Okay, friends, let me tell you about a soup. Not just any soup, but *the* soup. The one that warms you from the inside out, the one that’s so comforting you’d swear your grandma made it – even if your grandma never set foot near a gnocchi. I’m talking about the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe! It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, it’s packed with tender chicken and those little pillowy potato dumplings. Seriously, think of it as the cozier, more sophisticated cousin of Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s the kind of meal you crave on a chilly evening, curled up on the couch with a good book (or, let’s be honest, binge-watching your favorite show). I swear, one spoonful and you’ll be transported straight to carb heaven.

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

So, what exactly *is* Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Think of it as a warm hug in a bowl. It’s essentially a creamy chicken soup, but instead of noodles, it features soft, slightly chewy potato gnocchi. The base is a rich, velvety broth, often infused with herbs and aromatics. It’s like if Chicken Pot Pie and Italian dumplings had a delicious, soupy baby. The original comes from Olive Garden, of course, and it’s one of their most popular soups for a reason! It’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Seriously, don’t let the “gnocchi” part intimidate you. It’s way simpler than it sounds, I promise! It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend lunch.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Alright, buckle up because I’m about to tell you all the reasons why this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to.

• Flavor Explosion: The creamy broth is the star. It’s rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. The chicken adds a hearty, comforting element, and the gnocchi…oh, the gnocchi! They’re like little clouds of potato-y goodness that soak up all that amazing flavor. I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg, it just elevates the flavor to another level!
• Surprisingly Simple: Don’t let the fancy name fool you. This recipe is ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, if you can boil water, you can make this soup. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the whole thing comes together in under an hour. This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Compared to ordering takeout or going out to eat, this soup is a steal. Chicken is relatively inexpensive, and gnocchi can be found at most grocery stores for a reasonable price. Plus, you can easily customize it with veggies you already have on hand.
• Versatile & Customizable: This soup is like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t have spinach? Throw in some kale or Swiss chard. Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! I even tested this with almond milk once (because I was out of cream) and it was still ridiculously delicious!

What I love most about this soup is that it’s comforting and satisfying without being heavy. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s right up there with my other favorite comfort food recipes, like lasagna and chicken Pot Pie, but it’s way quicker and easier to make. And let’s be real, it’s so much better than anything you can get in a can!

How do I make olive garden chicken gnocchi soup?

Quick Overview

Making this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is easier than you think. You’ll start by sautéing some veggies, then you’ll add chicken broth and shredded chicken. Next, you’ll stir in the gnocchi and let them cook until tender. Finally, you’ll add cream and spinach for a rich, flavorful finish. The magic ingredient? A little bit of nutmeg. Trust me on this one! It adds a warmth and depth that takes the soup to the next level. Seriously, it’s so simple, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t been making it all along!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and flavor. You can substitute with butter if you prefer.
* 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a savory base flavor.
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
* 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds depth and complexity to the broth.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic will work in a pinch.
* 6 cups chicken broth: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor. I prefer low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note.
* ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Compliments the chicken flavor beautifully.
* Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously!
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You can also use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
* 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi: Find these in the pasta aisle of your grocery store.
* 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be as creamy.
* 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds nutrients and a pop of color.
* ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: The secret ingredient! Don’t skip it.
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and visual appeal.

What are the steps in

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your soup. Don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Add the chicken broth and the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. This is your chance to customize the flavor to your preference.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes. Bring the soup back to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the chicken is tender. What should I do if I’m cooking for 20-25 minutes The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks. When the chicken is shredded, add the water to the pot. This is where the magic happens. What is the best way to prepare shredded chicken?

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Stir in the gnocchi and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes. When the gnocchi are done, they will float to the surface. Do not overcook them, or they will become mushy.

Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir well. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Don’t let the soup boil after adding the cream, or it may curdle. What is the key to an authentic Olive Garden flavor?

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

What is the best soup to serve with fresh parsley? Is this soup good the next day? I always make a big batch so I can have leftovers for lunch.

5. What to Serve It With

What should I serve it with?

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a complete meal in itself, but it’s even better. When paired with the right accompaniments.For a light lunch:What’s a good side salad to serve with this soup? The fresh greens will balance out the richness of the soup.What is a hearty dinner?Serve with crusty bread for dipping. What’s the best way to soak up all that delicious broth? I like to use a baguette or Italian bread.For a Crowd-Pleasing MealAdd cheese and charcuterie board to the table. What are the flavors and textures of this dish?For a Cozy Night In:What is the best way to serve a cocktail with scotch or wine? What are some good white wines to pair with this creamy soup? My family loves it with a simple grilled cheese sandwich. What is the ultimate comfort food? I always make garlic bread, and it’s always a hit!

What are some of the best tips for making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

What is the best chicken gnocchi soup recipe? What are the little tweaks and tips I’ve learned over countless batches.Chicken Perfection: WhatWhy don’t you overcook chicken? Use a meat thermometer and pull it out when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Can you poach chicken separately in chicken broth for an even more tender result? Is poaching the most tender chicken?Veggie Prep:What vegetables should I cut into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. And don’t skip the sautéing step! Is it essential to develop the flavor base of soup? Is it safe to give onions, carrots, celery a good 5 minutes to soften? What is the difference in the end result?What is GnocchiDon’t overcook gnocchi! They should be tender but still slightly chewy. When they float to the surface, they’re done. Overcooked gnocchi will be mushy and unpleasant. I always start checking them after 3 minutes to make sure they’re perfect.Creamy Goodness:For the creamiest soup, use heavy cream. If you’re watching your calories, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the soup won’t be as good. Don’t let the soup boil after adding the cream, or it may curdle. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar texture.Seasoning Secrets:Don’t be afraid to season generously! Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of soup. Why don’t we forget about nutmeg? What is the secret ingredient that gives this soup its signature olive garden flavor? I always add a little extra just because I love the warmth it brings.Ingredient Swaps:Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Carrots, celery, and onion are the classic trio, but you can also add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. If you are vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.Baking Tips:If you’re making a large batch of soup, it’s just as good reheated! Is it safe to store it in an airtight container? Can you freeze it for longer storage? Just be aware that the cream may separate slightly when it’s thawed.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Okay, let’s talk about how to keep this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you need a comforting bowl.

Room Temperature: I really don’t recommend leaving this soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Because of the dairy content, it can spoil pretty quickly.

Refrigerator Storage: This soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I like to use glass containers because they don’t absorb odors or flavors.

Freezer Instructions: This soup freezes really well! To freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when it freezes. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating: You can reheat this soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. To reheat on the stovetop, simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. To reheat in the microwave, heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat it, or the cream may curdle.

A pro tip I always follow: If the soup seems a little thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, friends! My version of the famous Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that just makes you feel good from the inside out. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my creamy tomato soup or my hearty vegetable soup. And if you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your variations and tips. Happy cooking!