Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy gnocchi. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup warms both the heart and the soul. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it stands out as an ideal comfort food any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this soup can be on your table in under an hour.
• Flavorful & Hearty: Packed with chicken, vegetables, and spices, each spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a starter or main dish; it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Comforting Texture: The pillowy gnocchi adds a unique texture that elevates this classic soup.
• Easily Adaptable: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are the key items you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and helps prevent spills while stirring.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking and better presentation.

Ingredients

This comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup inspired by Olive Garden is a creamy and hearty dish packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Soup

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream

To Taste

• Salt
• Black pepper

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add the dried thyme and basil to enhance the flavor profile.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth & Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken and gnocchi. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.

Step 4: Finish with Spinach & Cream

Stir in fresh spinach and heavy cream, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this creamy dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Classic garlic breadsticks add a flavorful touch and are perfect for scooping.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
• Shredded Mozzarella – Add a layer of shredded mozzarella for a gooey finish that melts beautifully.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad complements the soup’s creaminess with crisp greens and tangy dressing.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy with a few simple tips. Keep these in mind for a delicious result every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture; always opt for fresh over frozen when possible.
• Cook Gnocchi Carefully – Follow package instructions closely; undercooked gnocchi can be chewy, while overcooked ones may fall apart.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you cook; adjust salt and pepper to match your palate for an optimal flavor profile.
• Add Spinach Last – Stir in fresh spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and nutrient-rich.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a fresh crunch that balances the creamy soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor, making your meal more satisfying.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms create an elegant appetizer that complements the dish perfectly.
4. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers diverse flavors alongside the soup.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a refreshing bite that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
6. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad brings additional textures and flavors, making it a healthy option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables first can lead to a lack of flavor. Always sauté until softened for a richer taste.
• Overcooking gnocchi: If you cook the gnocchi too long, they can become mushy. Monitor them closely; they’re done once they float to the top.
• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and season with salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of this soup. Use a good quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Ignoring cream temperature: Adding cold cream directly can cool down your soup. Warm it slightly before adding for a smoother texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that might help you.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

How can I customize Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap the chicken for turkey for a different flavor profile.

Is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthy?

This soup can be a healthy option when made with lean chicken and plenty of vegetables. Adjusting cream content can also reduce calories.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mixed vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. It’s perfect for any occasion, so don’t hesitate to try making it today!