Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This creamy, hearty soup features tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to create a rich and flavorful dish. Perfect for cozy family dinners or as a delightful starter for gatherings, this recipe captures the essence of comforting Italian cuisine.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-01T14:30:15.851Z

This soup is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love. It's easy to prepare and makes for a wonderful meal on a chilly night.

The Comfort of Creamy Soups

Soups have a special way of warming our souls, and creamy varieties like this Chicken Gnocchi Soup are no exception. The velvety texture combined with hearty chicken and tender gnocchi makes each spoonful a hug in a bowl. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even swap out the chicken for a protein of your choice, making it perfect for different dietary preferences.

Moreover, the creamy base is achieved through the use of heavy cream, which enriches the flavor and adds a decadent feel. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply irresistible and will make your family gather around the kitchen in anticipation.

Mastering the Art of Gnocchi

Gnocchi, a staple in Italian cuisine, can be easily made from scratch or purchased pre-made for convenience. This fluffy potato pasta adds a comforting element to the soup and absorbs the delicious broth, enhancing the overall flavor. When cooked in broth, they become tender and slightly chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy soup. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own gnocchi at home; it’s a fun activity that can be enjoyed with friends or family.

Cooking gnocchi takes just a few minutes, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Be sure to watch them closely; they're done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. Adding them to the soup just before serving ensures that they maintain their perfect texture while soaking up all the rich flavors of the dish.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a side salad or warm bread can elevate your meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy soup beautifully. For bread, consider serving with a crusty loaf or garlic breadsticks for dipping, enhancing the experience of savoring the soup. These additions also provide a balance of flavors and textures, making your dinner both filling and satisfying.

Additionally, don't forget about beverages! A light, crisp white wine or sparkling water can pair nicely with the richness of the soup, refreshing your palate. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these pairing suggestions will help you create a complete and enjoyable dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups gnocchi
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove from pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Gnocchi

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the gnocchi and cooked chicken back to the pot. Cook until gnocchi are tender, about 5 minutes.

Stir in Cream and Spinach

Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just keep in mind that the gnocchi may absorb some of the broth upon reheating, so you might need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. With these tips, you can enjoy this heartwarming soup for days after first making it!

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to personalize it to cater to your tastes or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still have a rich taste, and you won’t miss the meat. You can also add different vegetables to enhance the nutrient profile, such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Spice lovers might enjoy incorporating some red pepper flakes to add a kick, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The flexibility of this recipe encourages you to experiment and make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.