Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker is the ultimate cozy meal — rich, satisfying, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavor. Imagine tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a velvety, garlicky sauce all simmering together while your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma. This slow-cooked version takes all the flavors you love from the classic Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup and transforms it into a hearty, hands-off comfort dish perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends.

This comforting Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gnocchi not only saves you time but also guarantees restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding the family, or craving a warm bowl on a cold evening, this creamy chicken and gnocchi crockpot recipe is a true winner.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker Recipe

  • Effortless Comfort: Toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic.

  • Rich, Velvety Texture: Cream and gnocchi combine into a luscious, spoon-coating sauce.

  • Set-and-Forget Dinner: Ideal for weeknights, just 10 minutes of prep and you’re done.

  • Loaded with Veggies: Carrots, celery, and spinach add color, nutrients, and depth.

  • Protein-Packed & Filling: Chicken thighs make it hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

  • Restaurant Taste at Home: Inspired by Olive Garden copycat chicken gnocchi soup, but even creamier.

  • Family-Favorite Flavor: Kid-approved and perfect for cozy gatherings.

  • Budget-Friendly Comfort: Affordable ingredients with a luxurious result.

Ingredients 

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the creamy, comforting base of this dish.

 Main Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs bring juiciness; breasts work for a leaner version.

  • 1 pound potato gnocchi – These Italian dumplings soak up all the creamy sauce beautifully.

 Vegetables

  • 3–4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped – Sweetness and color balance the savory base.

  • 1–2 stalks celery, chopped – Adds aromatic depth.

  • ½ medium onion, chopped – A flavor foundation.

  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that signature creamy garlic note.

  • 3 cups baby spinach – Adds freshness and nutrition at the end.

🌿 Seasonings & Liquids

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For brightness.

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning – Adds herby balance.

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 tsp Better Than Bouillon chicken base (optional) – Intensifies umami flavor.

  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick.

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock – The flavorful cooking base.

  • 1 cup cream or half and half – Creates that luxurious creamy texture.

  • 1–2 tbsp cornstarch – Thickens the sauce.

Optional for Serving

  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled – Adds smoky crunch as a topping.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker

Follow this simple step-by-step process to create a foolproof, creamy delight:

  1. Layer the Base:
    Place chicken, chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, onion), garlic, parsley, and seasonings in your slow cooker. Add bouillon and red pepper flakes if desired.

  2. Add Liquids & Cook:
    Pour in the chicken stock. Stir gently, cover, and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours until chicken is tender.

  3. Shred the Chicken:
    Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot once fully cooked.

  4. Add Creamy Finish:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the cream and cornstarch. Pour it into the slow cooker, then add gnocchi and spinach.

  5. Final Simmer:
    Cook on high for 30–45 minutes until the gnocchi softens and the sauce thickens into a rich, velvety consistency.

  6. Serve & Enjoy:
    Ladle into bowls, top with crumbled bacon if you like, and serve with crusty bread or parmesan shavings.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker

💬 How do you thicken slow cooker chicken gnocchi soup?

Use cornstarch mixed with cream or cold water — it creates a smooth, glossy consistency without curdling.

💬 Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes! Just add it directly to the pot during the last 45 minutes of cooking; no need to thaw.

💬 What’s the best chicken cut for slow cooking?

Chicken thighs yield a juicier texture, while chicken breasts are leaner but slightly drier. Choose based on preference.

💬 Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely — swap cream for unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free, still-creamy version.

💬 How do I make it more flavorful?

Add a touch of lemon juice or extra bouillon at the end to boost depth and brightness.

Best Ways to Serve It

Serve your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker with:

  • Warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls.

  • A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value
Calories 420 21%
Protein 32g 64%
Fat 18g 27%
Carbohydrates 35g 13%
Fiber 3g 12%
Sodium 880mg 36%
Sugar 5g —

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months (texture may slightly change due to cream).

  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen.

Recipe Variations

  •  Healthy Version: Use light cream and add extra spinach or kale.

  •  Extra Cheesy: Stir in grated parmesan or mozzarella before serving.

  •  Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

  •  Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth.

  •  Bacon-Lover’s Dream: Mix crumbled bacon directly into the soup for smoky depth.

FAQs About Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker

Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Simmer the same ingredients for 30–40 minutes, then finish with cream and gnocchi.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Definitely. Reduce the cooking time to 2–3 hours and add the chicken later to prevent overcooking.

Q: What kind of gnocchi works best?
Shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi both work beautifully — just adjust the final simmer time accordingly.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Slow Cooker — it’s simple, indulgent, and comforting all at once. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi, it’s a meal that tastes like love in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this cozy slow cooker recipe guarantees warmth and satisfaction every single time.

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