I have always had a soft spot for comfort food, and one dish that warms my heart is the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. This creamy, hearty soup is packed with flavors that remind me of cozy family dinners. Today, I’ll take you through my version of the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, so you can enjoy this delightful dish right in your own kitchen.
What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Gnocchi are small potato dumplings that are soft and pillowy. They are a staple in Italian cuisine and can be made from scratch or bought pre-made. The texture of gnocchi adds a unique element to soups, making each spoonful comforting and filling.
Why I Love Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
I remember the first time I tried this soup at Olive Garden. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi made it an instant favorite. It was a chilly evening, and this soup was like a warm hug in a bowl. I knew I had to recreate it at home to enjoy whenever the craving hit.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
To make this delicious soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what I use:
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Making this soup is quite simple and doesn’t take much time. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. The aroma of the sautéing veggies already sets the stage for a delicious soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning. This step infuses the soup with incredible flavors.
Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add Cream and Gnocchi
Once the broth is simmering, it’s time to add the heavy cream and gnocchi. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they are cooked and ready to eat.
Step 5: Stir in Spinach
Finally, add the fresh spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. This adds a lovely color and a nutritious boost to the soup.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if you like.
Tips for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Over the years, I have learned a few tricks to ensure my soup turns out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more cream.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making a big batch.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Place the cooled soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave out the spinach until you reheat it.
Reheating the Soup
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Serving Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread or a fresh salad. I love serving it with a side of garlic bread for dipping. It makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
While comfort food is all about indulgence, it’s good to be mindful of what we eat. Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
Making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home has been a rewarding experience. It’s a dish that brings back memories and warms my soul. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it to friends and family, it’s sure to be a hit.