Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

This Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a deliciously creamy dish that will warm your soul. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of tender chicken, flavorful gnocchi, and fresh spinach. With its rich broth and comforting texture, this soup stands out as a favorite among comfort foods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delightful soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh herbs, garlic, and spices elevate the taste, ensuring each bowl is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
• Comfort Food Classic: This creamy soup brings warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for chilly days or when you’re in need of some comfort.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly and providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when blending flour into the broth without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Soup

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 quart half-and-half
• 28 ounces chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

For the Final Touches

• 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
• 1 cup spinach leaves (coarsely chopped)
• 1 cup chicken breast (cooked and diced)
• 16 ounces package ready-to-use gnocchi

How to Make Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter together with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. This mixture creates a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add 1 cup finely diced onion, 1/2 cup finely diced celery, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook while stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and softened, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 1 quart of half-and-half. Allow this mixture to simmer gently until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Mix in Broth and Seasonings

Pour in 28 ounces of chicken broth and stir to combine. Simmer again until the soup thickens further, about 5–7 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, optional ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Chicken

Stir in 1 cup of finely shredded carrots, coarsely chopped spinach leaves, cooked chicken breast pieces, and ready-to-use gnocchi. Simmer gently until the gnocchi float and everything is heated through, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy your creamy homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving your Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Classic garlic breadsticks complement the creamy soup beautifully.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Cracked Black Pepper – A touch of freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens – A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more flour gradually.
• Shred Your Own Cheese – If using cheese, shred it yourself for better melting and flavor.
• Store Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness; reheat gently on low heat.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – A refreshing combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until golden; they add texture and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad – Light and healthy quinoa mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon dressing.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa for a hearty side that complements the soup well.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with cheese pair perfectly with the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using cold broth: Always use warm chicken broth to help maintain the temperature and consistency of the soup as it simmers.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly; add it towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt or herbs as needed for the best flavor.
• Neglecting ingredient prep: Ensure all vegetables are finely diced or shredded as specified. This helps them cook evenly and blend well into the soup.
• Skipping simmer time: Allow the soup to simmer long enough for flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step, as it enhances taste significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe that might help you while cooking.

How can I make my Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and check that your gnocchi is gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, ready-to-use gnocchi from the store is a great time-saving option and works well in this soup.

What type of chicken should I use?

Cooked chicken breast works best, but shredded rotisserie chicken is also a quick and delicious alternative.

How do I store leftover Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its creamy texture combined with tender chicken and fresh vegetables makes it versatile for any meal occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste!