If you love cozy, creamy soups, then Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup is probably one of your favorites. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, herby broth that warms you from the inside out. The good news? You don’t have to wait in line at a restaurant to enjoy it. You can make this delicious soup right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Let’s dive into how to make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that tastes just like the original!
What Makes Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup So Special?
Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup is beloved for its creamy texture, savory flavor, and the unique addition of gnocchi—soft Italian potato dumplings that add a delightful chewiness. The soup is made fresh daily at the restaurant, with roasted chicken, fresh vegetables, and a blend of Italian herbs that give it that signature taste. When you make it at home, you can control the ingredients, customize the flavors, and enjoy it anytime without the wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients to gather before you start cooking:
– Butter: For sautéing vegetables and building flavor.
– Vegetables: Onion, celery, carrots, and garlic form the aromatic base.
– Flour: Helps thicken the soup for that creamy consistency.
– Chicken broth: Low sodium preferred, or homemade if you have it.
– Heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds richness and smoothness.
– Chicken: Roasted or cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced.
– Potato gnocchi: Store-bought refrigerated gnocchi works best for soups.
– Fresh spinach: Adds color and nutrition.
– Seasonings: Italian seasoning, dried thyme, rubbed sage, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the flour turns a light golden color. This step is crucial as it thickens the soup and gives it that creamy texture.
3. Add Broth and Cream
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half gradually, stirring continuously to create a smooth base. Toss in your dried herbs like Italian seasoning, thyme, and mustard powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Chicken
If you’re using raw chicken breasts, add them now and let the soup simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred or dice it, and return it to the pot. If you’re using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, add it with the gnocchi in the next step.
5. Add Gnocchi and Spinach
Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float and become tender but still slightly chewy. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, which takes about a minute.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup
– Use store-bought gnocchi for convenience and the right texture. Refrigerated gnocchi is ideal for soups because it holds up well without falling apart.
– Don’t overcook the gnocchi. It cooks quickly and should be tender with a slight bite, not mushy.
– Layer your seasoning as you cook. Adding salt and pepper at each step enhances the overall flavor.
– Customize your veggies. While the classic trio is onion, celery, and carrot, feel free to add mushrooms, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.
– Control the creaminess by adjusting the amount of heavy cream or substituting with half-and-half for a lighter soup.
– Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Why Make This Soup at Home?
Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal with ingredients you trust. It’s a quick recipe that comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting bowl of soup. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.
This soup captures the essence of Olive Garden’s classic dish with a homemade touch, making it a family favorite and a sure way to impress guests with your cooking skills.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and hearty Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup anytime you want a taste of Italy right at home!
Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you think, and the result is a warm, comforting bowl of creamy goodness that’s perfect for any day. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality soup without leaving your kitchen!