When you think of a warm hug in a bowl, what comes to mind? For many of us, it’s the rich, creamy indulgence of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Imagine a savory broth filled with tender chicken pieces swimming amidst fluffy gnocchi that practically melts in your mouth. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, you’ll find it hard to resist diving in head first.
My first encounter with this heavenly dish was during a chilly winter evening when I desperately needed comfort food. As I stirred my bubbling pot of goodness, memories flooded back of family gatherings where laughter and warmth filled the air—making this soup a staple in our household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting soup is incredibly easy to prepare and will warm your heart in no time
- The flavor profile combines savory chicken and herbaceous notes that dance on your palate
- Visually appealing with its creamy texture and vibrant colors makes it perfect for any dinner table
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main dish is bound to please everyone!
I remember making this for a family gathering one snowy evening; everyone raved about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd’s appetite.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; they add a lovely kick.
- Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach wilted into the soup adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi works wonders here; just ensure they are fresh for the best texture.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the soup luxuriously rich; don’t skimp on this!
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping that chicken essence alive.
- Carrots and Celery: These veggies provide sweetness and crunch; chop them finely for even cooking.
- Dried Thyme and Parsley: These herbs add depth; feel free to use fresh if you have them on hand.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously to taste; these staples are essential in bringing out all the flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté those Veggies!: Start by heating up a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil followed by minced garlic until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds.
Add Your Chicken!: Toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken breast; cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes should do nicely.
Pour in Broth!: Introduce your chicken broth along with chopped carrots and celery. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.
The Creamy Part!: Stir in heavy cream along with dried thyme and parsley; allow it to simmer further for another 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
Add Gnocchi!: Toss in the fresh gnocchi along with baby spinach; cook until the gnocchi floats to the surface—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Season it Right!: Taste your masterpiece and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving every comforting bite!
Now you have mastered a bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s not only easy but downright delicious! Enjoy every spoonful as laughter fills your home once more.
You Must Know
- This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is rich, creamy, and comforting
- Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a hug in a bowl
- The blend of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the gnocchi while simmering the broth for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add extra veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid gummy gnocchi.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to elevate the soup’s aroma
- Avoid overcooking gnocchi; they should float but remain tender
- If you want creaminess without heaviness, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
Sometimes, I whip up this soup just to witness my friends’ delighted reactions—it’s truly heartwarming to see their smiles!
FAQ
Can I use frozen gnocchi in Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works beautifully and saves time during prep.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can replace chicken with turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
How long does Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that warms your soul with every spoonful. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh garlic
- Baby spinach
- Gnocchi
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Carrots
- Celery
- Dried thyme and parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth along with chopped carrots and celery; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, dried thyme, and parsley; simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add gnocchi and spinach; cook until gnocchi floats to the surface (about 3-4 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute chicken with turkey or add extra vegetables like mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.