Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the rich flavors of this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, perfect for cozy dinners.
This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a spicy broth makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and spicy flavor that warms the soul
- Easy to prepare with minimal effort
- Perfectly creamy and satisfying texture
The Comfort of Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly evening. This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables and pillowy gnocchi, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal that can easily become a family favorite.
Using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making this soup an ideal choice for busy days. Simply prep your ingredients in the morning, and let the magic happen while you go about your day. When you return home, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, preparing a meal for your family, or simply indulging yourself, this soup fits the bill. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Additionally, it's a great way to use up leftover vegetables or chicken, making it both economical and sustainable. You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes, ensuring that it pleases everyone at the table. Serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal that leaves everyone satisfied.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this soup delicious, but it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken adds a healthy dose of protein. The gnocchi adds carbohydrates that provide energy, making it a well-rounded meal.
Moreover, the use of heavy cream adds richness without overpowering the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to meet your dietary needs while still enjoying a hearty and flavorful soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Mix and match your favorite vegetables to customize the soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot
In the crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Add Gnocchi and Cream
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful soup!
Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
Tips for Success
To ensure the best flavor in your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the overall taste and adds a deeper flavor to the broth. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make the soup your own.
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-diced vegetables or a frozen vegetable blend to cut down on prep time. Just make sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables may cook faster than fresh.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency, as gnocchi can absorb liquid over time.
If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to do so before adding the gnocchi. Freeze the soup base in portions, and when you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat before adding the gnocchi for the final cooking phase.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully, while bread can be used to soak up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
Consider topping the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Fresh herbs like basil or chives can also bring a burst of freshness and color to your bowl, enhancing both the presentation and the flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be added directly to the soup without thawing.
→ How can I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat cream or substitute with almond milk for a lighter version.
→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Enjoy the rich flavors of this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, perfect for cozy dinners.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Dice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
In the crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 22g