Creamy Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup garnished with fresh parsley in a white bowl.

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a beloved classic that brings the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine right into your home kitchen. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, all melded together in a luscious, creamy base. Perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or when you’re craving a bowl of soulful goodness, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to recreate the iconic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup from scratch. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of creating the perfect creamy broth, every step is meticulously detailed to ensure your soup turns out flawless every time. Additionally, you’ll find tips for customization, creative variations to keep things exciting, and answers to common questions to make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to serve up a bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that delights both your palate and your loved ones.

Close-up of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup featuring tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Here’s why this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe will become your go-to comfort food:

  1. Authentic Flavor: Captures the essence of Olive Garden’s signature soup with its creamy broth and perfectly seasoned ingredients.
  2. Hearty and Satisfying: Combines protein-rich chicken, wholesome vegetables, and tender gnocchi for a filling meal.
  3. Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
  4. Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or additional proteins to suit your taste preferences.
  5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or entertaining guests with a comforting bowl of soup.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe offers a delicious and satisfying option that’s sure to impress and comfort everyone around the table.

Essential Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Homemade Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup served in a rustic bowl for a comforting meal.

Creating the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup starts with selecting high-quality ingredients that bring out the dish’s vibrant flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient Table

Ingredient Quantity/Notes Purpose/Flavor Notes
Chicken Breast 1 lb, boneless and skinless, diced The main protein source, adds tenderness and flavor
Gnocchi 1 lb (store-bought or homemade) Provides a chewy, hearty base for the soup
Butter 2 tablespoons, unsalted Adds richness and depth to the soup
Onion 1 large, diced Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor
Garlic 3 cloves, minced Enhances aromatic depth
Carrots 2 medium, sliced Adds sweetness and color
Celery 2 stalks, sliced Provides a savory base and crunch
Baby Spinach 2 cups, fresh Adds freshness and nutritional value
Chicken Broth 6 cups, low-sodium The base for the soup, adds savory depth
Heavy Cream 1 cup Creates a creamy and luscious broth
Italian Seasoning 2 teaspoons Adds herby flavor
Salt and Pepper To taste Essential for seasoning
Parmesan Cheese 1/2 cup, grated Adds umami and richness
Olive Oil 1 tablespoon For sautéing the vegetables
Optional Add-Ins Mushrooms, zucchini, or peas For additional texture and flavor variations

Pro Tip: For homemade gnocchi, prepare them fresh or freeze store-bought gnocchi to prevent clumping during cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Delicious Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup served with a side of warm breadsticks.

Follow these detailed instructions to create Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Dice the Chicken Breast:
    • Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. Ensure uniform sizing for even cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken:
    • Lightly season the diced chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor before cooking.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. This prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken tender.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of Italian seasoning and garlic before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Melt Butter and Heat Olive Oil:
    • In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add Onions and Garlic:
    • Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Carrots and Celery:
    • Incorporate the sliced carrots and celery into the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure the vegetables sauté properly without steaming.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Seasonings

  1. Add Chicken Broth:
    • Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Season the Soup:
    • Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
  3. Bring to a Simmer:
    • Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tip: Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the simmering process for a clearer broth.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi and Chicken

  1. Incorporate Gnocchi:
    • Add 1 lb of gnocchi to the simmering soup. Stir gently to prevent the gnocchi from sticking together.
  2. Return Chicken to the Pot:
    • Add the cooked chicken back into the soup, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
  3. Simmer Until Gnocchi is Cooked:
    • Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, so keep an eye to prevent overcooking.

Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure the gnocchi cook evenly and do not stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

  1. Add Baby Spinach:
    • Stir in 2 cups of fresh baby spinach, allowing it to wilt and integrate into the soup for added color and nutrition.
  2. Incorporate Heavy Cream:
    • Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine and create a rich, creamy broth.
  3. Heat Through:
    • Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the flavors are well combined.

Pro Tip: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

  1. Add Parmesan Cheese:
    • Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup, adding a savory depth and umami flavor.
  2. Adjust Seasonings:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
  3. Serve Hot:
    • Ladle the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Pro Tip: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Homemade Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup showcasing a rich, creamy broth with fresh herbs.

Achieving the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup involves a few key techniques and tips:

  1. Uniform Chicken Pieces:
    • Cut the chicken into consistent, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness in every bite.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:
    • Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent steaming and ensure a nice sear on the chicken pieces.
  3. Use Fresh Ingredients:
    • Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of the soup.
  4. Monitor Gnocchi Cooking Time:
    • Keep a close eye on the gnocchi as they cook. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy, while undercooked gnocchi remain hard.
  5. Customize Your Vegetables:
    • Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences. Mushrooms, zucchini, or kale can add extra depth and nutrition.
  6. Enhance with Herbs:
    • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added during the simmering process for an added layer of flavor.
  7. Adjust the Creaminess:
    • Modify the amount of heavy cream based on your desired level of creaminess. For a lighter soup, reduce the cream or use a substitute.

