Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, you’ve found it with this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit! The creamy texture and delightful gnocchi will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is how it brings people together. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with tender chicken and soft gnocchi!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it, saving time on hectic days.
• Delicious Flavor: With the combination of savory chicken broth, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic, each spoonful bursts with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items to create a comforting bowl of soup that the whole family will adore.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 4 Tbs butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup carrots (shredded)
• 2 tsp parsley flakes
• Salt and pepper for seasoning

For the Gnocchi

• 1 package (16 ounces mini potato gnocchi)

For the Greens

• 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey if that’s what you have available.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped celery or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it creamy: For an even richer soup, add a splash of cream or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a little kick!

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt your butter along with the olive oil. Once melted, toss in the onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent—this step is important because sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your soup.

Step 2: Create the Broth Base

Now it’s time to whisk in the flour! Let it cook for about a minute before slowly stirring in your chicken broth. This will help thicken up your soup as it simmers. Keep an eye on it as it starts to bubble; we want it thick but still soupy!

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While your broth is simmering away, prepare the gnocchi according to package directions. Drain them well and set them aside. Cooking them separately ensures they stay fluffy when added later.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your milk into the pot with the vegetable and broth mixture. Bring this beautiful concoction to a boil before stirring in your salt, pepper, parsley flakes, and seasonings.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Chicken

Once boiling, reduce the heat and gently fold in the cooked gnocchi along with fresh spinach and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer until heated through; this step melds all those wonderful flavors together!

And there you have it—your own delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze, and these tips will help you elevate your cooking game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for organic produce if possible, as it enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Don’t rush the cooking process: Allowing the onions to caramelize fully adds depth to your soup. Take your time with this step for a richer flavor profile.

• Thicken it to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour. Adjusting the thickness can transform the texture to your family’s preference.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This not only boosts nutrition but also provides an extra layer of flavor.

• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste better after sitting for a day. Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge for an even tastier meal.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While avoiding animal-derived products, consider offering nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative that gives a cheesy flavor without compromising dietary needs.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Nothing complements soup quite like warm, crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth.

• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a tangy dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasoning seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs before roasting brings out their natural sweetness and offers a great side packed with nutrients.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy option that balances out the richness of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors all week long. You can cook up a big batch and store it for later, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• When freezing, consider portioning out individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup thickens while reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of gnocchi in Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! While mini potato gnocchi is traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties like whole wheat or gluten-free gnocchi. Just follow package instructions for cooking.

How do I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy all the creamy goodness!

What can I serve with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. You might even consider adding a sprinkling of cheese on top for extra flavor!

How long does Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is great for making ahead of time. Just be sure to store leftovers correctly and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, I’m sure it will become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!