Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is just what you need. Filled with tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch. It’s rich in flavor yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of creamy, hearty flavors that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. The combination of soft potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach creates a well-balanced soup that’s both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—requiring just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes of your time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup so delicious:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (3-4, cooked and diced): The main protein in the soup, chicken breasts are tender and juicy when cooked properly. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Celery (1 stalk, chopped): Adds a subtle crunch and earthy flavor that balances the creaminess of the soup.
• White Onion (½, diced): Provides a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Minced Garlic (2 teaspoons): Infuses the soup with a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Shredded Carrots (½ cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, making it more visually appealing and nutritious.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté the vegetables, adding a subtle richness to the soup.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups): Forms the base of the soup, providing a savory, flavorful liquid. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the soup and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Thyme (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor to the soup.
• Potato Gnocchi (16 ounces): Soft, pillowy gnocchi add heartiness to the soup, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
• Half and Half (2 cups): Adds creaminess to the soup without making it too heavy. You can also use heavy cream for a richer texture or milk for a lighter option.
• Fresh Spinach (1 cup, roughly chopped): Adds a pop of color and freshness, while also boosting the nutritional value of the soup.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped celery, diced onions, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables begin to soften. This step helps build a flavorful base for the soup.

2. Add the Chicken and Broth:
Stir in the cooked and diced chicken, ensuring it is well distributed among the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, then season the soup with salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, which will help the flavors meld together.

3. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once the soup reaches a boil, gently stir in the potato gnocchi. Continue boiling for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top and are cooked through. This indicates that the gnocchi are tender and ready to eat.

4. Simmer and Add the Half and Half:
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the soup for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. Stir in the half and half and chopped spinach, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.

5. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. The soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the soup during the simmering stage. Alternatively, using heavy cream instead of half and half will create a richer, creamier texture.
• Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can be added at the end of cooking to enhance the flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the soup, adding a subtle tang.
• Gnocchi Cooking Tip: Make sure to stir the soup gently after adding the gnocchi to prevent them from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot. This will ensure even cooking and tender gnocchi.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Garnishes: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Side Dishes: Pair the soup with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
• Presentation Tips: Serve the soup in warm bowls to keep it hot longer. Garnish with a swirl of cream or a few whole spinach leaves for an elegant touch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for evenly cooking the soup and preventing the ingredients from sticking.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring the vegetables and soup as it cooks.
• Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping the vegetables and dicing the chicken.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for leftovers and stores well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the soup even more delicious the next day.
• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, note that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the half and half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The soup will still be creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the soup hearty and filling.
• Whole-Wheat Gnocchi: For a healthier twist, use whole-wheat gnocchi instead of regular potato gnocchi. This will add more fiber and nutrients to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Both refrigerated and shelf-stable gnocchi are suitable, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I make this soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water during the simmering stage. Stir until the soup reaches your desired consistency.

Can I substitute milk for half and half?
Yes, you can use milk instead of half and half for a lighter soup. However, the soup will be less creamy, so you may want to add a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.

Conclusion

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or as a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to please with its rich flavors and tender gnocchi. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more comforting and delicious dishes!

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