Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you love comforting, creamy soups that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day, you are going to adore this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s a lightened-up, easy-to-make version of the beloved classic, packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach, all simmered to silky perfection in your slow cooker. This recipe brings all the flavors you crave without the fuss, making it a total weeknight winner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is simple yet essential. Each one brings something special, whether it’s a burst of flavor, a bit of heartiness, or a touch of lovely color to your bowl.

• Chicken breasts (1 ½ to 2 pounds): The star of the soup, providing juicy, tender protein that soaks up all the seasonings.
• Shredded carrots (1 ½ cups): Adds subtle sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
• Minced garlic (3 cloves): Gives a lovely aromatic base that perks up every bite.
• Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): A mild herb to brighten the flavor.
• Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Brings a gentle, sweet-earthy note.
• Celery salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory depth with a hint of celery’s freshness.
• Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that balances the creaminess.
• Bay leaf (1 leaf): Infuses the broth with a layer of herbal sophistication.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season the soup perfectly to your taste.
• Chicken stock or broth (5 cups): The flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
• Half-and-half (1 cup): Gives the soup its creamy, dreamy texture.
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the soup without heaviness.
• Potato gnocchi (16 ounces): Soft, pillowy morsels that soak up the savory broth beautifully.
• Fresh spinach (1 cup, chopped): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, healthy punch just before serving.

How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Start by arranging your chicken breasts in the bottom of a large (6-quart) slow cooker. Top them with shredded carrots and minced garlic, then sprinkle all the dried herbs and spices — parsley, basil, celery salt, nutmeg, and a whole bay leaf. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pour the chicken stock or broth over everything, cover it with the lid, and set the slow cooker on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. This slow, low heat allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Slurry and Add Gnocchi

Once your chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and discard the bay leaf. Whisk the cornstarch into the half-and-half until smooth — this slurry will thicken the soup without lumps. Stir the slurry into the soup pot along with the gnocchi. Return the slow cooker to a HIGH setting and give it a moment to start thickening and cook the gnocchi until it’s tender and pillowy, which usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Final Touches

While the gnocchi is cooking, chop or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Stir the chicken back into the soup, then add the chopped fresh spinach, covering the slow cooker again to let it wilt gently. This final step adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, then it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe even more inviting, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few cracks of black pepper. A small drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting finishing touch for those who enjoy a little heat or extra richness.

Side Dishes

This soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but if you want to elevate the experience, serve it alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad. The crisp freshness of the salad or the buttery crunch of the bread pairs beautifully with the creamy soup, turning your meal into a well-rounded feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for an irresistible presentation kids and adults will love alike. You can also portion it in attractive glass jars or rustic bowls when entertaining, making it look just as good as it tastes when served to guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers fresh by storing the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors without any hassle.

Freezing

Freezing the Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is possible, but since gnocchi can change texture when frozen and reheated, it’s best to freeze the soup without it. Store the soup base in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then add fresh gnocchi when you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. Add fresh gnocchi near the end of reheating and cook until tender, then stir in fresh spinach or other desired greens just before serving to bring the soup back to life.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll want to increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender before shredding.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the half-and-half with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative, and use a thickening agent like arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch if preferred.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw?

While raw chicken works best for tender, juicy results, you can use pre-cooked chicken; just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm through without overcooking.

What can I substitute for potato gnocchi?

If you don’t have gnocchi, small dumplings, mini pasta shapes like ditalini, or even cooked small potatoes can work well as alternatives.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy but not overly thick — the cornstarch slurry helps it achieve a luscious consistency that coats the spoon without being heavy, but you can adjust thickness to your preference by adding more broth or thickener.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough trying out this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, flavorful, and fuss-free meals that bring comfort straight to your table. Once you experience the melt-in-your-mouth chicken, the pillowy gnocchi, and that cozy creamy broth infused with herbs, you’ll wonder why you ever waited so long to make it at home. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with soup all over again!

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