Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings warmth to your home, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just perfect! It’s a dish that wraps you in comfort, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup has become a favorite in my household. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, which means more time spent enjoying with family and friends.

This soup is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply whipping up dinner for yourself, everyone will love the hearty goodness packed into each bowl. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this soup. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find. You can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, allowing for an effortless meal on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. You probably have many of these items in your kitchen already!

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

One of the best things about this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped celery or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Creamier base: For an even richer soup, add a splash of cream or use half-and-half instead of milk.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced green chilies.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large dutch oven or stock pot, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent—this step is crucial because it helps develop their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Create the Base

Next, whisk in your flour and let it cook for about a minute. This helps thicken our soup later on. Gradually stir in the chicken broth while simmering, allowing it to slowly thicken up into a rich base that will hold all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While your soup base simmers away, prepare the gnocchi according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. Cooking them separately ensures they stay fluffy and don’t absorb too much liquid from the soup.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add your milk to the veggie and chicken broth mixture and bring it to a gentle boil. Don’t forget to stir in your seasonings at this stage; they will elevate the flavors beautifully!

Step 5: Final Touches

Once boiling, reduce the heat and gently fold in your gnocchi, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken. Let everything simmer together until heated through and thickened—a comforting bowl of goodness awaits!

And there you have it! A warm bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that feels like a hug from the inside out. Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your soup to a whole new level!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: Chop your vegetables and shred the chicken beforehand. This saves time during cooking and makes the process smoother.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and give your soup a vibrant taste.

• Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux. Conversely, if you like it lighter, add more broth.

• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to add more herbs or spices that suit your palate! A dash of Italian seasoning or some red pepper flakes can spice things up.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when served!

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While avoiding animal-derived gelatin, a sprinkle of plant-based Parmesan adds a savory depth.
• Croutons: Add a crunchy texture by topping with homemade or store-bought croutons for added contrast.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the creamy texture wonderfully.

• Caesar Salad (Vegan): A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a vegan Caesar dressing provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots bring vibrant colors and flavors that perfectly accompany the hearty gnocchi soup.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the warm soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every creamy spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prepping! Not only does it save well, but the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious for later meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan to store it longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting soup!

Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage guidelines above for optimal taste.

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

You can easily substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or even use chickpeas or tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Both will add great texture and flavor!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use gluten-free gnocchi to make this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re serving it up on a chilly evening or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experiences with me!