Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A Taste of Italy: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm and hearty dish that reminds you of cozy dinners at Olive Garden, the Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful soup is packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. In this article, we’ll walk you through creating this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

To create your own bowl of Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Gnocchi and Spinach

  1. Carefully add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. Here’s where the magic happens—cooking the gnocchi adds a wonderful texture to your soup!
  2. After about 3-5 minutes, when the gnocchi begins to float, stir in the fresh spinach.
  3. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Step 4: Creamy Finish

  1. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an extra 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  2. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or a side salad to complete your meal.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

  • Homemade vs. Store-bought: If you have time, making your own chicken broth can elevate the flavor of the soup.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, feel free to add a little extra broth or water while reheating.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup recipe brings the flavors of Italy right to your home, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Perfect for chilly evenings or a family gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. So why not whip up a pot of this delicious soup today and bask in its comforting warmth? Buon Appetito!