As the chill of winter settles in, I find myself reaching for comforting recipes that warm both belly and soul. This is how I stumbled upon the delightful Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent, yet surprisingly simple to whip up at home. Imagine the delicate aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with a creamy broth and the mellow chew of tender gnocchi, all coming together in a symphony of flavors that evoke the warmth of a cozy kitchen.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at your next family gathering, it never fails to impress. Within just 30 minutes, you’ll have a rich, satisfying soup that brings a little slice of Olive Garden right to your table. So dust off that apron and get ready to create a meal that feels as special as it is comforting!
Why will you love Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Creamy Comfort: This soup envelops you in a rich, velvety broth that warms the heart and soothes the soul, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings.
Quick & Easy: With cooking time under 30 minutes, you can make this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly: Packed with tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, and vibrant spinach, it appeals to both kids and adults alike, turning dinner into a joyful family affair.
Versatile Options: Customize your soup by swapping in seasonal vegetables or adjusting the protein, catering to your family’s taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or alongside crusty bread—you’re guaranteed to impress your guests with this comforting classic!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the broth; consider replacing it with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Diced Celery – Provides crunch and subtle sweetness to the soup; no specific substitution noted.
• Yellow Onion – Enhances the depth of flavor; shallots can offer a milder taste if preferred.
• Fresh Garlic – Delivers aromatic flavor to the dish; in a pinch, garlic powder can serve as a substitute.
• Shredded Carrots – Contributes sweetness and a pop of color; parsnips can replace them if needed.
• Chicken Broth – The essential soup base adding savory flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the soup for a hearty consistency; feel free to omit for a lighter broth.
• Fresh Thyme – Adds a fragrant herbal note to brighten the soup; dried thyme is an easy substitute (use 1 teaspoon).
For the Main Ingredients
• Gnocchi – The star of the show, it provides delightful texture and heartiness; both fresh and frozen varieties work well.
• Cooked and Shredded Chicken – Provides protein; rotisserie chicken is a convenient time-saver option.
• Fresh Spinach – Adds nutrition and vibrant color to the soup; kale can be a good substitute if desired.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture, perfect for indulgence; consider half-and-half for a lighter version.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready to make a warm bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that your whole family will love!
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced celery, onion, garlic, and shredded carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. You want them fragrant and just beginning to caramelize for added depth.
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Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and whisk in cornstarch and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat slightly. This step ensures your soup is flavorful and thickens beautifully.
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Cook Gnocchi and Chicken: Stir in the gnocchi and cooked chicken. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender and fluffy. Make sure to check the texture; they should be soft but not mushy.
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Incorporate Spinach and Cream: Add fresh spinach and heavy cream, cooking until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. This adds a lovely color and richness, making the soup comforting.
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Season & Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with any fresh herbs you like! It’s that cozy and inviting!
Optional: Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
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Prep Ingredients Ahead: Save time by chopping all your vegetables before starting; this keeps the cooking process smooth and quick.
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Watch the Heat: Keep the heat at medium; high heat can overcook the gnocchi and lead to a mushy texture, ruining the soup.
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Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, experiment with using half-and-half or omit the cream entirely for a brothy version.
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Store Properly: If there are leftovers, store the soup separately from the gnocchi. They can absorb too much liquid and become soggy.
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Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat and stir occasionally. This prevents the cream from curdling and keeps your soup perfectly smooth.
What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Warm up your dinner table with delightful pairings that make your comforting bowl of soup an unforgettable meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a loaf of warm, crusty bread enhances the soup’s creamy texture and soaks up every delicious drop.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Indulge in these buttery, garlicky treats that echo the flavors of Olive Garden, elevating your dining experience to a restaurant level.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a delightful crunch and a pop of color, brightening the bowl while maintaining its cozy feel.
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken: For meat lovers, this crispy chicken adds protein and a crunchy layer that’s both satisfying and savory next to the soup.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, this aromatic rice dish complements the creamy soup while absorbing its delightful flavors.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm apple crisp, offering a sweet and comforting dessert that ties the whole meal together perfectly.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate, allowing the rich flavors of the soup to shine throughout your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks eager to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables (celery, onion, garlic, and carrots) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cooked and shredded chicken can also be prepped in advance, making your soup assembly quicker. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting bowl, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the broth and seasonings, then stir in the gnocchi and chicken. Finish with spinach and cream for a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as when you made it!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting recipe—your taste buds will thank you!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich yet dairy-free twist, perfect for those with lactose intolerance.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and use additional veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s still satisfying.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that elevates the creamy broth and adds depth to your soup.
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Herbal Infusion: Swap thyme for fresh basil or rosemary to impart a different aromatic flavor that brightens the entire dish.
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More Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or carrots for a burst of color and added nutrition—it’s a wonderful way to customize your soup!
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Gnocchi Alternatives: Use small pasta shapes or tortellini if you’re looking for a fun twist on texture, while keeping the soup hearty and filling.
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Lighter Option: Replace half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk, reducing calories without sacrificing that rich, creamy goodness you love.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements the creamy broth.
Each of these variations will bring a new dimension to your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, ensuring every bowl feels like a warm hug tailored to your taste!
How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the soup fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you crave comforting goodness.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the soup without gnocchi in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove and add fresh gnocchi when ready to serve.
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on low heat to avoid curdling the cream, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Leftover Gnocchi: For the best texture, store leftover gnocchi separately from the soup and consume within 2 days. This prevents them from becoming too soft when reheated.
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right gnocchi?
When selecting gnocchi, look for brands that are made from quality ingredients. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, check for any visible freezer burn or packaging damage. Fresh gnocchi typically yields the best texture and flavor, so I recommend trying that if available.
How do I store leftover Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! To store leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.
Can I freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can! If you want to freeze this beautiful soup, I suggest freezing it without the gnocchi to maintain texture. Pour the cooled soup into an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on low heat and add freshly cooked gnocchi.
What should I do if my soup becomes too thick?
If you find your soup has thickened too much upon reheating, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or water, stir well, and continue to heat on low until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help to loosen it without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed. This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup contains dairy and gluten (from the gnocchi), so be cautious if you have allergies. For gluten-free diets, opt for gluten-free gnocchi, and you can use a dairy-free cream alternative to cater to lactose intolerance. Always feel free to get creative and customize it for your needs!
How long does the gnocchi last after cooking?
Cooked gnocchi should be consumed within 2 days if stored properly in the fridge. Ensure they’re kept separate from the soup to avoid becoming overly soft. Reheat them gently in a skillet with a little sauce or water for the best texture.
Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced celery, onion, garlic, and shredded carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and whisk in cornstarch and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat slightly.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cooked chicken. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender.
- Add fresh spinach and heavy cream, cooking until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.