If you’re a fan of cozy comforts and rich flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s a warm, creamy bowl filled with tender shredded chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach, all perfectly seasoned with herbs that transport you straight to your favorite Italian eatery. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want a nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this soup combines simple ingredients to create something truly special and heartwarming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that pack a big flavor punch. Each component plays a crucial role—making the soup comforting, creamy, and delightfully textured.
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded: Provides the hearty protein base that makes the soup satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 onion, chopped: Offers a sweet and savory foundation once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with warm, fragrant depth.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that brings all ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and velvety.
- 2 cups spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and nutrition.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers a subtle earthiness that complements the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a pine-like aroma for complexity.
- 1 package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade): Soft potato dumplings that give the soup its signature comfort.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant, building a savory base that’s bursting with aroma.
Step 2: Build the Creamy Broth
Next, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, chopped spinach, dried thyme, and rosemary. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. This step is where the soup starts to come alive with its signature creamy texture and subtle herbal notes.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Add your gnocchi to the bubbling broth and cook them according to the package instructions, which is usually about 3 to 4 minutes until they float to the surface. This ensures your gnocchi are perfectly tender and pillowy.
Step 4: Add the Shredded Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to heat through and marry with the creamy broth, turning each bite into a satisfying delight.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Finally, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. The right seasoning brings all the flavors into perfect harmony, making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe truly memorable.
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Serving with garnishes elevates the presentation and adds extra layers of flavor. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or a few extra fresh spinach leaves on top for a simple but elegant touch. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper also adds visual appeal and bold accents.
Side Dishes
This soup shines best with sides that complement its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. Crusty bread or garlic knots are ideal for dipping, while a light green salad can add a refreshing contrast to the richness. If you want to keep everything Italian-inspired, pair it with a classic Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe at a gathering, consider ladling it into mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic look. Or pour the soup into clear mugs for an inviting autumn brunch spread. These little presentations make your dish feel extra special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its rich flavor or creamy texture, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.
Freezing
While cream-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe freezes reasonably well if handled carefully. Freeze in a suitable airtight container for up to 2 months. To prevent texture issues, avoid adding gnocchi before freezing; add it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess and prevent burning. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add fresh gnocchi during the reheating stage to keep them tender and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked fresh chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook frozen chicken breasts thoroughly before shredding and adding them to the soup. Just make sure they’re fully cooked to ensure safety and the best texture.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch. However, the soup will be less creamy and slightly different in flavor, but still delicious.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme and rosemary?
Fresh herbs work wonderfully in this recipe and often add a brighter, more vibrant taste. Use about double the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried to maintain flavor balance.
What kind of gnocchi works best?
Store-bought gnocchi is a great time-saver and tastes fantastic. If you want to take it up a notch, homemade gnocchi brings a lovely homemade touch, but either works perfectly in this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, carrots, or peas can be a great addition, but be mindful of their cooking times so they remain tender and don’t overpower the delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe truly feels like a little bowl of magic, combining creamy, savory, and fresh elements in every comforting spoonful. It’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough to share with friends and family. I promise once you try making this at home, it will quickly become your new favorite go-to soup that brings warmth and happiness every time.
Print
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and creamy dish featuring tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a savory herb-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines simple ingredients with a rich texture and delightful flavors reminiscent of classic Italian-inspired soups.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare the base of the soup.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, chopped spinach, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil to combine the flavors.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the boiling soup and cook according to package directions, typically 3–4 minutes, until they float to the surface.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with extra spinach, fresh herbs, or grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Fresh gnocchi can be substituted if available; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adding freshly grated parmesan on top enhances the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
