If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve undoubtedly experienced the creamy, dreamy magic of their Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s a warm bowl of comfort that combines the heartiness of chicken, the richness of a velvety broth, and soft, pillowy gnocchi that make every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. But did you know you can recreate this famous dish right in your own kitchen? That’s right! With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can enjoy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup without leaving the house.

What’s even better is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to get this dish just right. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. Plus, you can save a ton of money by making it at home instead of constantly ordering out. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

If you’re a fan of creamy soups like our popular Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe. Now, let’s dive into how to make this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

What do you get when you combine tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth? You get the iconic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, of course! But have you ever wondered why it’s called “gnocchi”? Well, here’s the thing: the word “gnocchi” is Italian for “dumplings”—and these little dumplings are the unsung heroes of this comforting soup.

The story behind the name is simple. The dish is inspired by Italian flavors but has been perfected to suit American tastes. It’s so beloved, it’s practically an Olive Garden signature! Some might even say that the way to a man’s heart is through this soup! So, if you haven’t tried making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a spoon and dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There are plenty of reasons why Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a family favorite, but here are three that stand out.

First: It’s all about the richness. The creamy broth, combined with tender chicken and soft gnocchi, creates a soup that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. You’ll find yourself wanting a second bowl (or maybe a third!) because it’s that delicious.

Second: Making it at home saves you money. You’ll get all the flavors you love for a fraction of the cost, without the need for a trip to a restaurant. Plus, this recipe is quick—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to spare.

Third: It’s customizable! Whether you prefer extra chicken or want to add more vegetables, Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can easily be tailored to your tastes. Want to make it a little lighter? No problem. The base of the soup is super versatile.

If you’re a fan of creamy soups like our popular Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll definitely want to give this recipe a try! There’s something magical about homemade soups, and this one is no exception.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Quick Overview

Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is as easy as 1-2-3! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a pot of this creamy, flavorful soup ready in no time. The best part? It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and oh-so-delicious. Get ready for a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hearty meal.

Key Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: shredded Parmesan cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool slightly. Shred it using two forks and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Broth and Cream: Gently pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together until perfectly combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Add the Gnocchi: Gently add the gnocchi to the soup. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi rises to the surface. This is a sign that it’s cooked!
Add the Chicken and Spinach: Once the gnocchi is cooked, add the shredded chicken and spinach to the soup. Stir well, allowing the spinach to wilt. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with some warm, crusty bread for dipping!

What to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup With

While Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your meal. Here are a few options to consider:

Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love a crispy, buttery piece of garlic bread alongside a creamy soup?
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing is the perfect side dish to balance out the richness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: For a light, nutritious option, try serving the soup with some roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

Top Tips for Perfecting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Once it rises to the surface, it’s ready to go!
Substitute for Light Options: Want to make the soup a bit lighter? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a low-sodium chicken broth.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra veggies like carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition.
Store Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you’ve made a big batch of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup and have some leftovers, don’t worry! It’s easy to store and reheat.

Refrigerate: Place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a bit more chicken broth or cream when reheating.
Freeze: If you want to freeze the soup for later, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Reheat: To reheat the soup, place it in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally. Add extra liquid if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is a simple, cost-effective way to enjoy the delicious flavors of this restaurant classic in the comfort of your own kitchen. With a creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi, this soup is guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients and give it a try-you won’t regret it!

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How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Home

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