Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden Recipe Delight

Recipe By:
James Walker
Updated:

There’s something almost magical about a bowl of chicken gnocchi soup from Olive Garden. Imagine the thick, creamy broth swirling with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant green spinach, all working together to create a symphony of flavors. As you take that first spoonful, the aroma envelops you like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Every time I savor this delightful soup, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone clamored for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and soul—perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This chicken gnocchi soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The rich flavors create a comforting experience that delights every palate
  • Visually appealing with its creamy texture and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry

I can still hear my friends raving about this soup at our last dinner party—everyone went back for more, and one guest even requested the recipe to impress their own family!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust according to how many people you’re feeding.

  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; nothing beats the aroma of sautéed garlic.

  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; they should be diced into small pieces for even cooking.

  • Celery: Crisp celery provides a nice crunch; chop it finely so it blends well with other ingredients.

  • Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the soup; feel free to toss in more if you’re feeling leafy.

  • Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly here; it cooks quickly and adds that lovely pillowy texture.

  • Heavy Cream: For creaminess that makes your taste buds dance; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it forms the base of our flavorful soup.

  • Dried Thyme and Oregano: These herbs elevate the flavor profile; fresh herbs would work too if you have them on hand.

  • Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your delightful bowl of joy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to shimmer. Place chicken breasts into the pot and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes each side should do it.

Add Aromatics and Vegetables: Once chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside, remove it from the pot. Add garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until fragrant—about 3 minutes will unlock those delicious flavors.

Create the Broth Base: Pour in chicken broth while scraping any sticky bits off the bottom of the pot. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for an aromatic kick—let everything simmer together for 10 minutes.

Add Gnocchi and Spinach : Toss in gnocchi and baby spinach next. Stir gently as they cook through—this should take around 3-4 minutes until gnocchi floats to the top like tiny pasta pillows.

Stir in Cream : Reduce heat to low while adding heavy cream slowly—this creates that luscious texture we all love. Allow it to heat through without boiling for another 5 minutes.

Serve Hot!: Ladle generously into bowls—you’ll want everyone at your table diving into their own comforting servings! Top with freshly cracked pepper or extra thyme if desired.

And just like that, your kitchen is now filled with warmth from not just the soup but also laughter echoing around as family and friends enjoy every spoonful!

Now grab your favorite crusty bread or crackers because this chicken gnocchi soup is ready to shine on your dinner table!

You Must Know

  • Chicken gnocchi soup from Olive Garden is a creamy delight that warms the soul
  • The rich flavors and velvety texture create a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather
  • It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your vegetables in butter until soft. Cook the chicken next for juicy flavor. Simmer everything together, adding gnocchi last to keep them tender and fluffy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition. A sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs can elevate flavors, making it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its creamy texture, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use freshly cooked chicken for maximum flavor; leftovers can dry out
  • Consider using homemade gnocchi for an authentic touch
  • Adjust seasoning at the end for a perfectly balanced taste every time!

Cooking this lovely soup reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would eagerly gather around the table, spoons ready. It’s one of those dishes that really brings people together.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead but add gnocchi just before serving for best texture.

What type of chicken should I use?

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness and flavor throughout the soup.

Is it possible to freeze chicken gnocchi soup?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream may separate upon thawing, affecting texture.

Print
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Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that brings warmth to chilly nights and cozy gatherings. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach simmered in a rich broth, this delightful soup is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and customizable based on your pantry staples. Grab your spoon and enjoy a bowl of nostalgia with every bite!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 16 oz store-bought gnocchi
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chicken breasts until golden brown (about 5 minutes each side). Remove from pot.
  2. Add garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add gnocchi and spinach; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until gnocchi floats.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream; heat through for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot in bowls topped with fresh cracked pepper or extra thyme.
  • Author: James
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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