There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Whenever I step into their cozy dining room, the aroma of this creamy, hearty soup never fails to draw me in. It’s become a favorite for its perfect blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables.
But did you know you don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy it? I’ve spent countless afternoons perfecting a copycat recipe that captures all the magic of the original. Whether you’re craving a taste of your favorite Italian eatery or simply looking to create a soul-satisfying meal at home, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
Let me guide you through making this delicious Olive Garden-style Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Prep
I start by dicing one onion, slicing two carrots, and chopping two celery stalks. Next, I mince three garlic cloves and cut two boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Finally, I wash and spin two cups of fresh spinach.
Cook
I heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then, I add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. I sauté the vegetables for about five minutes until they soften. Next, I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. I add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they’re no longer pink. After that, I pour in six cups of chicken broth, one teaspoon of dried basil, one teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for ten minutes.
Assemble
I add two packages of potato gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about three to five minutes. Then, I stir in one cup of heavy cream and the fresh spinach. I let the soup simmer for an additional two to three minutes until the gnocchi are tender and the spinach has wilted. I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Tools Needed
To create my copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll want to have the following tools on hand. These essentials ensure a smooth cooking process and delicious results every time.
Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
- Perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup to perfection.
Cutting Board and Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Essential for dicing onions, slicing carrots, and chopping celery with precision.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors in the soup.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ladle
- Handy for serving the soup into bowls with ease.
Long-handled Ladle or Slotted Spoon
- Useful for removing any foam or excess fat during the cooking process.
Colander
- Necessary for washing fresh spinach and draining excess liquid if needed.
Stovetop or Induction Cooktop
- Reliable heat source to bring all the flavors together.
- Helps keep track of simmering times to ensure everything is cooked just right.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing this Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time can save you time and make your meal even more convenient. Here’s how I ensure the soup maintains its rich flavors and delightful textures when made in advance.
Preparing the Soup Ahead
- Cook the Soup Completely
- Follow the recipe steps to cook the soup fully. Ensure all ingredients are tender and flavors are well combined.
- Cool the Soup Properly
- Allow the soup to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Transfer the soup to shallow containers to speed up the cooling process.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Storing the Soup
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
- Refrigeration: Store the cooled soup in airtight containers. Label them with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freezing: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can also portion the soup into individual servings for easy reheating.
Reheating the Soup
- From Refrigerator
- Pour the desired amount of soup into a saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- From Freezer
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat using the stovetop method above.
- Alternatively, for quicker thawing, place the container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
- Using a Microwave
- Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat on high in 2-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Overcooking Gnocchi: If making ahead, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and adding them just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Fresh Spinach: Add fresh spinach when reheating to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: After reheating, taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup anytime without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
When serving my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, I love to elevate the experience with a few thoughtful accompaniments. A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly, providing the ideal crunch to complement the creamy soup. Sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a burst of flavor and vibrant color that makes the dish irresistibly appetizing.
For a well-rounded meal, I often serve this soup alongside a crisp Caesar salad. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons balance the richness of the soup beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a light grilled sandwich to round out the plate.
To enhance the dining experience, a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken and gnocchi. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon adds a refreshing touch.
Finally, garnishing with a swirl of heavy cream or a few fresh spinach leaves before serving not only adds visual appeal but also enriches the soup’s texture. These simple touches transform a comforting bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup into a delightful and memorable meal.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a comforting meal. Sharing this recipe with you has been a pleasure and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
