Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup Comforting Bowl

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For a cozy bowl of slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup, you need: - 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 These ingredients build the rich flavor base. The chicken provides protein and heartiness. The broth and vegetables bring warmth and nutrition. You may already have some of these staples in your kitchen: - Olive oil - Dried thyme - Dried oregano - Salt - Pepper These items are common. Always check your pantry before shopping. Fresh herbs add flavor but dried ones work well too. To elevate your soup, consider these garnishes: - Fresh parsley for color - A sprinkle of cheese, if you like - Crusty bread on the side These garnishes enhance the presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, while cheese can offer creaminess. A slice of bread is great for dipping into the soup. Enjoy your meal! Start by searing the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor. After searing, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Next, it's time to add your vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Chop 4 medium carrots and 2 stalks of celery. Layer these over the chicken in the slow cooker. This mix creates a great base for your soup. Now, add 4 cups of chicken broth over the top. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender. This slow cooking method makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Stir well to mix it with the broth and veggies. Now, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Introduce 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi and 1 cup of heavy cream. Toss in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach, too. Stir everything together. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. The gnocchi should be tender, and the soup will be creamy. To serve, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette. This adds a wonderful touch to your meal. Enjoy the cozy comfort of your delicious bowl of chicken gnocchi soup! To make your soup shine, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and oregano add bright notes. Also, sear the chicken well. This step builds rich flavors in your broth. Don’t rush the cooking time. Let the slow cooker do its magic. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld. Taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to fit your taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish too. The key to great gnocchi is to cook it just right. Add it to the soup in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and doesn’t become mushy. If you want to make gnocchi from scratch, use light, fluffy potatoes. Avoid overworking the dough; this keeps the gnocchi light. Dust with flour to prevent sticking. Also, try different flavors by adding herbs or cheeses to the dough. Always keep your slow cooker on a stable surface. This prevents spills or accidents while cooking. Ensure the lid fits tightly. This keeps the heat inside and cooks the food evenly. Do not open the lid too often. Each time you lift it, heat escapes. Use oven mitts when handling the slow cooker. It gets hot! Finally, never leave it unattended for long periods. Safety first in the kitchen! {{image_4}} You can change some ingredients for a different taste. If you want to use turkey, it works well. For a lighter soup, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies. If you don’t have fresh spinach, kale is a great option. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can use a pot on the stove. Start by searing the chicken in the pot. Then, add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Add the gnocchi and cream, cooking until the gnocchi is tender. You can also use an Instant Pot for faster cooking. Cook on high for about 10 minutes, then release the steam. To boost the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the soup. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra richness. These small changes can make your soup even more delightful! After you finish your meal, let the soup cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when you made it. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top since the soup will expand. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the stove, heat it on low, stirring often. If you use the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to make sure it heats evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a little extra chicken broth or water to get the right consistency. Enjoy your warming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup! Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this recipe. Just add them directly to the slow cooker. They will cook perfectly in the soup. Frozen gnocchi saves time and is very convenient. Slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup lasts up to four days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. This recipe is not gluten-free because traditional gnocchi contains wheat. However, you can use gluten-free gnocchi if needed. Check the package to ensure it fits your diet. You can make this soup in advance. Cook it and then store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you are ready to serve. This soup tastes great the next day! Chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm baguette. A simple side salad also works nicely. These sides help balance the meal and add texture. This blog post covers all you need for chicken gnocchi soup. You learned about essential ingredients and tips for great flavor. I shared steps for cooking in a slow cooker, from prepping the chicken to serving it hot. I also discussed variations and how to store leftovers safely. Using this easy recipe can impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this meal again and again!

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Have you ever wanted a warm, cozy meal that cooks itself? Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer. This dish is not only hearty and comforting, but it’s also easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply love a great meal, this recipe will save you time while delighting your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious bowl of comfort!

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Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

For a cozy bowl of slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup, you need:

– 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

These ingredients build the rich flavor base. The chicken provides protein and heartiness. The broth and vegetables bring warmth and nutrition.

Kitchen Staples

You may already have some of these staples in your kitchen:

– Olive oil

– Dried thyme

– Dried oregano

– Salt

– Pepper

These items are common. Always check your pantry before shopping. Fresh herbs add flavor but dried ones work well too.

