Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup, especially on a chilly evening. Inspired by Olive Garden’s iconic version, this creamy, comforting soup combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a velvety broth. The result is a dish that's rich, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

I first recreated this recipe during a nostalgic craving for restaurant-style comfort food. To my surprise, it was a hit from the very first attempt, and now it's a regular on our dinner table. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Prepare to fall head over heels for this homemade take on a restaurant classic. It’s a soup that checks all the boxes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

First, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques – just one pot and some simple ingredients to create a creamy masterpiece in under an hour.

Next, it's versatile and family-friendly. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to clean out your fridge, this soup adapts beautifully. Toss in leftover chicken or swap the spinach for kale – it all works!

The flavor is out of this world. The savory broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi create a texture and taste combination that’s truly irresistible.

Lastly, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep. With affordable ingredients and freezer-friendly portions, this recipe makes weeknight dinners or lunches a breeze.

So, if you’re ready to bring the Olive Garden experience home, let’s get started with the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its fresh, wholesome ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:

• Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for their quick cooking time and tender texture. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great too.
• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy gnocchi is the star of the dish. You can find pre-packaged gnocchi in the pasta aisle, or use homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a twist.
• Vegetables: Diced onion, celery, and carrots create a classic soup base. Don’t skip the minced garlic for its aromatic depth.
• Chicken Broth and Cream: The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates that signature velvety texture. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half.
• Seasonings: Dried thyme and parsley bring subtle earthy notes, while salt and pepper round out the flavors.

Special Equipment

All you need is a large soup pot or Dutch oven for this recipe. A ladle and sharp knife will make prep and serving a breeze.

How to Make This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup at home is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.

1. Cook the Chicken: Begin by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and shred once cool enough to handle.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté diced onion, celery, and carrots until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Build the Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and parsley, letting the flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
4. Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Stir in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top and the spinach wilts.
5. Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Let the soup gently heat through, but avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Total Time

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and the end result is a creamy, hearty soup that everyone will love.

Storage Options

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Leave out the cream before freezing and add it when reheating to maintain the best texture.
• Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are some creative twists to try:

• Protein Swap: Use diced turkey, Italian sausage, or even shrimp for a different protein option.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, plant-based option.
• Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can enhance the flavor. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Gluten-Free: Look for gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute to make the soup dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this soup your own!

Now that you have the recipe for Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. This soup is the perfect combination of cozy and indulgent, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad, and enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food in the comfort of your own kitchen.

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