Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe: If you’ve ever set foot inside an Olive Garden restaurant, you already know how irresistible their Chicken Gnocchi Soup is. This creamy, hearty bowl of comfort has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many, and for good reason.
Why This Soup is a Fan Favorite
There’s something magical about the combination of pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and savory broth enriched with cream and vegetables. It’s filling without being heavy, and rich without being overwhelming. That’s a balance that not every soup can achieve!
The first spoonful warms you from the inside out. The gnocchi are like tiny dumplings of joy floating in a luscious, flavorful broth. Plus, it’s packed with veggies like spinach and carrots, giving it a wholesome edge. Whether you’re under the weather, hosting a cozy dinner, or just craving something delicious, this soup hits the spot every single time.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This soup isn’t just for cold winter nights (although it’s perfect then, too). It’s a versatile dish you can serve year-round. Hosting a casual get-together? Chicken Gnocchi Soup makes a great starter or even a main course when paired with salad and breadsticks—keeping that classic Olive Garden feel at home!
Ingredients Needed for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Getting ready to make this magical soup at home? You’ll need a few key ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs will be juicier, but breasts are leaner.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi makes this super easy. You can find them in the pasta aisle.
- Vegetables: You’ll need carrots, celery, onion, and fresh spinach.
- Broth: Chicken broth forms the base of the soup. Use a good quality one for the best flavor.
- Cream: Heavy cream gives it that rich, luxurious texture.
- Butter and Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that aromatic punch.
- Seasonings: Thyme, salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a wonderful umami depth.
- Nutmeg: A tiny pinch can enhance the creaminess.
- Crumbled Bacon: For a smoky twist.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil for garnish.
Equipment You’ll Need
Before diving in, make sure you have the right tools to make cooking a breeze.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping your veggies and chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key!
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir everything to perfection.
Helpful Extras
- Ladle: Makes serving a lot easier.
- Immersion Blender: If you like a slightly smoother texture.
- Grater: For fresh parmesan cheese if you’re adding it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ready to bring this restaurant favorite to your own table? Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients
Start by finely dicing your onions, celery, and carrots (the classic mirepoix base). Mince the garlic and set it aside. Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
Prep your gnocchi by following the package instructions if needed—some brands require pre-cooking, but many are ready to drop straight into the soup.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Heat a splash of olive oil and a pat of butter in your soup pot over medium heat. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on the outside and cooked through (no pink inside), then transfer them to a plate. They’ll finish soaking up flavor when added back into the soup later.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add another small knob of butter if needed, and throw in the onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are soft and the onions are translucent. Then add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Pour in your chicken broth and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cooked chicken pieces and your seasonings (thyme, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using).
Step 4: Adding the Gnocchi and Finishing Touches
Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering broth. Let them cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top. That’s how you know they’re done!
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup—it only takes a minute or two. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
For an extra special touch, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese and stir to melt.
And there you have it—rich, creamy, homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s just as good (if not better!) than Olive Garden’s!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Making Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home isn’t complicated, but a few insider tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable.
How to Keep Gnocchi from Getting Soggy
Gnocchi are delicate little potato pillows, and if they sit in soup for too long, they can get mushy. Here’s how to keep them perfectly tender:
- Cook gnocchi separately if you plan to store leftovers. Add them to individual bowls and ladle the soup over them.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi in the soup—just wait until they float, then serve promptly.
- Use good-quality gnocchi: Higher-quality brands hold their shape better.
Following these tips will keep your soup fresh and lively, even if you’re enjoying it the next day!
Adjusting Creaminess to Your Liking
Not everyone likes their soup equally thick or creamy, so here’s how you can customize:
- For thicker soup: Add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the veggies after sautéing them. Cook it for a minute before adding the broth.
- For thinner soup: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or add extra chicken broth at the end.
- For extra creamy soup: Stir in a bit more heavy cream or even a dollop of cream cheese.
Personalizing the texture is one of the best parts of making this recipe at home!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’ll definitely want to store and reheat them the right way to preserve that cozy, fresh-made taste.
- Refrigeration: Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze soup with gnocchi, as they can become mushy. If you want to freeze it, freeze the base (without gnocchi and spinach) and add those fresh when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to thin it out.
A little care goes a long way in keeping your Chicken Gnocchi Soup tasting like it just came out of the kitchen!
FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup made of?
Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup features tender roasted chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, carrots, celery, and a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s a hearty and comforting Italian-style soup that’s packed with rich flavors.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the soup?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It saves time and adds extra flavor to your Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just shred the chicken and stir it into the soup when you’re almost done cooking.
How do I store leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to avoid breaking down the creamy texture.
Can I freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, but with caution. Because the soup contains dairy and gnocchi, it may change texture after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing the soup base without the gnocchi and adding freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating.
Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?
Typically, it is not gluten-free because most gnocchi are made with flour. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and verifying that your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I make the soup healthier?
Yes! You can lighten it up by using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, adding more vegetables like kale or mushrooms, and using a leaner cut of chicken breast.
What can I serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This hearty soup pairs perfectly with warm breadsticks, a fresh garden salad, or a slice of rustic Italian bread for dipping. It’s a satisfying meal all on its own or a great starter for an Italian feast.
Conclusion
Making Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is easier than you might think, and honestly, it’s way more satisfying. You control the ingredients, the flavors, and the texture, customizing every bowl to your liking. Whether you’re serving it for a hearty family dinner or prepping it for a week of cozy lunches, this recipe brings that restaurant-quality magic straight to your kitchen. Next time you’re craving comfort, skip the drive to Olive Garden and whip up a batch of this delightful, soul-warming soup instead. Your tastebuds (and your wallet) will thank you!
