Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3-4 pieces 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 and 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’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you know their Chicken Gnocchi Soup is nothing short of legendary. This creamy delight has won the hearts of many, especially young professionals who appreciate a comforting yet quick meal after a long day at work. But what makes this soup a standout? It perfectly balances flavors and textures, combining tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a silky broth.

Why is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup a favorite among young professionals?

For busy young professionals, time is often limited, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste. Here’s why this soup is a go-to:

Easy Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it's a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner. You can whip it up quickly and still enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Comforting Flavors: The rich, creamy base, combined with hearty ingredients, offers a sense of warmth and satisfaction that’s perfect after a stressful day.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with chicken, spinach, and even a serving of carrots, this soup is wholesome without sacrificing indulgence.

Trying your hand at a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy your favorite dish without needing a reservation. For more tips on elevating your homemade version, check out sources like EatingWell and The Kitchn. Enjoy cooking!

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Essential ingredients for a creamy soup

To create the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you'll need a few key ingredients that blend beautifully to create a comforting and creamy dish. Here’s your essential shopping list:

3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cooked and diced for hearty protein.
1 stalk of celery: Chopped to add a nice crunch and freshness.
½ white onion: Diced to build that aromatic base of flavor.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: For a punch of savory goodness.
½ cup shredded carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing your veggies.
4 cups low sodium chicken broth: The lifeblood of your soup—choosing low sodium helps control salt levels.
Salt and pepper to taste: To season just right.
1 teaspoon thyme: Brings an earthy dimension.
16 ounces potato gnocchi: The heart of this dish—chewy and delightful!
2 cups half and half: Ensures a rich and creamy texture.
1 cup fresh spinach: Roughly chopped for a nutrient boost.

Optional ingredients for personalization

Customize your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to suit your taste with these optional additions:

Various herbs: Try adding basil or parsley for fresh highlights.
Mushrooms: Sautéed before the broth can add an umami richness.
Turkey bacon: For extra smokiness, crisp it up and toss it in for a delightful contrast.
Chili flakes: A pinch can spice things up if you enjoy a bit of heat!
Vegetable alternatives: Experiment with zucchini, bell peppers, or any other favorites that tickle your fancy.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to truly make this soup your own. Happy cooking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making a cozy bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just following a recipe; it's about creating an experience. So, let's jump into this delightful journey with a few easy steps that will have your kitchen smelling fabulous in no time!

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it's crucial to gather all your ingredients. Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. You'll need:

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

Make sure to have your pots and measuring cups ready, and consider playing some music to make the experience more fun!

Sauté the vegetables

Now, let's start the cooking process! Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté these together for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent. This step not only softens the vegetables but also builds a rich flavor base, setting the perfect tone for the soup.

Combine chicken and broth

Once your veggies are softened and aromatic, it’s time to introduce the chicken and broth. Add your diced cooked chicken into the pot, followed by the 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth, a pinch of salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. It should begin to bubble beautifully within a few minutes.

Bring to a boil and add gnocchi

When your pot is bubbling, it's time for the star of the show—gnocchi! Add 16 ounces of potato gnocchi to the boiling soup. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and start to float to the top. This is where the soup begins to take shape, transforming from a simple broth into a hearty meal!

Simmer and add cream and spinach

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let everything meld together for about 10 minutes. Then, stir in the 2 cups of half and half along with your roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender. This adds a creamy richness and a pop of color to your soup.

Serve it warm, and watch everyone dig in eagerly. Your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is now ready to impress! Enjoy!

Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor

For those who adore a rich depth of flavor, adding mushrooms can take your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to the next level. Sautéing sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms along with the onions and garlic enhances the umami profile, making every spoonful even more satisfying. If you’re into earthy undertones, this small tweak can create a comforting twist that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.

Making it vegetarian-friendly

Want to enjoy your favorite Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup while keeping things plant-based? Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the soup's comforting essence. You can enhance the creaminess with coconut milk or cashew cream, ensuring that every bite is both delicious and ethical. If dairy isn’t an option, almond or oat milk can work wonders, too!

Feel free to experiment and make this soup your own—it’s perfect for customizing to your taste!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creaminess

To elevate the creaminess of your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider using a mix of half and half and heavy cream. The heavy cream adds a luxurious texture that will impress even the pickiest eaters. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, simply adjust the proportion of half and half. Adding the cream gradually allows you to control the richness to your preference.

Notes on Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! You can substitute the fresh spinach with kale for a heartier green, or swap out chicken for turkey if you want a different flavor profile. For the broth, vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative that won’t compromise taste. Experimentation is key, and you might just create your new favorite version of this soup!

Feel free to check out more substitution ideas over at Epicurious for additional inspiration.

Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfect pairings with bread and salad

When enjoying your delicious Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider pairing it with some crusty bread and a fresh salad. A warm slice of garlic bread or a buttery baguette complements the soup's creamy texture beautifully. For a refreshing touch, whip up a crisp mixed greens salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a tangy vinaigrette. This balance of flavors will elevate your dining experience while making it feel like a restaurant outing in the comfort of your home.

Creative ways to serve

Want to impress your guests with your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup presentation? Serve it in elegant bowls or even mini bread bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of flair. Additionally, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or sautéed greens to boost nutrients and color on your plate. These creative serving ideas can transform a simple meal into a delightful culinary experience that everyone will love.

Time Breakdown for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When you're eager to whip up a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, knowing the timing can help keep your dinner plans on track. Here’s a handy breakdown:

Preparation Time

You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep all your ingredients. This quick stage includes chopping your vegetables and dicing cooked chicken, setting the scene for your delicious soup.

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes 20 minutes. This is where all the flavors come together beautifully, with the refrigeration of the chicken broth and gnocchi creating a rich, hearty soup.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you'll have a delightful bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Planning to make this? Be sure to check out more about the ingredients and instructions above for a scrumptious dining experience!

Nutritional Facts for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup contains around 523 calories. This makes it a hearty, satisfying option for lunch or dinner without going overboard on your daily caloric intake.

Protein Content

Packed with 31 grams of protein, this soup not only fills you up but also helps in muscle recovery and maintenance. The diced chicken breasts provide a healthy source of lean protein, making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts.

Sodium Levels

With 622 mg of sodium per serving, it's important to monitor your intake, especially if you’re watching your sodium levels. Using low-sodium chicken broth can help reduce this number while still maintaining the flavor of your beloved soup.

When indulging in this comforting Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you're choosing a nourishing dish that balances flavor and nutrition, perfect for young professionals looking to eat well on a busy schedule. Don't forget to tweak the recipe as needed to suit your dietary preferences! For more health-focused tips, check out Healthline's guide on sodium for further insights!

FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Can I freeze my gnocchi soup?

Yes, you can freeze your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to consume the soup within three months for optimal taste and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.

What can I use instead of half and half?

If you're looking for alternatives to half and half in your soup, consider using whole milk mixed with a little bit of heavy cream to retain that creamy texture. You could also use evaporated milk for a lighter option, or even plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk thickened with cornstarch if you prefer a dairy-free version.

How do I store leftover soup?

Storing leftover Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore its original creamy consistency. Enjoy it as a quick meal for lunch or dinner later in the week!

Conclusion on Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

In conclusion, the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that you can easily recreate at home. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it's sure to impress your friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes!