Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, wrapping you in its velvety goodness and aromatic bliss. Imagine the delightful aroma of herbs and spices wafting through your kitchen as this creamy concoction simmers away, transforming your home into a cozy, inviting space that even your cat will be jealous of.
Picture this: it’s a brisk autumn evening, the kind where you can almost hear the leaves crunching underfoot, and all you want is something hearty and comforting to eat. Enter Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup—the ultimate bowl of happiness that’s perfect for those lazy Sundays or when you simply need to impress someone special without breaking a sweat. perfect pairing with creamy soups.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only incredibly easy to make but also packs a punch of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- The creamy texture and rich taste make it visually appealing and utterly satisfying for any occasion.
- Best of all, it’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand, making it a fantastic go-to recipe.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly here; feel free to adjust depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves for an aromatic flavor that will elevate your soup.
- Carrots: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, these add sweetness and color—think of them as little orange nuggets of joy.
- Celery: Diced celery brings a nice crunch and balances the creaminess of the soup.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for the base; it provides depth without overwhelming saltiness.
- Cream Cheese: This is the secret weapon for creamy goodness; make sure it’s softened so it melts beautifully into the soup.
- Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi; they cook quickly and become pillowy soft when simmered in broth.
- Spinach or Kale: A handful of these greens adds nutrition and we all know we need our vitamins
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your vegetables—carrots, celery, and garlic—so they’re ready to mingle in the slow cooker. No one likes waiting around for their ingredients!
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Place your boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Go ahead; they deserve to be pampered first.
Step 3: Layer in the Veggies
Sprinkle in those chopped carrots and celery, then toss in minced garlic like confetti. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add the chicken broth gently over your layered ingredients. This liquid gold will bring everything together while cooking.
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover your slow cooker with its lid, set it on low for about six hours (or high for three), and let it do its magic while you binge-watch another episode of your favorite show.
Step 6: Stir in Cream Cheese & Gnocchi
Once cooked, shred that chicken right in its cozy broth bath! Then stir in softened cream cheese until well combined before adding gnocchi in the last hour. great appetizer for gatherings Finish with spinach or kale just before serving.
Serve this delicious soup hot with some crusty bread on the side—it’s like having a party inside your bowl! Enjoy every spoonful as if it’s giving you a high-five!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than a heartwarming dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- With a rich, velvety texture and flavorful spices, it transforms any chilly day into a cozy culinary experience.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s truly comforting.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors. While it’s sizzling, chop vegetables for added depth. Once the chicken is golden, throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or use vegetable broth for a lighter version. Toss in some kale or spinach for an extra nutritional punch. Experiment with your favorite herbs to make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy soup, use high-quality chicken broth and real cream for richness.
- Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; they should stay tender yet firm.
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed!
Nothing beats that moment when family gathers around the dinner table, eyes lighting up as they take their first spoonful of this soup. It’s like magic—everyone smiles and asks for seconds!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
To make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, potato gnocchi, carrots, celery, garlic, and chicken broth. Additionally, you’ll require heavy cream for the creamy texture and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Gather these ingredients to create a comforting soup that is perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Cooking Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken becomes tender. Adding the gnocchi in the last 30 minutes ensures they cook perfectly without becoming mushy, resulting in a delightful soup.
Can I make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time. You can chop your vegetables and store them in the fridge overnight. Also, you can add all ingredients except for the gnocchi and heavy cream into the slow cooker for easy meal prep. Just remember to add the gnocchi and cream towards the end of cooking when you’re ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette complements this rich soup well. For an extra touch of flavor, consider serving it with grated Parmesan cheese on top or some fresh herbs like parsley or basil. These sides enhance the overall dining experience.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
In summary, Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that requires minimal effort. With simple ingredients like chicken, gnocchi, and fresh vegetables cooked slowly, you achieve maximum flavor and tenderness. lighter meal alternative Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, this soup not only satisfies but also warms your soul. Enjoy it paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family will love!
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that warms your soul on chilly nights. This rich and velvety soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. With minimal effort required, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sundays, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
Instructions
- Chop carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Layer in chopped vegetables and minced garlic.
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Shred chicken in the broth; stir in cream cheese until combined.
- Add gnocchi and spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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