Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup! This creamy, hearty soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, and it’s been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen filled with the most incredible aromas, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables is just perfection. Every spoonful feels like a cozy evening by the fire, even if I’m just curled up on the couch after a long day. It’s quick to whip up, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, and I just know you’re going to love it as much as I do!
Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is super important for this soup, and I promise, it’s worth every bit of effort! Here’s what you’ll need:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
1 cup gnocchi (you can find these in the pasta aisle)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for that lovely sautéing magic)
1 diced onion (it adds a wonderful base flavor)
2 diced carrots (they bring a nice sweetness)
2 diced celery stalks (for that classic soup taste)
3 cloves minced garlic (because garlic makes everything better!)
4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought works)
2 cups heavy cream (adjust this if you want it lighter)
1 teaspoon thyme (a little herb magic)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on this!)
Parmesan cheese for garnish (for that finishing touch!)
These ingredients come together to create a soup that’s not just hearty, but oh-so-delicious! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup*! It’s super straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through every step. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!
First things first, heat that olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, just right for sautéing!
Next, toss in the diced onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these beauties until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. Trust me, the aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Now, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. This is where the magic really starts to happen!
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. You’ll want to see some bubbling action!
Once boiling, add the gnocchi. Cook them until they float, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This is a good sign that they’re ready!
Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and thyme. Mix it well and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld beautifully!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a little taste test—adjust as needed!
Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that extra flair!
And there you have it! A creamy, comforting bowl of goodness that’s ready to warm your soul. Enjoy every last spoonful!
Making the perfect *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* is all about a few key tips that’ll take your dish from good to *amazing*! Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
Use rotisserie chicken: It’s a huge time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred it up and you’re good to go!
Adjust the cream: If you like a lighter soup, feel free to cut back on the heavy cream. You can even substitute part of it with milk for a slightly different texture.
Store leftovers properly: Keep any extra soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually toss some fresh Parmesan on top when I reheat it to keep that cheesy goodness intact!
Don’t overcook the gnocchi: They only need a few minutes—once they float, they’re done! Overcooking can make them mushy, and nobody wants that.
Taste as you go: Always give your soup a little taste test before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to make sure it’s just right!
With these tips, your soup will be a hit every time. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies, each bowl is a complete meal that satisfies your hunger.
Creamy Texture: The heavy cream gives this soup its luxurious, velvety mouthfeel that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every spoonful!
Delicious Flavor: With a combination of savory broth, fresh herbs, and the sweetness of vegetables, it’s a flavor explosion that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this soup! It’s a great way to bring everyone to the table and share a delicious meal together.
Once you try it, I bet it’ll become a favorite in your home too!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While this *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* is all about comfort and flavor, it’s also good to know what you’re putting in your body. Here are the typical nutritional values per serving (1 cup) based on the ingredients I use:
Calories: 400
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 20g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose. But hey, a little indulgence in a hearty soup like this is totally worth it, right? Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about making the perfect *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup*? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just fine. Just toss them in the pot straight from the freezer; they’ll cook up beautifully in the soup!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir when reheating, and it’ll taste almost as fresh as when you made it!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
<pDefinitely! Swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also load it up with more veggies for a hearty twist!
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that the texture will be a bit different, but still delicious!
Can I freeze this soup?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing it because the gnocchi can become mushy when thawed. But if you want to freeze it, just leave the gnocchi out and add them fresh when you reheat the soup!
Hope this helps clear up any concerns! Get ready to enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* ready to go, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside it to make this meal even more special! Trust me, a little something on the side can elevate your dining experience to the next level.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into that creamy goodness! I love a nice sourdough or a baguette—just slice it up and let everyone dunk away!
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad is a fantastic companion to this hearty soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the soup.
Garlic Bread: If you’re feeling indulgent, some cheesy garlic bread is a must! The flavor combination is just heavenly, and it’s great for soaking up every last drop of soup.
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve up some roasted seasonal veggies. They add color and a lovely contrast to the creamy soup.
Parmesan Crisps: For a fun twist, make some crispy Parmesan chips to sprinkle on top or serve on the side. They add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully.
Whichever sides you choose, your meal will be complete and utterly satisfying. Enjoy every moment of this cozy dining experience!
Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
If you’re like me, you love to play around with recipes and make them your own! This *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* is super versatile, and there are so many delicious ways to switch it up. Here are some fun variations to consider:
Add Different Vegetables: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies! Spinach or kale adds a nice pop of color and nutrition, while peas can bring a touch of sweetness. Just chop them up and add them in with the other veggies!
Herb Variations: Want to change the flavor profile? Swap out thyme for some fresh basil or rosemary for a fragrant twist. You could even try a bit of oregano for an Italian kick!
Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños when you’re sautéing the vegetables. It gives the soup a nice kick that’s sure to warm you up!
Lighter Version: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream and substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a hint of sweetness. You won’t lose any of that creamy goodness!
Protein Swaps: Don’t have chicken on hand? Try using shredded turkey or even cooked sausage for a completely different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar right before serving for an extra cheesy delight. Just stir until it melts into the soup—yum!
These variations keep things exciting and allow you to customize the soup to fit your mood or what you have in the fridge. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own—happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store that delicious *Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* if you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!). Proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and tasty for your next meal.
Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the soup watery. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up a bit.
Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just place it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir in between to help it heat evenly.
Texture Tips: Be careful not to overheat it, as the gnocchi can become mushy if cooked too long. If you notice the soup has thickened too much, adding a bit of liquid while reheating will help restore its creamy texture!
Following these tips will ensure your soup stays just as comforting and delicious as the first time you made it. Enjoy every bite!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!