We all love Olive Garden's creamy chicken gnocchi soup but making frequent trips to the restaurant isn't always practical. That's why we've perfected an easy crockpot version that captures all those comforting flavors right in your kitchen.
Our simplified slow cooker recipe delivers the same rich and satisfying experience without the hassle. With tender chunks of chicken tender potato gnocchi and fresh vegetables swimming in a velvety broth you'll create restaurant-quality soup with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
What Makes This Copycat Olive Garden Soup Special
Our crockpot version captures the signature elements of Olive Garden's beloved chicken gnocchi soup while adding convenient twists. The slow cooking process infuses the cream-based broth with rich flavors from herbs, creating an authentic restaurant-style taste.
Three key features distinguish this copycat recipe:
Enhanced Flavor Development- The extended cooking time allows chicken to release its natural juicesHerbs blend thoroughly into the creamy baseVegetables soften gradually, adding depth to the broth
- Potato gnocchi maintains its pillowy consistencyShredded chicken remains tender throughoutVegetables retain their form without becoming mushy
- One-pot cooking eliminates multiple dishesNo pre-cooking or sautéing requiredDump-and-go convenience saves time
The combination of quality ingredients and slow cooking creates layers of flavor that mirror the original:
IngredientFunctionFlavor ImpactHeavy CreamBaseRich, velvety textureFresh ThymeSeasoningEarthy, aromatic notesParmesanGarnishSharp, salty finishThis adaptation delivers the same creamy consistency, hearty texture, and savory taste that made the original version famous, with the added benefit of hands-free preparation.
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Creating Olive Garden's chicken gnocchi soup in a crockpot requires specific ingredients best chicken soup from olive garden to achieve that signature creamy texture and rich flavor. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the key components and their variations.
Fresh vs Store-Bought Gnocchi Options
Store-bought potato gnocchi (16 ounces) provides convenience olive garden gnocchi soup no chicken and consistent results in this crockpot recipe. Here are the options:
- Shelf-Stable Gnocchi: Found in pasta aisles, lasts longer Refrigerated Gnocchi: Located near fresh pasta, offers better texture Cauliflower Gnocchi: Creates a keto-friendly alternative with fewer carbs Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients
Best Chicken Cuts to Use
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 pounds) create the foundation for this soup. Consider these cuts:
- Chicken Breasts: Create lean, tender shreds when slow-cooked Chicken Thighs: Offer richer flavor and stay moist Chicken Tenderloins: Cook faster and shred easily Pre-Cut Chunks: Save preparation time
Step-by-Step Crockpot Instructions
Creating this Olive Garden copycat soup in a crockpot requires strategic layering of ingredients and precise timing. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor.
Prep Work and Layering
Place raw chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpotAdd diced onions carrots celery garlic in even layersPour chicken stock over the vegetablesSprinkle Italian herbs thyme salt pepper on topCover the crockpot with lid ensuring proper sealCooking Time and Temperature
SettingDurationInternal TempLow6 hours165°FHigh4 hours165°FStart with initial cooking phase:- Set crockpot temperatureCook until chicken reaches 165°FAvoid lifting lid during cooking
- Remove chicken at halfway pointShred with two forksReturn to crockpot immediately
- Check broth consistency hourlyAdd extra stock if neededMaintain soup-like consistency
Tips for Rich and Creamy Restaurant-Style Results
Creating a restaurant-quality chicken gnocchi soup in your crockpot requires attention to specific techniques and ingredient handling. These proven methods ensure a rich, creamy texture that mirrors Olive Garden's signature dish.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Add cream during the final 30 minutes of cooking to prevent curdlingUse potato gnocchi from the refrigerated section for optimal texture retentionShred chicken when it reaches 165°F internal temperatureLayer vegetables at the bottom to prevent overcookingMonitor liquid levels throughout cooking time
Pro Tips for Texture Control:
- Cut vegetables in uniform sizes (½ inch pieces)Test gnocchi doneness by floating testMaintain a gentle simmerStir occasionally without breaking gnocchiKeep lid closed during final 30 minutes
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup starts with cooling the soup to room temperature. Place the cooled soup in airtight containers for refrigeration up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
The soup maintains its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months when stored properly. Here's how to freeze effectively:
- Transfer the room-temperature soup to freezer-safe containersLeave 1 inch of space at the top for expansionLabel containers with the dateStore at 0°F or below
Reheating Methods
Two effective methods ensure optimal reheating results:
Stovetop Method:
- Pour soup into a saucepanHeat on medium-low temperatureStir occasionally until heated through
- Place soup in a microwave-safe bowlHeat at 50% power in 1-minute intervalsStir between intervals to distribute heat evenly
Conclusion
We're confident this crockpot version of Olive Garden's chicken gnocchi soup will become a staple in your recipe collection. It's the perfect blend of convenience and comfort that brings restaurant quality right to your dinner table.
With minimal prep work and the magic of slow cooking you'll create a creamy hearty soup that rivals the original. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.
Give this easy crockpot adaptation a try and discover why it's earned its place as one of our most popular comfort food recipes. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!