Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 7 Comforting Secrets

There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, isn’t there? It’s that feeling of comfort that makes soup a staple in my kitchen, and my absolute favorite has to be the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Oh, the creamy goodness in every spoonful is simply irresistible! I remember the first time I tried it – I was at a family gathering, and my cousin insisted I try her homemade version. One taste, and I was hooked! The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach dancing in a rich broth was pure magic. It instantly took me back to those cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air. Now, I make it for my own family, and each time, it brings back those sweet memories while creating new ones around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become a beloved favorite in your home too!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 package (16 oz / 450 g) gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Prepare Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is simpler than you might think, and trust me, the results are so worth it! Let’s dive into the step-by-step process that’ll have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, gather all your ingredients. It makes the cooking process smoother and less chaotic. Once you’ve got everything at hand, let’s get started!

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. It should shimmer but not smoke—just the right temp to get those veggies cooking.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and starting to smell amazing. This is the base of your soup, so take your time here!

3. Add the Garlic: Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute. You want to be careful not to burn it; the fragrant aroma is what you’re after!

4. Season It Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried basil. These herbs will really elevate the flavor profile. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Your kitchen will start to feel like a cozy Italian bistro at this point!

5. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens. Add in your 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and the entire package (16 oz) of gnocchi. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender. Don’t go wandering off during this time; keep an eye on it!

6. Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy. This is the part where you’ll want to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking.

7. Serve It Up: Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra touch of deliciousness. You’re officially ready to enjoy a big, comforting bowl of goodness!

And there you have it! A bowl of homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s not just comforting but also packed with flavor. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget to share with your loved ones (or keep it all for yourself, I won’t judge!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful soup even on the busiest days!
• Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it the perfect dish for cozy nights in or when you need a little pick-me-up.
• Flavorful Goodness: Each bite bursts with rich flavors from the chicken, herbs, and spices, creating a symphony of taste that’ll have you coming back for more.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or tweak the seasonings to suit your palate. It’s a versatile recipe that you can make your own!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this soup, making it a hit for family dinners and gatherings.

Tips for Success

To make your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup absolutely perfect, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh garlic, herbs, and spinach. The freshness elevates the flavors and makes the soup taste more vibrant!
• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep a close eye on the gnocchi as they cook. You want them tender but not mushy; they should float to the top when they’re ready!
• Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to add a bit more heavy cream or reduce the broth slightly. It’s all about finding that perfect consistency for your taste!
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper at the end to find the right balance. A little sprinkle can make a world of difference.
• Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving can take your soup to the next level. Plus, it looks gorgeous!

Variations

One of the best things about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Veggie Power: Feel free to add in veggies like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for an extra crunch and pop of color!
• Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill instead of dried thyme and basil. Fresh herbs can really brighten the flavors.
• Protein Choices: If you’re looking for a change, try substituting the shredded chicken with cooked sausage or even shrimp for a different twist.
• Gnocchi Alternatives: Don’t have gnocchi? Use small pasta shapes like orzo or mini shells instead; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. It’ll bring a whole new layer of flavor!

With these variations, you can make this soup your own every time, keeping it exciting and delicious!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is super easy! Just let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, it’s best to reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If the soup has thickened a bit in the fridge, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to that creamy consistency. Avoid using the microwave if you can, as it can make the gnocchi a bit mushy. Enjoy your comforting bowl all over again!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body! However, please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. These estimates are based on typical ingredients used in the recipe.

Each serving (1 cup) of this delightful soup contains approximately:

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

These values provide a general idea of what to expect, but don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe to meet your personal dietary needs. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious soup!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor to the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just make sure to add it in during the simmering step to heat it through.

Q2: Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free gnocchi. Just double-check the labels on your broth and gnocchi to ensure they fit your dietary needs.

Q3: How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It will still be creamy and delicious!

Q4: Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! This soup freezes well. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Q5: What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for dipping. It’s also perfect on its own as a hearty meal!

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