Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll love this homemade version that perfectly captures its creamy texture, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables. This soup is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a hearty bowl of goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how easy it is to recreate this classic at home!

What Makes This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Special?

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup stands out for its blend of comforting ingredients. The richness of the half and half, combined with the light, fluffy potato gnocchi, creates a luxurious mouthfeel. The addition of fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, while the diced chicken and vegetables make it a filling and satisfying dish. The result is a soup that’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cooked and diced (approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds)
• 1 stalk of celery – chopped
• ½ white onion – diced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth – can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme – dried or fresh
• 16 ounces potato gnocchi – store-bought or homemade
• 2 cups half and half – you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version
• 1 cup fresh spinach – roughly chopped

Step-by-Step Preparation of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
2. Combine the Ingredients: Add the diced, cooked chicken breasts to the pot along with the chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Gnocchi: Once boiling, carefully add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the gnocchi floats to the top, indicating it is cooked. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
4. Finish with Cream and Spinach: Stir in the half and half and add the chopped spinach. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and is tender. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep a close eye on the gnocchi as it cooks. As soon as they float to the surface, they are done. Overcooking will make them mushy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh spinach and freshly shredded carrots. Pre-shredded carrots can lack moisture and flavor.
• Customize the Creaminess: Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less half and half. For a thicker soup, simmer a bit longer before adding the spinach. For a lighter soup, use milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-salting the Soup: Be cautious with the salt, especially if using regular chicken broth. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Adding Gnocchi Too Early: Adding the gnocchi too early can cause it to overcook and disintegrate in the soup. Add it only after the soup has reached a boil.
• Forgetting to Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning, especially salt and pepper.

How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

For a perfect presentation, serve the Chicken Gnocchi Soup in deep bowls, garnished with a touch of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the creamy richness of the soup. This dish also works well as a starter or a main course.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

To store leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out, as the gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.

Variations and Swaps for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
• Different Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or Swiss chard instead.

FAQs About Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Can I freeze this soup?
  Yes, you can freeze the soup without the gnocchi, as they tend to become mushy when thawed. Cook the soup up to the point of adding the gnocchi, then freeze. When ready to eat, thaw the soup, bring it to a boil, and add fresh gnocchi.
• Can I use rotisserie chicken?
  Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred or chop it and add it to the soup in place of the diced chicken breasts.
• What can I substitute for half and half?
  You can use whole milk, a dairy-free milk (like almond or coconut milk), or even heavy cream for an even richer soup.

Conclusion

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s time to bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant to your kitchen. Try this comforting soup recipe, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you loved this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes!

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