Cozy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Delight

Recipe By:
Daniel Lawson
Updated:

When the chill of winter hits, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming bowl of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. The creamy broth, loaded with tender chunks of chicken and fluffy gnocchi, warms your soul and fills your kitchen with an aroma that will have everyone flocking to the table. It’s like wearing a cozy blanket made of flavors and nostalgia.

This delightful soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Picture this: you’re gathered around the dinner table, laughter fills the air, and someone inevitably asks for seconds (or thirds). That’s the magic of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup – it’s comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or any occasion that calls for a little extra love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • Its rich flavors and creamy texture create a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy
  • Plus, it looks stunning in any bowl, making dinner feel special
  • Versatile enough for any occasion, it pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad

Everyone loves when I make this soup; my friends always ask for the recipe after their first spoonful!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts is ideal; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.

  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic brings out the best aromas.

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in flavor.

  • Half-and-Half: This adds creaminess; you can substitute with milk if you prefer a lighter version.

  • Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrients; opt for baby spinach for tenderness.

  • Potato Gnocchi: Choose store-bought gnocchi for convenience; they cook quickly and absorb all those flavors.

  • Dried Thyme: A must-have herb here; it complements the chicken beautifully with earthy notes.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all those fantastic flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

**Cook the Chicken**: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and sauté until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

**Sauté Aromatics**: Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—stirring constantly to avoid burning. Your kitchen should smell like heaven right now.

**Add Broth and Seasoning**: Pour in the chicken broth along with dried thyme. Bring everything to a gentle boil while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

**Incorporate Half-and-Half**: Reduce heat to low and stir in half-and-half. Allow it to simmer gently so it thickens slightly without boiling over—it should look luscious!

**Stir in Gnocchi**: Add potato gnocchi into the pot. Cook according to package instructions until they float—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes—and they’ll soak up all that delicious broth.

**Finish with Spinach**: Finally, stir in fresh spinach right before serving. Let it wilt just enough so it’s vibrant yet still holds its color—your bowl will look like art!

Now you have a warm bowl of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup ready to be devoured! Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones or simply treat yourself because you deserve it!

You Must Know

  • Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup is a creamy delight that’s cozy and satisfying
  • The combination of tender gnocchi, savory chicken, and rich broth creates a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings
  • Enjoy the wonderful aroma while it simmers on your stovetop

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add chicken and cook through before incorporating broth, gnocchi, and spinach for a final simmer.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in vegetables like carrots or zucchini. You can also use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep or add spices like red pepper flakes for heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the best texture, don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should float to the top when done
  • Always taste as you go for seasoning adjustments
  • For added depth, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought

Sometimes I make this soup on rainy weekends, and my friends always rave about how it warms their hearts—not just their bellies!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make olive garden chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance; just add fresh ingredients before serving.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Print
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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Warm up your winter evenings with this delightful Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. This creamy, savory bowl is filled with tender chicken, fluffy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach, creating a hearty dish that brings comfort to every table. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your home.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup half-and-half (or milk)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add diced chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown and cooked through (7–10 minutes).
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme. Bring to a gentle boil while scraping the bottom of the pot.
  4. Reduce heat to low, stir in half-and-half, and let simmer gently until thickened.
  5. Add potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float (3–5 minutes).
  6. Stir in fresh spinach just before serving until wilted.
  • Author: DANIEL LAWSON
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1½ cups)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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