Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to brighten up a chilly day or comfort you after a long one. This copycat recipe delivers all the rich flavors and hearty textures of the restaurant favorite, made right in your kitchen.

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I first fell in love with this soup on a family night out at Olive Garden, and I couldn’t resist recreating it at home. Now it’s a staple in our house, perfect for cozy evenings or when we’re craving something indulgent but simple to make. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible homemade soup. Not only does it bring the same creamy goodness as the original, but it also offers some exciting perks of its own.

First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and about 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve. That’s a win for busy weeknights when convenience is key.

It’s also budget-friendly. By using simple, everyday ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that feeds the whole family without stretching your wallet.

This soup is a true comfort food classic. The creamy broth, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables combine to create a dish that’s both filling and satisfying.

And let’s not forget its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences, whether by adding extra veggies or swapping in a different protein. It’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a perfectly balanced dish.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. They cook quickly and shred beautifully, but rotisserie chicken or chicken thighs work just as well if you have them on hand.

Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi is a convenient choice that makes this recipe a breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own gnocchi for a truly homemade touch.

Vegetables: Diced carrots, celery, and onions add a fresh and aromatic base to the soup. I also include spinach for a pop of color and nutrients.

Broth and Cream: A mix of chicken broth and heavy cream creates the rich, velvety soup base. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, but the heavy cream truly delivers that Olive Garden signature taste.

Seasonings: Simple seasonings like garlic, thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

No special equipment is needed—just a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking, and you’re good to go!

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup at home is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by cooking the chicken. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add your chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the pot, shred with two forks, and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté your aromatics. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they’re softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma.

Next, build the soup base by adding chicken broth and seasonings. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before stirring in the gnocchi. Let the gnocchi cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top, signaling they’re done.

Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, along with fresh spinach. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the soup is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s thickened.

For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Note that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon thawing, but it will still taste delicious. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This soup is endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Protein swap: Try cooked Italian sausage or diced turkey instead of chicken for a new flavor twist.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with cannellini beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a plant-based option.
• Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
• Gluten-free: Look for gluten-free gnocchi or substitute diced potatoes for a gluten-free alternative.
• Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and increase the vegetable content for a lighter take.

Don’t be afraid to make this soup your own—it’s forgiving and works well with whatever ingredients you have on hand.

With this homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, you’ll bring the comforting taste of the restaurant right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a dish that’s sure to delight. Enjoy!

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