Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide 🥣🍗📝
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a soup with gnocchi that combines rich flavors, tender Italian dumplings, and hearty ingredients, then you are in the right place. This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is a perfect example of a delicious winter supper idea that warms the soul and satisfies the entire family. Whether you’re looking for a quick winter dinner idea or a comforting classic dinner, this recipe hits all the marks. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and soft gnocchi, you’ll be cravings for this dish every week. Plus, it’s easy to make, and ideal for those busy weeknights when you want a hot and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
2. Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Soup with Gnocchi
Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Chicken and Broth
Stir in shredded cooked chicken, then pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to let flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This is the perfect opportunity to incorporate cheesy or creamy elements for an extra layer of richness.
Add Milk and Spinach
Stir in the whole milk or heavy cream to make the soup creamy. Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted, creating a nutritious boost to your soup.
4. Storage Tips for Your Soup with Gnocchi
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for future quick meals.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Winter Dinner
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is best enjoyed with crusty bread or a side salad. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with [cheesy garlic bread](https://recipeswonders.com/pancake-sausage-casserole/) or a simple [green salad](https://recipeswonders.com/soup). It makes an excellent winter dinner for kids, as well as a comforting choice for those chilly nights when you crave a quick winter dinner idea.
6. Variations and Customizations
For a gnocchi hamburger soup twist, add some chopped cooked sausage or ground beef. To make this a gnocchi crockpot recipe, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. You can also add additional vegetables like zucchini or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
7. Why Choose This Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
This soup with gnocchi is a versatile, easy-to-make meal that captures the essence of comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for winter supper ideas that don’t require hours of prep.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this chicken gnocchi soup vegan?
While this recipe is designed with chicken and dairy, you can substitute the chicken with plant-based protein and use coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan version. For more vegan dinner options, check our dinner recipes.
How do I keep the gnocchi from getting mushy?
Add the gnocchi during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they stay tender and plump without absorbing too much liquid. You can also cook the gnocchi separately and add them just before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen after cooking, but the gnocchi may become softer upon reheating. For best results, add fresh gnocchi when reheating. More freezing tips can be found in our chicken noodle soup guide.
9. Conclusion
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe combines comforting textures with rich flavors for an unforgettable soup with gnocchi experience. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and nourishing ingredients make it an ideal choice for winter dinners. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warm, delicious goodness that feels like a hug in a bowl!
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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Discover the delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe that combines tender gnocchi, savory chicken, and fresh vegetables in a creamy broth. Perfect for warming up on cold winter nights, this hearty soup recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Ideal for a quick dinner or comforting family meal, enjoy this classic gnocchi soup with a rich and velvety texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in shredded cooked chicken, then pour in chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, season with salt and pepper.
- Add gnocchi to the soup and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Stir in whole milk or heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.
- Cook the gnocchi separately if you want to prevent mushiness upon reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: thirty-five grams
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