Optional Garnishes

To elevate your soup, consider these garnishes:

– Fresh parsley for color

– A sprinkle of cheese, if you like

– Crusty bread on the side

These garnishes enhance the presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, while cheese can offer creaminess. A slice of bread is great for dipping into the soup. Enjoy your meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by searing the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor. After searing, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.

Layering Vegetables and Broth

Next, it’s time to add your vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Chop 4 medium carrots and 2 stalks of celery. Layer these over the chicken in the slow cooker. This mix creates a great base for your soup. Now, add 4 cups of chicken broth over the top. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Process in the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender. This slow cooking method makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.

Shredding the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Stir well to mix it with the broth and veggies.

Adding Gnocchi and Cream

Now, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Introduce 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi and 1 cup of heavy cream. Toss in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach, too. Stir everything together. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. The gnocchi should be tender, and the soup will be creamy.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette. This adds a wonderful touch to your meal. Enjoy the cozy comfort of your delicious bowl of chicken gnocchi soup!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfecting Flavor

To make your soup shine, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and oregano add bright notes. Also, sear the chicken well. This step builds rich flavors in your broth. Don’t rush the cooking time. Let the slow cooker do its magic. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld. Taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to fit your taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish too.

Best Practices for Gnocchi

The key to great gnocchi is to cook it just right. Add it to the soup in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and doesn’t become mushy. If you want to make gnocchi from scratch, use light, fluffy potatoes. Avoid overworking the dough; this keeps the gnocchi light. Dust with flour to prevent sticking. Also, try different flavors by adding herbs or cheeses to the dough.

Slow Cooker Safety Tips

Always keep your slow cooker on a stable surface. This prevents spills or accidents while cooking. Ensure the lid fits tightly. This keeps the heat inside and cooks the food evenly. Do not open the lid too often. Each time you lift it, heat escapes. Use oven mitts when handling the slow cooker. It gets hot! Finally, never leave it unattended for long periods. Safety first in the kitchen!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change some ingredients for a different taste. If you want to use turkey, it works well. For a lighter soup, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies. If you don’t have fresh spinach, kale is a great option.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can use a pot on the stove. Start by searing the chicken in the pot. Then, add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Add the gnocchi and cream, cooking until the gnocchi is tender. You can also use an Instant Pot for faster cooking. Cook on high for about 10 minutes, then release the steam.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the soup. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra richness. These small changes can make your soup even more delightful!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you finish your meal, let the soup cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when you made it.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top since the soup will expand. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the stove, heat it on low, stirring often. If you use the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to make sure it heats evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a little extra chicken broth or water to get the right consistency. Enjoy your warming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup!

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this recipe. Just add them directly to the slow cooker. They will cook perfectly in the soup. Frozen gnocchi saves time and is very convenient.

How long does slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup last?

Slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup lasts up to four days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free because traditional gnocchi contains wheat. However, you can use gluten-free gnocchi if needed. Check the package to ensure it fits your diet.

Can I make this soup in advance?

You can make this soup in advance. Cook it and then store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you are ready to serve. This soup tastes great the next day!

What can I serve with chicken gnocchi soup?

Chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm baguette. A simple side salad also works nicely. These sides help balance the meal and add texture.

This blog post covers all you need for chicken gnocchi soup. You learned about essential ingredients and tips for great flavor. I shared steps for cooking in a slow cooker, from prepping the chicken to serving it hot. I also discussed variations and how to store leftovers safely.

Using this easy recipe can impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this meal again and again!

