Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. I absolutely love how easy it is to whip up and how it brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this soup, you’ll be craving it again and again!

The best part? This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. So gather your loved ones and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for those hectic days when you need something hearty but don’t have hours to spare.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the flavors in this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s a sure hit at the dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for an effortless meal later in the week.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, rich broth, and pillowy gnocchi creates an irresistible flavor that’s truly comforting.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the star players in our Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with flavor.

For the Soup

• 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
• 1 package (16 ounces mini potato gnocchi
• 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)

Variations

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of shredded chicken for a quick alternative.
• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some diced celery or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it creamy: If you love creamy soups, add a splash more milk or even some heavy cream for richness.
• Switch up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil to give your soup a unique twist.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Melt Butter and Oil

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt your butter along with olive oil over medium heat. This combination adds depth to your soup and prevents the butter from burning. The aroma will fill your kitchen as you start cooking!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add your chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them until the onions become translucent. Sautéing these veggies helps release their natural sweetness, enhancing your soup’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Create a Roux

Whisk in your flour into the veggie mixture. Let it cook for about a minute while stirring continuously. This step creates a roux that will help thicken your soup beautifully when combined with broth.

Step 4: Add Broth

Slowly stir in your chicken broth while continuing to whisk. Bring this mixture to a light simmer until it starts to thicken slightly. This step forms the base of your soup, providing that comforting warmth we all crave.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi

While your broth simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. Cooking them separately ensures they stay tender when added to the soup.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to make everything come together! Pour in your milk into the broth mixture and bring it back to a gentle boil. Stir in salt, pepper, parsley flakes, gnocchi, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer until heated through and thickened—this takes just a few minutes!

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me; you’ll want every last drop!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this comforting soup can be incredibly rewarding, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your cooking game!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves you time and still gives that tender, delicious flavor.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer after adding the milk. This will enhance the flavors while creating a heartier consistency.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like celery or bell peppers! They not only add nutrition but also bring in different textures and flavors.

• Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen: While fresh spinach adds a lovely texture and bright color, frozen spinach is perfectly fine too—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat for best results!

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be presented beautifully to impress your family or guests. Here are some ideas to make your serving extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the soup’s creamy texture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Some grated cheese on top enhances the flavor profile and gives a delightful richness.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping! The crispy crust of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the soup with its zesty dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a colorful, nutritious addition to your meal that complements the flavors of the soup well.
• Caprese Salad: The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze brings brightness that harmonizes with the hearty soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup will surely be a hit at any table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Note: The texture of the gnocchi may change after freezing, but it will still taste delicious!

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a pot over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup.

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

Yes! While this recipe uses mini potato gnocchi, you can experiment with other varieties like spinach or whole wheat gnocchi. Just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

How do I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save you time. Just shred it and add it during the cooking process when you mix in the milk and seasonings.

What goes well with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or freshly baked breadsticks. It makes for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so have fun in your kitchen! Happy cooking!