Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for the perfect cozy dish to warm up your day, look no further than this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi that bring a little taste of Italy right to your kitchen. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

I love how this soup is both comforting and quick to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up even on the busiest of days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes of cook time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and delicious flavors—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Flavorful ingredients: Each bite is packed with wholesome goodness from chicken, vegetables, and gnocchi.
• Comfort food classic: It’s the ultimate cozy dish that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You likely already have most of them in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need to create this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

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

For the Creamy Finish

• 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
• 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey for a quick alternative.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some chopped celery or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor!
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute with almond milk or coconut milk to keep things creamy without dairy.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Add your chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness and forms a lovely base for your soup.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Whisk in your flour into the vegetable mixture. Let it cook for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Slowly stir in your chicken broth while simmering until it starts to thicken. This step helps create that rich, creamy texture we all love in soups!

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While your broth thickens, cook the gnocchi according to package directions in a separate pot. Once they float to the top, they are done! Drain them well and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your milk into the veggie and broth mix, bringing everything back up to a boil. Stir in seasonings like parsley flakes along with salt and pepper. This step adds depth of flavor that makes each spoonful irresistible!

Step 5: Final Touches

Once boiling, reduce heat before gently stirring in your cooked gnocchi, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer until heated through and thickened just right. The spinach will wilt nicely into this comforting soup!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every spoonful as you share this delightful dish with loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup doesn’t have to be daunting; a few simple tips can elevate your cooking game!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavors in your soup, making it taste even more delightful.

• Cook gnocchi separately: Cooking the gnocchi according to package directions ensures they maintain their texture and don’t become overly mushy when added to the soup.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs to make it just right for you.

• Let it simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for a few extra minutes helps blend all the flavors together beautifully. Just be careful not to let it boil over!

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate; just remember to reheat gently to maintain the right consistency.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some great ideas on how to present your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the soup.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For those who enjoy a cheesy twist, adding a little grated Parmesan brings richness and depth without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s perfect for dipping!

• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing balances out the heartiness of the soup.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while offering a nice contrast in texture that works wonderfully alongside this creamy dish.

• Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a deliciously refreshing side that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family or guests with your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or store it for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover gnocchi, keep them in a separate container to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the texture of the gnocchi may change after freezing.
• Consider freezing the soup without gnocchi, then adding freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for quick defrosting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe!

Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian option.

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

This delicious soup will last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen gnocchi in my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi can be added directly to your soup while cooking; just increase your simmer time slightly until they are tender.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This flavorful soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping!

Can I add other vegetables to the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s such a comforting dish that warms both heart and belly. Whether you’re savoring it on a chilly night or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your additions. Happy cooking!