Try using turkey or even tofu. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun. If you use turkey, keep the cooking time the same. For tofu, add it near the end to warm through.

Adding Seasonal Vegetables

Mix in seasonal veggies for a fresh twist. In spring, try peas or asparagus. In fall, add sweet potatoes or butternut squash. These options bring color and flavor to your soup. Plus, they boost nutrition.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free Gnocchi Options

If you need gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made from rice or corn. Many stores sell these now. They work just as well and taste great in the soup. Just check the package for cooking times.

Dairy-Free Cream Substitutes

To make the soup dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk. These options add richness without dairy. Use unsweetened versions to keep the flavor balanced. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

– Storing Leftovers Properly: Let your soup cool down first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Seal it tight and place it in the fridge. Your soup stays fresh for up to three days.

– Best Practices for Freshness: Always use clean utensils to scoop out the soup. This keeps germs away. If you notice any change in smell or color, throw it out.

Freezing the Soup

– How to Freeze Gnocchi Soup: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can stay frozen for up to three months.

– Thawing and Reheating Tips: To thaw, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place the sealed bag in cold water. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often until it’s hot. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook the soup in a slow cooker?

You can cook this soup on low for 6-7 hours. If you need it faster, cook it on high for about 4 hours. Both methods will give you tender chicken and rich flavors.

Can I make this soup without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! To make this soup without a slow cooker, use a large pot on your stove. Sear the chicken in the pot, then add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This way, you can still enjoy a cozy meal without the slow cooker.

What can I serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

I love to serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread. It soaks up the broth nicely. You can also pair it with a simple green salad for a fresh touch. A light vinaigrette adds a nice zing to the meal.

You’ve learned how to make a delicious chicken gnocchi soup. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Variations let you change flavors, while storage info helps keep leftovers fresh.

Now, it’s your turn to enjoy this comforting meal. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, this soup will warm your heart and fill your belly. Happy cooking!

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 medium carrots, diced - 2 stalks celery, diced - 1 cup baby spinach - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi - Fresh parsley for garnish You need fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Start with chicken breasts. I like using boneless and skinless ones. They cook well and stay tender. Next, choose a good chicken broth. It adds depth to your soup. Diced onions and minced garlic bring an aromatic base. Carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness. Baby spinach gives a nice pop of color and nutrition. For creaminess, heavy cream does the trick. Finally, potato gnocchi makes it hearty and fun. - Olive oil - Dried thyme - Dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste You will also need some pantry staples. Use olive oil to sear the chicken. Dried thyme and oregano add earthy notes. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the soup. Make sure to have these on hand. They are key to making your soup shine. - Searing the Chicken Breasts in Olive Oil Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the hot oil. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step adds flavor and locks in juices. - Transferring to Slow Cooker Once seared, carefully move the chicken breasts to your slow cooker. It’s important to keep all those delicious juices in the pan for later use. - Layering Vegetables Over Chicken Next, add 1 medium diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks over the chicken in the slow cooker. Layering these veggies gives the soup a rich flavor. - Incorporating Chicken Broth and Seasonings Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Then sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the soup. - Setting Slow Cooker Temperature and Time Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. This slow cooking makes the chicken very tender and allows the flavors to blend. - Shredding the Chicken After Cooking After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to enjoy in your soup. - Adding Gnocchi and Cream Stir in 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of baby spinach. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This will make the gnocchi tender and the soup creamy. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty soup! To make your soup pop with flavor, start with seasoning. Use salt and pepper to taste. These basics lift the dish and enhance all the other flavors. I recommend adding garlic for a warm taste. You can use fresh or dried garlic, depending on what you have. For herbs, dried thyme and oregano work well. These herbs add depth and warmth to your soup. If you're feeling adventurous, try fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They can brighten the dish when you add them at the end. Cooking gnocchi in the slow cooker is easy. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, they stay soft and don't get mushy. Stir gently to coat them in the creamy soup. To adjust creaminess, add more heavy cream if you want a richer soup. If you prefer a lighter soup, use less cream or substitute with milk. You can even add more chicken broth for a thinner texture. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance! {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this soup. Try using turkey or even tofu. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun. If you use turkey, keep the cooking time the same. For tofu, add it near the end to warm through. Mix in seasonal veggies for a fresh twist. In spring, try peas or asparagus. In fall, add sweet potatoes or butternut squash. These options bring color and flavor to your soup. Plus, they boost nutrition. If you need gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made from rice or corn. Many stores sell these now. They work just as well and taste great in the soup. Just check the package for cooking times. To make the soup dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk. These options add richness without dairy. Use unsweetened versions to keep the flavor balanced. Adjust the seasoning as needed. - Storing Leftovers Properly: Let your soup cool down first. Then, pour it into an airtight container. Seal it tight and place it in the fridge. Your soup stays fresh for up to three days. - Best Practices for Freshness: Always use clean utensils to scoop out the soup. This keeps germs away. If you notice any change in smell or color, throw it out. - How to Freeze Gnocchi Soup: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can stay frozen for up to three months. - Thawing and Reheating Tips: To thaw, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place the sealed bag in cold water. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often until it’s hot. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can cook this soup on low for 6-7 hours. If you need it faster, cook it on high for about 4 hours. Both methods will give you tender chicken and rich flavors. Yes, you can! To make this soup without a slow cooker, use a large pot on your stove. Sear the chicken in the pot, then add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This way, you can still enjoy a cozy meal without the slow cooker. I love to serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread. It soaks up the broth nicely. You can also pair it with a simple green salad for a fresh touch. A light vinaigrette adds a nice zing to the meal. You’ve learned how to make a delicious chicken gnocchi soup. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Variations let you change flavors, while storage info helps keep leftovers fresh. Now, it’s your turn to enjoy this comforting meal. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, this soup will warm your heart and fill your belly. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Warm up your home with this cozy slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup that’s both hearty and delicious. Featuring tender chicken, fresh veggies, creamy broth, and comforting gnocchi, this recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Just toss in the ingredients and let your slow cooker do all the work! Click through to discover the full recipe and tips for creating the ultimate comforting meal everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cups chicken broth

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 medium carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 cup baby spinach

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cup heavy cream

1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden, then transfer them to the slow cooker.

    Add Vegetables: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken.

      Incorporate Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper.

        Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

          Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.

            Add the Gnocchi and Cream: Stir in the potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and baby spinach. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the gnocchi is tender.

              Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

                Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 7 hours | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side for a perfect cozy meal experience.

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