If you have ever craved a comforting, creamy soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dish balances tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach all enveloped in a rich, herb-infused broth that’s both nourishing and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re chasing away the winter blues or simply want a wholesome meal packed with flavor, this recipe captures the essence of cozy homemade goodness with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its beautifully simple ingredient list. Every item plays an essential role, from the fresh vegetables lending sweetness and texture to the creamy broth that brings everything together in perfect harmony.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing your vegetables and building flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that starts the soup off right.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Contributes a gentle natural sweetness and vibrant color for visual appeal.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Offers a slight crunch and savory freshness to balance the creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a bold, fragrant kick that enhances every bite.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The secret thickening agent ensuring your broth has that perfect velvety texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the hearty, flavorful liquid foundation of the soup.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Adds wholesome protein and tender meatiness with every spoonful.
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream: Brings luscious richness and creates the signature creamy consistency.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy morsels that soak up the soup’s flavor beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy note and vibrant green color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides a warm, herbal undertone elevating the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): A subtle touch that enhances the creaminess with gentle warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring balance and brightness.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and cook them slowly until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute more so the aroma fills your kitchen without burning.
Step 2: Create the Base with Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly. This step is crucial to get that beautiful creamy thickness in the soup. Let the flour cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth and Simmer
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This allows the flour to work its magic and the soup to thicken just right, creating that comforting base you’re after.
Step 4: Stir in Chicken, Cream, and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add the tender shredded chicken, the creamy half-and-half, dried thyme, and if you like, a little nutmeg for an extra hint of cozy flavor. Let the soup simmer gently so the flavors meld together beautifully while keeping the creamy texture silky and luscious.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until they float to the surface. This is a sure sign they are perfectly cooked and ready to add their delightful chewiness to the soup experience.
Step 6: Wilt the Spinach
Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 1 to 2 minutes. This adds a fresh, vibrant green pop and a nutritious boost that keeps each spoonful balanced and exciting.
Step 7: Season to Perfection
Finish by seasoning the soup generously with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve warm and get ready to savor a bowl full of silky, comforting delight.
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a sharp, salty contrast. A few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can bring additional layers of flavor and a little color pop that makes the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping, which can soak up that creamy broth perfectly. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic, deep bowls to keep it warm longer and add a homey feel to your meal. For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out mini bread bowls or use small soup crockets for an individual portion that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup holds its creamy texture surprisingly well, so you can look forward to a delicious second helping.
Freezing
If you want to keep soup on hand for longer, freeze it in portion-sized containers. Keep in mind that the gnocchi may become softer after freezing and reheating, but the soup will still be flavorful and comforting.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or separating. Add a splash of cream or broth if it becomes too thick, and enjoy it just as fresh as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cooked chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that works perfectly in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the half-and-half or heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep the soup creamy without dairy.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Potato gnocchi is ideal because it soaks up the soup’s flavors well and has that signature pillowy texture.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
You can prepare the soup base a day ahead and add the gnocchi and spinach just before serving to keep everything fresh.
How do I prevent the gnocchi from overcooking?
Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook; once they float to the top, they’re done. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe that feels like bringing warmth and comfort straight to your table. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi, it’s a recipe that invites cozy moments and happy memories. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to dishes for any occasion.
Print
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and comforting Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup loaded with tender shredded chicken, potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy meal in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Incorporate Broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly and form the soup base.
- Add Chicken and Cream: Stir in the shredded chicken, half-and-half (or heavy cream), dried thyme, and optional nutmeg. Let the soup simmer gently to meld the flavors.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the fresh chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for a richer soup or milk for a lighter version.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with baby kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- For a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the chicken broth slightly.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Use gluten-free flour and gnocchi varieties for a gluten-free adaptation.
