Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken thighs on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the vegetables to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Pour in chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and squeezed-dry spinach.
- Add the gnocchi to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cook until gnocchi are tender and heated through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Heat through for a few minutes, but do not boil.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For best results, don't overcook the gnocchi. Add them during the last 30 minutes to prevent mushiness. You can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time to prevent dryness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
