If you have ever craved a warm, comforting bowl of creamy, savory soup that feels like a big cozy hug, then this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Bursting with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and rich broth, every spoonful offers layers of delicious flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. Recreating this restaurant favorite at home is easier than you might think, and the result is a soul-satisfying dish that pleases the whole family and warms up any chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking, it’s wonderful to note how straightforward and approachable the ingredients for this soup are. Each item plays a special role in building the authentic, comforting flavor and that dreamy creamy texture that we love so much.
- Salted butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps sauté the vegetables evenly without sticking.
- Avocado oil: Provides a neutral, healthy fat that complements the butter and helps soften the veggies.
- Small sweet onion (diced): Brings mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of the soup.
- Celery ribs (diced): Adds a subtle crunch and an aromatic undertone with every bite.
- Medium carrots (peeled and diced): Give natural sweetness and color contrast.
- Garlic cloves (finely minced): Infuses savory warmth and invites you in with its fragrant scent.
- Chicken broth: The heart of the soup that delivers rich, savory depth.
- Dried thyme: Adds a delicate earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Dried oregano: Offers a subtle herbal lift that rounds out the soup.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper: Provides just the right amount of subtle heat and balance.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- Half and half: Supplies the creamy texture that makes this soup so indulgent.
- Potato gnocchi: Light, fluffy, and comforting little bites that soak up the delicious broth.
- Spinach (chopped): Adds fresh color, nutrients, and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped, optional): A sprinkle at the end that brightens and freshens your final creation.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Start by heating salted butter and avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. This combo creates a perfect cooking base that softens your onions, celery, and carrots without browning them too quickly. Cook these diced veggies gently for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender and releasing their sweetness. Then, toss in the finely minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds more, until it becomes fragrant and aromatic.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so the spices can bloom in the warm liquid, creating a flavorful foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs into the simmering broth, making sure each piece is fully submerged. Bring the heat up to high to reach a boil, then lower to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through. This slow cooking ensures the meat remains juicy and easy to shred.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Carefully transfer the cooked chicken onto a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. This shredded chicken will melt into the soup and deliver tender, meaty bites in every spoonful.
Step 5: Add Half and Half, Spinach, and Gnocchi
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and pour in the half and half, stirring gently. Bring the mixture back up to a boil, then add the potato gnocchi and chopped spinach. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the gnocchi float to the top and the spinach wilts beautifully. This step transforms the soup into that signature creamy casserole of flavor and texture.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once everything is perfectly cooked, sprinkle some fresh flat-leaf parsley on top if you like. It adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that balances the rich creaminess.
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of this soup can be amplified with just a few thoughtful garnishes. Try scattering freshly chopped parsley or even a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and elegance. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil on top can also add a luxurious finish that makes your bowl even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair your bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots for dunking. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette creates a lovely contrast and rounds out the meal perfectly. These simple sides complement the richness of the soup without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this soup in charming bowls or rustic mugs invites a cozy atmosphere. For special occasions, garnish with edible flowers or a swirl of pesto for a colorful upgrade. You could also assemble an interactive soup bar with toppings like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes for guests to customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy, comforting texture. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before storing to preserve flavor and freshness.
Freezing
Because this soup includes dairy and gnocchi, freezing can be a bit tricky but still doable. Freeze the soup without the gnocchi first in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then cook fresh gnocchi separately and add just before serving to keep its tender pillow-like texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. If it looks too thick, stir in a little extra chicken broth or half and half to loosen it up. Avoid boiling as this may cause the cream to curdle. Add gnocchi fresh when reheating leftovers or prepare separately as suggested.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook it as breast meat can dry out. Adjust the simmering time and check for doneness early to keep it tender.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the half and half for coconut milk or your favorite unsweetened dairy-free cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute chicken thighs with hearty mushrooms or a plant-based chicken alternative. The gnocchi and veggies will still shine beautifully.
What type of gnocchi is best for this recipe?
Potato gnocchi works best as it absorbs the soup’s flavors while tenderly floating on top when cooked. Avoid pre-cooked or frozen gnocchi that might get mushy with reheating.
How can I thicken the soup if it feels too thin?
If the soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, stir in a small slurry made with flour or cornstarch and cold water while simmering. Cook until it reaches your preferred consistency, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Final Thoughts
Making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe at home is truly a joy, and it brings a little piece of that beloved restaurant experience straight to your kitchen table. With its heartwarming flavors, easy steps, and satisfying comfort, you’ll find yourself returning to it time and again, especially when you need a simple yet special meal. So grab your ingredients, simmer up a pot, and enjoy every delightful spoonful!
Print
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs, soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs simmered together in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe brings restaurant-quality soup to your home kitchen in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 ½ cups half and half
Fats and Oils
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Pasta
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
Instructions
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat the butter and avocado oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Cook Soup: Add the chicken thighs to the pot, making sure each piece is fully immersed in the liquid. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into smaller pieces.
- Add Half and Half, Spinach, and Gnocchi: Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the half and half. Turn the heat back up to high and bring the soup to a boil again. Once boiling, stir in the potato gnocchi and chopped spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are done.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh flat-leaf parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting homemade chicken gnocchi soup.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs, but thighs provide more flavor and juiciness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or peas for extra nutrition.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop and add extra broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency.