Pro Tip: For a gluten-free version, ensure that the gnocchi you use are gluten-free or make homemade potato gnocchi using gluten-free flour.

Creative Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

While the classic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is delicious on its own, experimenting with different flavors and ingredients can add excitement to your meal. Here are some delightful variations to try:

1. Spicy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Add Heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño into the sautéed vegetables for a spicy kick.
  • Pepperjack Cheese: Use pepperjack instead of Parmesan for an extra layer of heat and flavor.

2. Mediterranean Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Add Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in sliced Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or oregano to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

3. Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Pesto Infusion: Add 2 tablespoons of basil pesto to the creamy broth for a vibrant, herby flavor.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Incorporate halved cherry tomatoes for added sweetness and color.

4. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Extra Garlic: Increase the amount of garlic to intensify the aromatic flavor.
  • Parmesan Crust: Top the soup with a layer of grated Parmesan cheese and broil until golden for a crispy finish.

5. Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Plant-Based Protein: Replace chicken with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
  • Dairy-Free Cream: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute to maintain the creamy texture.
  • Nutritional Yeast: Add nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy, umami flavor.

Pro Tip: Combine multiple variations, such as adding both sun-dried tomatoes and pesto, to create your own unique version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup tailored to your taste preferences.

Rustic Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup with a creamy base and hearty gnocchi pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Can I Use Dried Gnocchi Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use dried gnocchi in this recipe. However, dried gnocchi may require a slightly longer cooking time. Follow the package instructions and adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure they are tender.

2. What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that substitutes may alter the creaminess and flavor slightly.

3. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the desired consistency.

4. What Can I Substitute for Chicken Breast?

If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Alternatively, use turkey or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

5. Can I Freeze This Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth if the consistency becomes too thick.

6. How Do I Prevent Gnocchi from Becoming Soggy?

To prevent gnocchi from becoming soggy, ensure they are thoroughly drained and patted dry before adding them to the soup. Avoid adding too much liquid to the soup, and cook the gnocchi separately if you prefer to keep them distinct before combining.

Pro Tip: Adding the gnocchi towards the end of the cooking process helps maintain their texture and prevents them from absorbing too much broth.

Nutritional Snapshot

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup helps you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a general overview based on a standard recipe serving size (approximately 1 cup):

  • Calories: ~450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 50-55 grams
  • Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Fiber: 5-7 grams
  • Sugar: 6-8 grams
  • Sodium: ~800-1000 mg
  • Vitamins and Minerals: High in Vitamin A (from carrots and vegetables), Vitamin C, calcium (from Parmesan cheese), and iron.

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a lighter version, consider using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of butter, or using low-sodium broth.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Easy-to-make Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup served with garlic bread on the side

Presentation can elevate your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup from a simple meal to a visually stunning dish. Here are some ideas to serve and showcase your soup beautifully:

  1. Elegant Bowls:
    • Serve the soup in large, colorful ceramic bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an inviting look.
  2. Individual Ramekins:
    • Present the soup in individual ramekins for a sophisticated and personal touch, perfect for dinner parties or intimate gatherings.
  3. Decorative Platters:
    • Arrange the soup in a decorative tureen with additional garnishes like chopped green onions or a drizzle of olive oil around the edges.
  4. Layered Presentation:
    • Create a layered effect by adding a dollop of pesto or a swirl of cream on top of each bowl before garnishing.
  5. Add a Side of Bread:
    • Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to complement the creamy soup and make the meal more complete.
  6. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
    • Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil over the top for added color and a burst of fresh flavor.
  7. Include a Side Salad:
    • Pair the soup with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal.

Pro Tip: Use a variety of garnishes and colorful vegetables to make the dish more visually appealing and enticing to eat.

Conclusion: Savor the Creamy Goodness of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors that warm both body and soul. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes and dietary needs. By following this comprehensive guide and implementing the expert tips provided, you can create a meal that delights your taste buds and impresses your guests every time.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a comforting bowl of soup, this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe provides a reliable and delicious option that never disappoints. Embrace the simplicity and richness of this classic dish, and enjoy the delightful combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and chewy gnocchi in every spoonful.

Gather your ingredients, set your stovetop, and indulge in the creamy goodness of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup today. Your loved ones will thank you for the delicious and satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to the table.

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