Easy set-and-forget version perfect for busy nights
There’s something about Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that screams comfort without the fuss.
If you’ve had it at Olive Garden, you know the creamy bowl I’m talking about.
But let’s be honest – most nights, I don’t have the time or energy to stand over the stove.
This Olive Garden Style chicken recipe lets you dump, stir, and forget while the slow cooker does the heavy lifting. Dinner ready. Kids happy. Dishes minimal. That’s a win in my book.
Why This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Works
I’ve tried a few versions floating online, but they all feel… copy-paste. Here’s where mine stands out:
- I’m not one to just pour in cream and hope it works out. I build flavor from the bottom up.
- I add a hit of nutmeg – yep, that’s the secret. It lifts the creaminess without overpowering.
- Fresh spinach at the end keeps it vibrant, not soggy.
- And instead of waiting to shred chicken later, I season it right before dropping it in. More flavor, less work later.
Busy parents don’t want “restaurant copycats.” We want real dinner ideas that fit into life. This is one of those keepers.
Ingredients Needed To Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Style)
(Serves 6)
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you like richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 3 ribs celery, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (trust me on this)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt + black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions To Make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Style)
Step 1: Load the Crockpot
Rub your chicken with a good pinch of salt, pepper, and some Italian seasoning.
Toss it into the slow cooker with onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, and nutmeg. Lid on. Set to LOW for 6 hours (or HIGH for 3 or 4).
Forget it while you get life done – school runs, work emails, or just a rare 20 minutes of peace.
Step 2: Shred & Return
When the chicken’s fall-apart tender, grab it with tongs and set it aside.
Shred with two forks – it’ll practically fall apart. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. This is where the flavor really deepens.
Step 3: Add the Gnocchi
Stir in the gnocchi straight from the package. Let it cook in the hot broth for about 15–20 minutes. They’ll puff up slightly and turn pillowy-soft.
Step 4: Cream & Spinach
Pour in half-and-half. If you like it extra thick, stir in the cornstarch slurry now. Add the fresh spinach and watch it wilt beautifully in just a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Taste Test
Grab a spoon. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder if you like bold. This is your kitchen – own it.
Tips from a Dad Who’s Cooked This Too Many Times
- Kids picky about spinach? Chop it smaller so it blends in.
- Want it heartier? Sub in chicken thighs for that richer bite.
- Short on gnocchi? Small pasta like orecchiette works, though it won’t be quite the same “Olive Garden Style.”
- Got leftovers? It thickens in the fridge, so splash in a little broth before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the thing: cooking shouldn’t feel like a performance.
A Crockpot chicken recipe like this proves you don’t need to be a pro chef to serve up something soul-warming.
If you’ve ever thought “I don’t have time for homemade soup,” this flips that idea on its head.
What I’ve learned is that slow cooking isn’t just about convenience – it’s about reclaiming those evening hours with family. And honestly, that’s the biggest win – not just the soup
