Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and rich flavors, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe shines when you want a satisfying dish that warms the soul. Enjoy this easy-to-make soup that’s guaranteed to impress your guests and keep your family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of chicken, gnocchi, and heavy cream creates a luxurious taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a hearty main course or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.
• Comforting Dish: Ideal for chilly nights or when you need a little comfort food.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make this recipe a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the heart of the recipe; it allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors.
• Chef’s Knife: A reliable knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the heavy cream and cornstarch smoothly, avoiding lumps in your soup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create this delicious Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 cup celery, finely sliced (about two stalks)
• ¾ cup shredded carrots
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low or no sodium recommended)
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Creamy Finish

• 16 ounce package potato gnocchi
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Serving

• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by adding the chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer on the diced onion, celery, carrots, garlic, thyme, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add Liquid and Cook

Pour in the chicken broth over all ingredients. Cover with the lid. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Incorporate Gnocchi

Return the shredded chicken back to the crock pot. Add in the potato gnocchi.

Step 5: Create Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your soup and stir well to combine.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

Cover again and set your slow cooker to high. Let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken up.

Step 7: Add Fresh Spinach

Incorporate chopped spinach into the soup while it’s still hot. Stir gently until wilted (about two minutes). Serve hot with shredded parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a comforting dish for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory touch and is great for dipping into the soup.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic flavor that complements the soup nicely.

With Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan: Serve with shredded parmesan cheese on top for added creaminess and depth of flavor.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can create a gooey texture when stirred into the hot soup.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup will ensure it’s always a hit. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking.

• Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor of the soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning levels according to your preference for a tailored flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and taste.
• Experiment with Gnocchi: Try using different types of gnocchi, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, to suit dietary needs.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: Allowing the soup to slow cook for longer develops deeper flavors, making every spoonful richer.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your dining experience. Consider these complementary options.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that balances the richness of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making them a perfect side option.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices can be a hearty addition to your meal.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the soup’s creamy texture.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is light yet flavorful, enhancing your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this delicious Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough salt and pepper can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings before serving.
• Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the crock pot too long can make it dry. Follow the recommended cooking times for juicy, tender chicken.
• Not properly thickening the soup: Forgetting to mix cornstarch with cream can result in a watery soup. Always whisk it together before adding it to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Adding gnocchi too early: If you add gnocchi at the beginning, they may become mushy. Wait until near the end of cooking to keep them firm and flavorful.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley or spinach can reduce flavor. Always include these at the end for added freshness and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• To freeze, place cooled soup in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for different flavors while maintaining a delicious soup.

How do I make this soup healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or replace it with coconut milk for a lighter version without compromising on taste.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only creamy and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. We encourage you to try this simple recipe that brings comfort food right into your home!