Name: Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487628H32M55S
Total time: PT-487628H32M55S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups mirepoix (chopped onions, celery, and carrots); 1-2 teaspoons dried basil; 1-2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water; two 12 ounce cans evaporated milk; two 1 lb. packages gnocchi; 6 slices bacon; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh baby spinach

Jump to Recipe

If comfort in a bowl is what you’re craving, get ready to fall in love with Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! This creamy, dreamy classic is brimming with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, sweet veggies, and handfuls of fresh spinach for color and freshness. It’s one of those meals that will warm you from the inside out, and the incredible aroma will have your kitchen feeling inviting and cozy while it simmers away in the slow cooker. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just looking forward to leftovers, this hearty, flavor-packed soup never disappoints—especially paired with your favorite hunk of crusty bread.

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list fool you—these straightforward ingredients are mostly pantry staples, and each one brings something essential to the magic of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. From richness to crunch to color, every element plays a delicious role.

Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy shredding and tender bites throughout the soup.
Mirepoix (onions, celery, carrots): This classic veggie trio gives the soup its sweet, aromatic backbone.
Dried basil: For a layer of herbal depth that makes every spoonful pop.
Italian seasoning: A medley of dried herbs that bring irresistible savory flavor from the very first sip.
Poultry seasoning: Adds a touch of warmth and complexity, ideal for any chicken-based dish.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in every ingredient—taste as you go!
Chicken broth: Use a good-quality broth for richer flavor; this is the heart of the soup’s base.
Cornstarch (dissolved in water): The secret to getting that signature creamy, thick texture without any fuss.
Evaporated milk: Delivers creamy lusciousness without the heaviness of cream.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi makes this soup beautifully hearty, pillowy, and comforting.
Bacon: Fry it crisp for texture and a smoky pop in every bowl—don’t skip this one!
Garlic: A hit of fresh garlic brightens and balances all the rich flavors.
Fresh baby spinach: Wilt in the greens just before serving for a burst of color and healthy goodness.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by adding your boneless, skinless chicken breasts, that inviting medley of chopped onions, celery, and carrots (the classic mirepoix!), and a generous sprinkle of dried basil, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, and salt into your Crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is cozily submerged. Pop the lid on and let your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup work its magic—cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. By the end, the chicken will be fork-tender and begging to be shredded right in the pot.

Step 2: Creamy Dreaminess & Gnocchi

Once your chicken is beautifully tender, shred it directly in the crockpot using two forks. Now, to turn this from a brothy chicken soup into a creamy masterpiece, stir in your cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in water), evaporated milk, and gnocchi. Gently combine, then cover again and cook for another 45 minutes to an hour. This extra time lets the soup thicken and the gnocchi become soft, chewy pillows that soak up all that savory flavor.

Step 3: Bacon & Spinach—A Flavor Finale

While the soup thickens, get that bacon sizzling in a skillet until it’s crispy and irresistible. Drain it on a paper towel, but keep just a little bacon fat in the pan. Quickly sauté your garlic until fragrant (about a minute), then toss in the baby spinach and stir until it just wilts. Now add the spinach, garlic, and crispy bacon into the crockpot—this is where Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup earns its crowd-pleaser badge.

Step 4: Adjust, Season, and Serve

As the soup sits and thickens, it can use a bit more liquid—this is your moment to stir in about a cup of water (or more chicken broth) if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper. Each bite should be creamy, savory, and balanced, with a hint of smoky bacon and a pop of greens. Now it’s time to ladle it up and watch your family drift irresistibly toward the kitchen.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

A beautiful bowl of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup deserves toppings that make it sing! Try fresh cracked black pepper, a handful of chopped fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of shredded parmesan over each bowl. For a little crunch, toss on some toasted bread crumbs or crispy bacon pieces you set aside. These small touches make every bite feel extra special.

Side Dishes

You can never go wrong with a basket of warm, crusty bread—perfect for soaking up every last drop of creamy soup. Some folks love serving a light, zesty green salad on the side to balance the richness. And if you’re feeling fancy, garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks are always a huge hit.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your soup in small bread bowls for a cozy touch, or ladle it into pretty mugs for a more relaxed, brunchy vibe. For a family-style meal, set out a toppings bar with garnishes and let everyone customize their own bowl. Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is also stunning served with a swirl of basil pesto or a dollop of ricotta on top for a little twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cool the soup to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just know that the gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid, so the soup may thicken up as it sits.

Freezing

Freezing this soup before adding the gnocchi and dairy components is the best approach—the gnocchi can get a bit mushy after thawing, and the milk could separate. If you want to freeze Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, prepare it through the first cook (before the dairy and gnocchi step), cool, and freeze in airtight containers. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat gently, then stir in the evaporated milk and gnocchi to finish.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, and add extra broth or milk as needed to loosen the texture. The microwave works as well, but use medium power and stir every minute to prevent hot spots and ensure the soup stays creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw breasts?

Absolutely! Skip the first step’s long cooking time—simply add shredded rotisserie chicken with the other ingredients in Step 2, and cut cook time by a couple of hours. It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights!

Is there a dairy-free swap for evaporated milk?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened canned coconut milk or any creamy, unflavored non-dairy milk. The result won’t be quite as traditional, but your Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup will still turn out rich and luscious.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi from the pasta aisle are perfect, but refrigerated or homemade gnocchi work just as well. Adjust the simmer time slightly if you use smaller or homemade gnocchi so they don’t overcook.

Can I make this soup gluten free?

Absolutely! Simply swap in gluten-free gnocchi (many grocery stores carry them!), and make sure your chicken broth and bacon are certified gluten free if needed.

How do I make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup thicker or thinner?

For a thicker soup, increase the amount of dissolved cornstarch or simmer uncovered for a few minutes at the end. If you love it soupier, just stir in extra chicken broth or even a splash of milk until you reach your ideal consistency.

Final Thoughts

Give yourself permission to cozy up with a bowl (or two!) of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for friends, and guaranteed to be one of those recipes you reach for on chilly evenings. Go ahead and make it—your kitchen (and your family) will thank you!

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 11 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights at home. Creamy and flavorful, with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a touch of bacon, it’s a satisfying meal in a bowl.

Instructions

Prepare the Soup: Place the chicken, mirepoix, basil, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, salt, and broth in a crockpot. Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken in the pot.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the cornstarch mixture, evaporated milk, and gnocchi. Cook for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour until thickened.
Prepare Garnish: Cook bacon until crispy, then sauté garlic and spinach in the bacon grease. Add bacon and spinach to the crockpot.
Adjust Consistency: Add water if needed, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Notes

This soup freezes well, but the gnocchi may become a bit softer upon reheating.
You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables like peas or mushrooms.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours on high or 8 hours on low
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian