Want a trust copycat recipe that everyone will love? This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy, flavorful, and completely addicting. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this soup combines tender chicken, hearty gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth that warms the soul. Whether you’re planning a family meal or a comforting night in, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and chicken broth creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant dish.
- Comforting & Hearty: This soup is not only filling but also provides warmth on chilly days, making it a perfect comfort food option.
- Versatile Ingredients: By using common pantry staples, you can whip up this soup whenever the craving strikes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the soft gnocchi and tender chicken, making it great for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience easier and more efficient, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some items you’ll need to prepare this fantastic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot: Ideal for making soups as it holds ample ingredients and distributes heat evenly.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing flour into your broth smoothly to avoid lumps.
- Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
Ingredients
Want a trust copycat recipe that everyone will love? This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy, flavorful, and completely addicting.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
– 1 Tbs olive oil
– 4 Tbs butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 small onion (chopped)
– 2 garlic cloves (minced)
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup carrots (shredded)
– 2 tsp parsley flakes
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– 1 package (16 ounces) mini potato gnocchi
– 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Melt Butter and Oil
In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat until bubbly.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Add the chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic.
- Cook until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Thicken the Broth
- Whisk in the flour until combined.
- Let cook for about one minute while stirring constantly.
- Slowly stir in the chicken broth and simmer until it starts to thicken up.
Step 4: Prepare the Gnocchi
Meanwhile, cook your gnocchi according to package directions. Once done, drain them and set aside.
Step 5: Add Milk and Seasonings
- Pour in the milk into your vegetable mixture.
- Bring it to a boil while stirring gently.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and parsley flakes for seasoning.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Once boiling:
Reduce heat to low.
Add in the cooked gnocchi, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken.
Simmer until everything is heated through and the soup thickens slightly.
Now you have a delightful bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Serving Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience. This creamy, hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.
With Freshly Baked Bread
- Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich flavors beautifully.
Topped with Parmesan Cheese
- Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This adds a savory kick that complements the soup’s creaminess.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for an added burst of color and flavor. It elevates the presentation and taste.
With a Side Salad
- Serve alongside a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup nicely.
In Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant touch, serve in individual bowls. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Accompanied by Wine
- Pair your soup with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay. The wine enhances the meal’s overall flavor experience.
How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To ensure your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips:
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality broth make a significant difference in flavor. Always choose high-quality products for the best results.
Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Follow package instructions carefully to avoid mushy gnocchi. They should remain tender yet firm when added to the soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference to achieve the perfect balance.
Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding milk to prevent curdling. Keep an eye on the heat level during this stage.
Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
If you’re looking for side dishes that pair well with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, here are some delicious options:
Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements soups perfectly. Toast slices with butter and minced garlic for added flavor.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy soup.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant appetizer alongside your soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender offer a healthy side dish option that enhances your meal’s nutritional value.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs add an extra layer of flavor to your dining experience.
Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates a flavorful starter before enjoying the main dish.
Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with fresh veggies adds texture and variety while still being easy to prepare ahead of time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the sautéing step: This mistake can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Always sauté your onions, garlic, and carrots until softened for the best taste.
- Not measuring ingredients: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the soup’s consistency. Measure accurately to ensure a delicious outcome.
- Overcooking gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and add it at the right time.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting is essential. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
- Using low-quality chicken broth: The broth significantly impacts flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for a richer taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, gnocchi may change texture after freezing.
Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25 minutes.
- Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
What makes Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup special?
The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy broth creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is hard to resist.
Can I customize my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes! You can add vegetables like peas or corn or even substitute sausage for the chicken to mix things up.
How do I thicken my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
If the soup is too thin, you can whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water or allow it to simmer longer until it thickens naturally.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup stores well and can be prepared in advance for easy lunches during the week.
Final Thoughts
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a comfort food treat, this recipe is sure to please family and friends alike. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Looking for a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Olive Garden right to your kitchen? This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, heartwarming delight packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach. It’s the perfect meal for cozy nights at home or when entertaining friends and family. With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful soup that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup carrots (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 ounces mini potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic until onions are translucent.
- Whisk in the flour for one minute then gradually stir in the chicken broth; simmer until thickened.
- Cook gnocchi as per package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Stir in milk, salt, pepper, and parsley into the vegetable mixture; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and add cooked gnocchi, spinach, and shredded chicken; simmer until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
