Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced); 1 stalk celery (chopped); 0.5 cup white onion (diced); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 0.5 cup shredded carrots; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups low sodium chicken broth; salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon thyme; 16 ounces potato gnocchi; 2 cups half and half (see note); 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

Introduction to Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re a fan of the creamy, comforting goodness of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re definitely not alone. This delightful bowl of warmth has garnered a loyal following for good reason! It combines tender chicken, hearty gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a luscious, velvety broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Why is copycat soup so satisfying?

One of the best parts about copycat recipes is that they allow you to recreate your favorite restaurant dishes right in your own kitchen. Imagine savoring the rich flavors of Olive Garden in your living room, all while saving time and money! Making your own version means you can tailor the ingredients to your taste—whether that’s adding extra spinach for a nutritional boost or adjusting the seasonings to suit your palate.

Plus, there’s something immensely satisfying about taking control of the cooking process. It transforms an everyday meal into a culinary adventure with just a few key ingredients, especially when you can whip it up in under 30 minutes. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into creating this comforting Olive Garden favorite. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating your own version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is easier than you think! Let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to whip up this creamy, comforting dish that's perfect for any night of the week.

Fresh and Flavorful Components

Chicken: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced. This is the heart of your soup, providing protein and a satisfying texture.
Veggies: Include 1 stalk of chopped celery, ½ diced white onion, and ½ cup shredded carrots. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also add nutrients and a beautiful color to your bowl.
Aromatics: Don’t forget 2 teaspoons of minced garlic to add that depth of flavor we all love.

Delicious Base Ingredients

Broth: Use 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth for the right balance of saltiness and savory goodness.
Seasoning: A pinch of salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme will elevate the flavor profile.
Gnocchi: The star of the show! Grab 16 ounces of potato gnocchi; this will bring a delightful texture to your soup.
Creaminess: Add 2 cups of half-and-half, which makes your soup luxuriously creamy, and finish it off with 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh spinach for a pop of color and freshness.

In just 30 minutes, you'll have a satisfying bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that will warm your heart and impress your friends. If you're interested in more tips, check out this guide on cooking with chicken for some delicious ideas!

Preparing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making your very own Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is a delightful experience, and it's easier than you might think! In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, comforting bowl that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Let’s walk through the simple steps together!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
1 stalk of celery, chopped
½ white onion, diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ cup shredded carrots
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme
16 ounces potato gnocchi
2 cups half and half
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Have everything ready? Great! Let’s get cooking.

Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the vegetables to soften a bit. This will create a flavorful base that enhances your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Add Chicken and Broth

After your vegetables are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Bring this delicious mixture to a boil, and once you see those bubbles, gently fold in the gnocchi. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and fluffy.

Incorporate the Gnocchi

Gnocchi is the star of this dish, and they’ll soak up all those delicious flavors. During the few minutes they cook in the broth, they’ll become a key part of the delightful texture in your soup. Just keep an eye on them, and don’t wander too far – you don’t want them to overcook!

Stir in the Cream and Spinach

Finally, reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the half and half and roughly chopped spinach. This adds a wonderful creaminess and a pop of color to your soup. Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Congratulations! You’ve just made a homemade version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy a taste of Italy right at your dining table. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Variations on Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Looking to switch things up with your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Here are a couple of delightful variations to elevate this classic dish.

Creamy Mushroom Gnocchi Soup

For a rich, earthy twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms. Simply cook about 2 cups of sliced mushrooms alongside your veggies. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a new texture to the soup. Swapping half of the chicken for mushrooms can also make it vegetarian-friendly!

Spinach and Cheese Blend

Enhance the nutritional value by introducing a blend of fresh spinach and your favorite cheese! Stir in a half-cup of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano just before serving. This tangy addition complements the creamy base beautifully, making your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup even more indulgent.

Experimenting with these variations can make dinner exciting while keeping that comforting feel we love!

Cooking Notes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When preparing your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, keep a few tips in mind to enhance your cooking experience. First, pre-cook your chicken breasts for quicker assembly. This can even be done ahead of time! Using rotisserie chicken can save you valuable minutes.

Consider the texture of your gnocchi; less boiling gives them a delightful chew. If you're aiming for extra creaminess, try substituting half of the half and half with heavy cream.

Finally, don’t forget to taste your soup! Adjust seasoning as you go to ensure it’s just right. Enjoy your culinary adventure and savor each spoonful!

For more tips, check out The Kitchn for insights on cooking tips and techniques.

Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When it comes to enjoying your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you have plenty of delightful options to elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that can complement this comforting dish beautifully:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan rolls make for perfect dunkers. They soak up the creamy broth wonderfully, enhancing every bite.
Salad Pairing: A fresh side salad, like a classic Caesar or a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Garnish with Herbs: Consider garnishing your soup with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to add an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy with a Drink: For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water with a splash of lemon or an herbal iced tea for a refreshing accompaniment.

These suggestions will make your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup not just a meal but a delightful dining experience!

Tips for making perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating an effortlessly delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup requires a few simple yet effective tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, especially spinach and carrots, can really elevate the flavor. Choose vibrant produce for the best result.
Cook Gnocchi Separately: For perfectly tender gnocchi, consider cooking them in a separate pot before adding them to the soup. This prevents them from becoming overly soft.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer your soup thicker, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more half and half. For a lighter version, use chicken broth instead.
Finishing Touch: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, just before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

These tips will help ensure your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup becomes a family favorite!

Time details for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Preparation time

Getting started on your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze! You’ll only need about 10 minutes to gather ingredients, chop vegetables, and prepare any cooked chicken.

Cooking time

Once you're prepped and ready, the actual cooking takes about 20 minutes. You'll enjoy every moment as your kitchen fills with the delicious aroma of this comforting soup!

Total time

In just 30 minutes, you can have a warm, hearty bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to impress your friends or family. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.

Ready to dive into making this creamy delight? Don't forget to check out more tips on cooking with gnocchi for added inspiration!

Nutritional Information for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When you're whipping up this cozy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home, it's helpful to know what’s in each bowl. Here's a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 523 calories, making it a satisfying option for dinner without going overboard.

Protein

Packed with 31 grams of protein, this soup is a great choice to keep you feeling full and fueled throughout the day.

Sodium

It’s essential to be mindful of your sodium intake, and this recipe contains around 622 milligrams per serving, which is reasonable for a creamy soup.

For more cooking tips and healthier ingredient swaps, check out resources from Healthline or EatingWell. Enjoy your cooking adventures!

FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi is a convenient option that works wonderfully in your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking; they’ll cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully. Plus, using frozen gnocchi saves you time, so you can enjoy your soup even faster!

How can I add more veggies?

If you’re looking to up your veggie game in this soup, consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Broccoli florets also make an excellent addition—just make sure to add them early enough for them to soften. Feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies; this soup is versatile!

What are some good sides to serve with the soup?

Pair your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside a light antipasto platter featuring olives and cheeses. These sides complement the soup's creaminess while adding a delightful texture contrast. Enjoy your meal!

Conclusion on Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

In conclusion, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that you can whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy texture and hearty flavors will surely impress your friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!