Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, then this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it’s easy to see why. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a family gathering. The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up on any occasion!

Gathering around a bowl of this delightful soup brings everyone together. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just in need of some comfort food, this recipe never disappoints. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a hearty soup! This dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and heat it up when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that are both nourishing and comforting.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe based on your preferences—there are so many ways to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most of them are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for the 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
• 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 Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breasts for an even quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a hearty plant-based version.
• Change the gnocchi: Try using homemade gnocchi if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Base

In a large dutch oven or stock pot, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat. This combination not only adds richness but also helps prevent the butter from burning. Once melted, add your onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent—this will bring out their natural sweetness and build a delicious foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Thicken It Up

Next, whisk in your flour and let it cook for about a minute. This step is crucial as it creates a roux that will help thicken your soup. Gradually stir in your chicken broth while simmering gently until it begins to thicken up nicely.

Step 3: Add Creaminess

Now it’s time to bring in some creaminess! Pour in the milk slowly while stirring constantly. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before adding your seasonings—salt, pepper, and parsley flakes—to enhance all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

While your soup simmers away, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Drain them well before setting aside. Cooking them separately ensures they don’t soak up too much liquid from the soup.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your soup is boiling, reduce the heat and add in the cooked gnocchi along with chopped spinach and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer together until heated through and thickened perfectly—this step allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

With these steps complete, you’re ready to serve up bowls of warm goodness that will leave everyone smiling! Enjoy every savory spoonful of this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about those little touches that enhance the flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only elevate the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your soup, making it more appealing both in taste and presentation.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allowing your onions and garlic to sauté until they are golden brown brings out their natural sugars, adding depth to the overall flavor of the soup.

• Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the milk. Alternatively, if you like it thinner, simply add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat!

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate overnight, and simply reheat before serving for a quick meal that’s packed with flavor.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make every bowl special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the soup.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While avoiding animal-derived gelatin, feel free to use plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast for an added cheesy flavor without compromising dietary preferences.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your delicious soup. The combination is comforting and satisfying!
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can complement the flavors in your soup while providing additional nutrients.
• Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots are an irresistible side that will have everyone reaching for seconds while enjoying their soup!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup will be a delightful centerpiece at any meal. Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can store leftovers or even freeze portions for later use!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers/bags as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Add a splash of milk if needed to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

How can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, replace the chicken with extra vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use homemade gnocchi in Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Using homemade gnocchi will add an extra layer of flavor to your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the soup for best results.

What can I substitute for chicken in Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option while maintaining great flavor in your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

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

When stored properly, Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigeration.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own additions or substitutions. Happy cooking!