Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and savory flavors. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy family dinners, this soup brings warmth to any occasion. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that stands out for its rich texture and satisfying taste. Enjoy this hearty bowl of soup any time of the year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Combining fresh vegetables and seasonings creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Comfort Food Classic: This soup offers all the comfort of traditional Italian cuisine in one bowl.
• Nutritious Fill: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, this soup is both filling and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

To make your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper
• for serving grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add the dried thyme and basil.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi

Add the shredded chicken and gnocchi. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting nature. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate the meal, making it even more enjoyable for family and friends.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these flakes bring a spicy kick.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic bread: This classic pairing complements the creamy soup perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop.
• Crusty rolls: Soft rolls offer a comforting bite that pairs beautifully with the soup’s texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adding a layer of Parmesan enhances the flavor profile and adds richness to each bowl.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melted mozzarella can create a wonderfully gooey topping that’s hard to resist.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To achieve the best results when making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide better flavor compared to dried or canned options.
• Pre-cook the gnocchi: If you want extra pillowy gnocchi, cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
• Adjust creaminess: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Add more veggies: Boost nutrition by incorporating other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions to complement this delicious soup:

1. Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Caprese salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil balances the richness of the soup nicely.
3. Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add smoky flavors that pair well with the hearty soup.
4. Stuffed mushrooms: These savory bites serve as an elegant appetizer alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
5. Zucchini fritters: Crispy fritters bring an added crunch and flavor that complements your meal perfectly.
6. Antipasto platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, be aware of these common mistakes.

• Ignoring vegetable prep: Properly dicing the vegetables ensures even cooking and enhances the soup’s texture. Take your time to chop them uniformly.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly; overcooking can make it mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove the pot from heat as soon as they float.
• Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly for a flavorful dish.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Using homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth can greatly enhance the taste.
• Forgetting fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and flavor. Don’t skip it; add it at the end for maximum freshness and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, gnocchi may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, hearty Italian-inspired soup made with shredded chicken, tender gnocchi, and fresh vegetables.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! You can add other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini or swap out the chicken for turkey or beef for different flavors.

How do I thicken Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, you can let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).

Is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?

Using gluten-free gnocchi makes this soup gluten-free. Always check labels on packaged ingredients for any hidden gluten sources.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just comforting but also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warm flavors!