Want a trust copycat recipe that everyone will love? This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy, flavorful, and completely addicting. Perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends and family, this soup brings the delightful taste of the restaurant right into your kitchen. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with delicious ingredients that make every spoonful a joy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a creamy broth creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup works well as a main course or as a starter for any meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a favorite among both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
- Comfort Food: The creamy texture and warm ingredients make it the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot: Ideal for cooking soups as it provides ample space for all ingredients to simmer evenly.
- Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when adding flour to avoid lumps in your broth.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
– 1 Tbs olive oil
– 4 Tbs butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 small onion (chopped)
– 2 garlic cloves (minced)
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup carrots (shredded)
– 2 tsp parsley flakes
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– 1 package (16 ounces) mini potato gnocchi
– 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oils
In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat until fully melted.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add your chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Thicken the Broth
Whisk in your flour, letting it cook for about a minute. Slowly stir in your chicken broth, simmering until it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Gnocchi
Meanwhile, cook your gnocchi according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add milk to your vegetable and chicken broth mixture. Bring to a boil while stirring in your seasonings like parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once at a boil, reduce heat. Add your cooked gnocchi, chopped spinach, and shredded chicken. Simmer until heated through and thickened for about five more minutes. Enjoy!
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Serving Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the soup with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture and is perfect for soaking up every last drop.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds freshness and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.
Accompanied by a Salad
- A light salad, such as Caesar or mixed greens, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. It balances the meal and adds crunch.
In Individual Bowls
- Serve in individual bowls for an elegant touch. This presentation makes each guest feel special and allows for easy portion control.
With Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on their soup. This adds extra flavor and richness to each bowl.
How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Perfecting your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out just right.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance flavor. Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Be careful not to overcook gnocchi as they can become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and taste-test them during cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings based on your preference to achieve the perfect balance.
Cook Slowly: Allow your soup to simmer gently after boiling. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully without losing texture.
Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Complementing your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with this comforting soup.
Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with soup, garlic bread is easy to prepare and adds great flavor.
Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce combined with Caesar dressing provides a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
Caprese Salad: A refreshing Caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings brightness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your dinner plate visually appealing.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer or side item.
Cheesy Biscuit Bites: Fluffy biscuit bites filled with cheese provide comfort alongside the hearty soup. They’re great for dipping!
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a tasty starter that balances well with soup flavors.
Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly allows the rich flavors of the soup to shine through while adding freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: If gnocchi is cooked too long, it can become mushy. Follow package directions closely and add it to the soup just before serving.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Using Low-Quality Chicken Broth: A poor broth can diminish the soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can make a difference in taste. Whenever possible, use fresh spinach and parsley for added brightness.
- Not Letting It Simmer: Rushing through the cooking process may prevent flavors from developing. Allow the soup to simmer so all ingredients meld together beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it refrigerated and reheat before serving.
Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that can help enhance your cooking experience.
What makes Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup special?
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is loved for its creamy texture, hearty chicken, and flavorful gnocchi. It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Can I customize my Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes! You can add vegetables like peas or mushrooms or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
How long does Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup last?
When stored properly in the fridge, this soup lasts about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with vegetable broth and use tofu or additional vegetables instead of chicken gnocchi soup.
Final Thoughts
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors make it a family favorite while offering plenty of opportunities for customization. Try adding extra veggies or spices to make it your own!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a beloved classic that brings the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine right to your home. This creamy, hearty soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich broth, making it an irresistible choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its quick preparation and satisfying flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, each spoonful promises to be a delightful experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup carrots (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) mini potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped)
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, shredded carrots, and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Whisk in flour, cooking for about one minute before slowly adding chicken broth. Simmer until thickened.
- Cook gnocchi according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Stir in milk along with parsley flakes, salt, and pepper; bring mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, then add cooked gnocchi, spinach, and shredded chicken. Simmer for an additional five minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
