Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that brings the taste of the restaurant right into your home. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is quick and easy, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of half and half and chicken broth creates a luscious base that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this deliciously soothing soup.
• Comforting Flavor: A delightful blend of chicken, gnocchi, and seasonings makes every bowl satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will help streamline your meal prep.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough room for all ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for preparing your ingredients without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is every bit as creamy and delicious as the restaurant version, made in less than 30 minutes!

Protein

• 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced)

Vegetables

• 1 stalk of celery (chopped)
• ½ white onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

Pantry Staples

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon thyme

Noodles

• 16 ounces potato gnocchi

Creaminess

• 2 cups half and half (see note)

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth

Add diced chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil. Gently stir in gnocchi. Boil for 3-4 minutes longer before reducing heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Cook for an additional 10 minutes. Then stir in half and half and spinach. Cook another 1-2 minutes until spinach is tender. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s perfect for any occasion where comfort food is called for.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your dining experience. This creamy delight pairs well with various accompaniments that elevate the meal’s flavor and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s creaminess.
• French Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness to every bowl.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese enhances the soup’s savory notes.

Pairing with Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens add a healthy crunch alongside the rich soup.

Enjoying as a Meal Prep Option

• In Individual Containers: Portion the soup into containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
• Garnished Before Serving: Add fresh spinach or herbs just before serving for a vibrant touch.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To make your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup even better, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and chicken enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt or spices in small amounts can prevent over-seasoning.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For a firmer texture, cook gnocchi in a separate pot before adding it to the soup.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances the flavors, making it richer and more comforting.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring prevents ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
• Add Cream Last: Incorporate half and half at the end to maintain its richness without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Complement your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with delectable side dishes. These options will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that balances well with rich soup.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil brings a burst of flavor to each bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutritional value; roast them until tender.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with cheese and herbs, these are savory bites that pair perfectly with soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses provides variety and excitement to your meal.
6. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta offer another Italian twist to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can result in a bland soup. Always take the time to cook onions, garlic, and celery until they’re soft.
• Using regular chicken broth: Regular chicken broth can make the soup too salty. Opt for low sodium chicken broth for a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. Follow the package instructions and add them near the end of cooking.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to dull flavors. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using cold half and half: Adding cold half and half can cool down your soup. Make sure it’s at room temperature before adding it in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

How do I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months.

What is the best way to reheat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

The stovetop method is recommended for even heating; just warm it gently over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally.

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

It lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other ingredients to this soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize with additional veggies like kale or corn, or even add Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only creamy and delicious but also quick to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!