Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Rich and Cozy Italian-Inspired Delight 🥣✨🫒
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, creamy soup that captures the essence of your favorite Italian-inspired restaurant dishes, look no further than this chicken gnocchi soup. Inspired by the classic Olive Garden recipe, this chicken soup combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal, this gnocchi soup delivers on flavor and warmth. Plus, it’s easy to prepare at home with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
2. Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
3. How to Make Creamy Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup
Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set on medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This enhances the depth of flavor for your Italian-inspired soup base.
Build the Broth
Add chicken broth and dried thyme to the sautéed vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Add Gnocchi and Simmer
Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float and become tender. For a creamier texture, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring to combine.
Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For added flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Soup
Serve your chicken gnocchi soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh touch. Consider pairing it with crusty artisan bread or a light side salad for a complete meal. This comforting soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken gnocchi soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or increase the amount of spinach and add plant-based protein options such as cooked chickpeas or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
What if I can’t find fresh gnocchi?
Pre-packaged frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just cook them according to package instructions before adding to the soup. You can find high-quality gnocchi at most grocery stores or online.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal quick and hearty dinner option.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: This versatile cookware set ensures even heating and easy cleanup, perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering soup.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make chopping vegetables faster and safer with this multipurpose tool, streamlining your soup preparation.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: For slow-cooked flavor enhancement or making large quantities for leftovers, this slow cooker is a game-changer.
8. Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Spicy Chile Relleno Soups for Cozy Comfort
- Savory Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
- Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
9. Conclusion
This chicken gnocchi soup is a hearty, creamy dish that warms the soul and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s an ideal comfort food for any day of the week. Whether you’re recreating an Italian classic or just looking for a cozy meal, this recipe will become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to share your culinary creation with friends and family for a nutritious and delicious experience!
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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide
Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich and cozy Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty soup combines simple ingredients for a comforting meal that captures the flavors of your favorite restaurant right at home.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the same pot until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and dried thyme; bring to a simmer. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender and floating.
- Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring to combine.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Frozen gnocchi can be used; cook according to package instructions before adding.
- Adjust seasonings to taste, adding more herbs or cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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