Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to make you feel cozy and content. This creamy, hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, making it the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening.

I remember the first time I tried this soup at Olive Garden – it was love at first bite! After many attempts, I finally recreated a version that’s just as delicious as the restaurant original. Now, it’s a staple in our house, especially during the colder months. Let me show you how to make this comforting classic.

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible soup recipe. It’s a comforting classic that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant but is surprisingly simple to make at home.

First, it’s a one-pot wonder. No juggling multiple pans or complicated steps—everything comes together in one pot for easy cleanup.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a starter, it’s guaranteed to impress. It’s filling enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Don’t forget the leftovers! This soup reheats like a dream, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.

Best of all, it’s packed with rich, creamy flavors that everyone loves. The tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, and savory broth will have your family asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to its rich flavor and comforting texture.

Gnocchi: These tender, pillowy dumplings are the star of the soup. You can find them in the pasta section of most grocery stores. Fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi both work well.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are best for this recipe. You can cook them fresh or use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.

Vegetables: A mix of carrots, celery, and spinach gives the soup its classic flavor and vibrant color. Chop the carrots and celery into small, even pieces so they cook evenly.

Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness and a velvety texture to the soup. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, but the result won’t be quite as luxurious.

Chicken Broth: Use a high-quality broth for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, add a touch of chicken bouillon or a splash of white wine to the broth.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning to round out the flavors. A large Dutch oven or stockpot is perfect for making this recipe.

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this delicious soup at home is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by sautéing your aromatics. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the vegetables are fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Next, cook your chicken. Add diced chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you’re using cooked rotisserie chicken, you can add it later when the soup is simmering.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add sliced carrots and your gnocchi, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gnocchi to cook through.

Stir in the spinach and heavy cream, letting them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. The spinach should wilt beautifully, and the cream will give the soup its signature richness.

Finally, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for extra flair.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezer: While the soup freezes well, the gnocchi may lose some of its texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and adding it when reheating.

When reheating, warm the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Try using ground chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more spinach or even some mushrooms for extra heartiness.

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.

Gluten-Free: Many brands offer gluten-free gnocchi, so you can easily make this soup suitable for gluten-free diets.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of the restaurant to your home. Experiment with flavors, get creative, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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