Brimming with creamy goodness and tender bites, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is your slow cooker’s ticket to comfort town. Perfect for those busy days when you crave something hearty without the hassle.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding flavors beautifully over hours.
- Gnocchi adds a delightful chewiness that pasta just can’t match.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more relaxation.
- Customizable to your taste, whether you like it more veggie-packed or extra creamy.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop your carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic. This ensures everything cooks evenly and you get a bit of every flavor in each spoonful. Tip: Uniform chopping is key to consistent cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth. The liquid should just cover the ingredients. Tip: Layering helps distribute flavors evenly.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-7 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork. This slow cooking process ensures deep flavor development.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. This step ensures every bite has juicy, flavorful chicken.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Cream
Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender. Tip: Adding gnocchi towards the end prevents it from becoming too mushy.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer soup, consider browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved with slow cooking alone. If you’re short on time, you can cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours instead. For those who prefer a thicker soup, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as slow cooking can mute flavors slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Extra Veggies: Spinach or kale can be added for extra nutrition.
- Creamier Texture: Increase the heavy cream or add a splash of half-and-half.
- Protein Swap: Try turkey or even tofu for a different twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen gnocchi? Yes, frozen gnocchi works just fine. There’s no need to thaw it before adding it to the soup. Just add it directly to the slow cooker as per the instructions.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I make this soup dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy and delicious.
Summary
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Packed with flavor, easy to customize, and perfect for any day of the week.
