Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further! This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cherished recipe in my home. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a creamy broth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

What I love most about this soup is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Trust me; once you try this copycat recipe, you’ll want to keep it on rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prep takes just 10 minutes, so it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you need dinner fast.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the creamy texture and hearty flavors, making it a go-to for family gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served alongside some crusty bread for dipping.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and reheat when needed—just as delicious!
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken and gnocchi in a creamy broth makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should feel approachable and fun! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup using simple, wholesome ingredients.

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 Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: If you want to switch things up, try using cooked turkey or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it creamy without milk: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version that’s still rich and delicious.
• Boost flavor with spices: Add some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the soup’s flavor profile.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Start with the Base

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt your butter along with olive oil. This combination adds richness to your soup while preventing the butter from burning. Once melted, throw in your chopped onions, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness, which really elevates your dish.

Step 2: Thicken It Up

Next, whisk in your flour and let it cook for about a minute. This creates a roux that will help thicken your soup beautifully. Slowly stir in the chicken broth while simmering until it starts to thicken up nicely. It’s essential not to rush this step; letting it simmer allows those wonderful flavors to develop.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While your soup base simmers away, cook your gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain them once they’re done cooking and set them aside. This little bit of multitasking keeps things moving smoothly!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to add creaminess! Pour in your milk into the veggie and broth mix while bringing everything to a gentle boil. Stir in salt, pepper, and parsley flakes for seasoning—this will keep your soup flavorful without overpowering its comforting nature.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once boiling, reduce the heat before adding in those fluffy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer together until heated through and thickened. The spinach will wilt beautifully into the soup!

And there you have it—the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that will surely become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For extra convenience, opt for rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It saves time and adds rich flavor to your soup.

• Don’t Skip the Flour: When you whisk in the flour, it helps thicken the soup beautifully. This step ensures a creamy texture, making every spoonful delightful.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach and carrots not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your soup. Fresh produce makes a noticeable difference!

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and parsley flakes according to your preference. Personalizing the seasoning will make it feel like your own special recipe.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer after adding all ingredients helps meld the flavors together. The result is a more robust and satisfying dish.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving up this delicious soup can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While not an animal-derived product, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives for a sprinkle of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Its crunchy texture complements the smoothness of the soup wonderfully.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing element to balance out the richness of the soup. The crunch from romaine and croutons makes every bite enjoyable.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make for a colorful side that adds both flavor and nutrition.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These delightful bites filled with herbs and breadcrumbs pair seamlessly with the comforting flavors of your soup, providing a tasty contrast in texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family or friends with your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it store well, but it also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label your container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consume within a month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about this delightful recipe:

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and saves you time. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.

How can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, substitute shredded chicken with chickpeas or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add extra vegetables to my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

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 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen! It’s a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations. Happy cooking!