For a cozy bowl of slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup, you need: - 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 These ingredients build the rich flavor base. The chicken provides protein and heartiness. The broth and vegetables bring warmth and nutrition. You may already have some of these staples in your kitchen: - Olive oil - Dried thyme - Dried oregano - Salt - Pepper These items are common. Always check your pantry before shopping. Fresh herbs add flavor but dried ones work well too. To elevate your soup, consider these garnishes: - Fresh parsley for color - A sprinkle of cheese, if you like - Crusty bread on the side These garnishes enhance the presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs add brightness, while cheese can offer creaminess. A slice of bread is great for dipping into the soup. Enjoy your meal! Start by searing the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor. After searing, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Next, it's time to add your vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Chop 4 medium carrots and 2 stalks of celery. Layer these over the chicken in the slow cooker. This mix creates a great base for your soup. Now, add 4 cups of chicken broth over the top. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender. This slow cooking method makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Stir well to mix it with the broth and veggies. Now, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Introduce 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi and 1 cup of heavy cream. Toss in 1 cup of fresh baby spinach, too. Stir everything together. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. The gnocchi should be tender, and the soup will be creamy. To serve, ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a splash of color and flavor. Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette. This adds a wonderful touch to your meal. Enjoy the cozy comfort of your delicious bowl of chicken gnocchi soup! To make your soup shine, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and oregano add bright notes. Also, sear the chicken well. This step builds rich flavors in your broth. Don’t rush the cooking time. Let the slow cooker do its magic. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld. Taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to fit your taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish too. The key to great gnocchi is to cook it just right. Add it to the soup in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and doesn’t become mushy. If you want to make gnocchi from scratch, use light, fluffy potatoes. Avoid overworking the dough; this keeps the gnocchi light. Dust with flour to prevent sticking. Also, try different flavors by adding herbs or cheeses to the dough. Always keep your slow cooker on a stable surface. This prevents spills or accidents while cooking. Ensure the lid fits tightly. This keeps the heat inside and cooks the food evenly. Do not open the lid too often. Each time you lift it, heat escapes. Use oven mitts when handling the slow cooker. It gets hot! Finally, never leave it unattended for long periods. Safety first in the kitchen! {{image_4}} You can change some ingredients for a different taste. If you want to use turkey, it works well. For a lighter soup, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies. If you don’t have fresh spinach, kale is a great option. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can use a pot on the stove. Start by searing the chicken in the pot. Then, add the veggies and broth. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Add the gnocchi and cream, cooking until the gnocchi is tender. You can also use an Instant Pot for faster cooking. Cook on high for about 10 minutes, then release the steam. To boost the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the soup. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra richness. These small changes can make your soup even more delightful! After you finish your meal, let the soup cool down. Store it in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when you made it. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top since the soup will expand. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. If using the stove, heat it on low, stirring often. If you use the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to make sure it heats evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a little extra chicken broth or water to get the right consistency. Enjoy your warming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup! Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this recipe. Just add them directly to the slow cooker. They will cook perfectly in the soup. Frozen gnocchi saves time and is very convenient. Slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup lasts up to four days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. This recipe is not gluten-free because traditional gnocchi contains wheat. However, you can use gluten-free gnocchi if needed. Check the package to ensure it fits your diet. You can make this soup in advance. Cook it and then store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you are ready to serve. This soup tastes great the next day! Chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm baguette. A simple side salad also works nicely. These sides help balance the meal and add texture. This blog post covers all you need for chicken gnocchi soup. You learned about essential ingredients and tips for great flavor. I shared steps for cooking in a slow cooker, from prepping the chicken to serving it hot. I also discussed variations and how to store leftovers safely. Using this easy recipe can impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this meal again and again!

Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Warm up your evenings with this cozy slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup! Packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy goodness, this comforting dish is perfect for chilly days. Follow our simple steps to create a delicious meal that’s a hit with the whole family. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a bowl of happiness this season!
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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
 

Sear the Chicken: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden brown crust. Transfer the seared chicken into the slow cooker.

    Add the Vegetables: Layer the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery over the chicken in the slow cooker for a flavorful base.

      Incorporate Broth and Herbs: Carefully pour the chicken broth over the vegetable and chicken mixture. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano, ensuring even distribution. Season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

        Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred.

          Shred the Chicken: After cooking, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it back to the slow cooker, stirring well.

            Add Gnocchi and Cream: Introduce the potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and fresh baby spinach into the slow cooker. Stir to incorporate all ingredients, then cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is al dente and the soup is creamy.

              Final Adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to achieve your desired flavor profile.

                Serve: Portion the warm soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

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

                    - Presentation Tips: Enhance your meal experience with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette alongside the soup, perfect for dipping into the hearty flavors.

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