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); ½ cup white onion (diced); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; ½ cup shredded carrots; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups low sodium chicken broth; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 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

Finding the perfect comfort food can feel like searching for a warm hug on a chilly day, and the beloved Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup delivers just that! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a rich and creamy broth. It's no wonder that this soup has become a staple for those seeking a cozy meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Why Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a Comfort Food Favorite

The Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup seamlessly blends heartiness with comfort, making it an ideal choice for any time of year. Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something warm and satisfying; this soup checks all the boxes.

First and foremost, the gnocchi provides the perfect texture, offering a satisfying bite that pairs beautifully with the savory broth. The finely diced vegetables add freshness, while the combination of half and half and chicken broth creates a velvety base that soothes your senses. With its balanced flavors and nutritional goodness, this soup is sure to leave you feeling fulfilled.

Ready to warm your heart? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Olive Garden right into your kitchen! For more inspiration, check out this guide on kitchen essentials to ensure you’re stocked up for cooking adventures.

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Essential ingredients for a hearty soup

When it comes to crafting the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that rich, comforting flavor we all crave. Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up this cozy dish at home.

Chicken: Start with 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced. This provides the protein that makes the soup satisfying.
Veggies: You’ll need a stalk of chopped celery, a half diced white onion, and a handful of shredded carrots to bring sweetness and texture. Don’t forget 2 teaspoons of minced garlic for that aromatic punch!
Chicken Broth: Use 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth as the flavorful base. It’s a game-changer for depth.
Gnocchi: The star of the show! Use 16 ounces of potato gnocchi for that signature chewy bite.
Creamy Finish: Stir in 2 cups of half-and-half—this gives the soup a velvety texture that’s hard to resist.

Explore more about the health benefits of these ingredients on Healthline. Happy cooking!

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

Cooking your own Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home can be a delightful experience! Not only will you impress your friends and family with your culinary skills, but you'll also enjoy a comforting bowl of soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Here's how to prepare this delicious dish step-by-step, ensuring every bite is as good as it gets.

Gather and prepare the ingredients

First things first: you want to get organized by gathering all your ingredients together. 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

For everything from cooking tips to ingredient sourcing, check out this resource.

Sauté your veggies to build flavor

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. It’s time to build a flavor base! Add the chopped celery, diced onions, minced garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent. The aromas will be irresistible! This sautéing phase is essential as it enhances the overall flavor of your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Add chicken and broth, and bring it to a boil

Next, toss in your cooked and diced chicken, along with the chicken broth. Season the mix with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Bringing this to a boil is the key to blending those flavors beautifully. Remember not to rush; let it boil for a couple of minutes, providing those delightful tastes a chance to meld.

Incorporate the gnocchi for that perfect texture

Once you have your bubbling broth, it's time to add in the potato gnocchi. Stir gently, and allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes. This is where your soup gets its comforting heartiness. After that, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Stir in half and half and spinach for creaminess

Lastly, pour in the half and half and then add in the chopped spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Not only does this add a rich creaminess to your soup, but it also boosts the nutritional value. Once everything is well combined, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Now you have a homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser! With these simple steps, you'll create a meal that shines with comforting flavors and heartwarming satisfaction. Enjoy every spoonful!

Variations on Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Adding greens and herbs for extra flavor

To elevate your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider incorporating more greens and herbs. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the flavor, while adding kale or Swiss chard provides a nutritional boost. Simply stir in a handful during the last few minutes of cooking for that fresh bite. You might even try a sprinkle of dill for a surprising twist!

Modifying for dietary preferences: Vegetarian and gluten-free options

If you’re seeking a vegetarian twist on the classic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, swap in vegetable broth and replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. For gluten-free fans, look for gluten-free gnocchi varieties available in stores or online. For a special treat, you can experiment with homemade gnocchi using gluten-free flour. With these modifications, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out Cooking Light for healthy adaptations and ideas!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

How to Make It Creamier

For that luscious, creamy texture that makes the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup irresistible, consider swapping out one cup of half and half for heavy cream. This simple switch elevates the flavor profile, giving it that luxurious richness. You can also incorporate a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy finish!

Tips for Storing and Reheating Properly

Leftovers can be a lifesaver! To store your soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid boiling, as this can change the texture of the gnocchi. For best results, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help maintain creaminess while reheating. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfect pairings: bread and salads

When serving your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider the warmth of freshly baked bread or a crisp salad to complement its creamy richness. A side of garlic bread, with its buttery and garlicky goodness, will make every spoonful even more enjoyable. Alternatively, a light green salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette balances the soup's flavors perfectly. You could explore this delicious simple Italian salad recipe for a fresh touch.

Creative ways to serve leftovers

Don't let any leftovers go to waste! Transform your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup into a hearty pasta dish by adding some cooked penne or fusilli, creating a new experience with minimal effort. Alternatively, consider making a comforting baked dish by layering the soup with cheese and breadcrumbs and baking until golden. Another fun option? Use the soup as a flavorful sauce for chicken or beef, enhancing both moisture and taste. This way, you can let your creativity shine!

Time Breakdown for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Preparation Time

Spending about 10-15 minutes chopping vegetables and dicing chicken will get you off to a great start for the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped the ingredients, the cooking process will take around 20-25 minutes. This includes sautéing the veggies, boiling the soup, and letting it all meld together into a comforting delight.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need about 30-40 minutes to whip up this delicious soup from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal! Feel free to play with the flavors—add a little garlic or swap in some seasonings that you love!

If you want to explore variations, check out this great resource on seasonal ingredients here. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Nutritional Facts for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When it comes to enjoying a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, understanding its nutritional profile can help you make mindful choices. Here’s a brief look at what you’re getting in each hearty serving:

Calories

With approximately 523 calories per serving, this soup offers a satisfying meal without being overly indulgent, perfect for a cozy evening in.

Protein

Not only is this soup delicious, but it also packs about 31 grams of protein. The chicken and gnocchi provide ample protein to keep you feeling full and nourished.

Sodium

For those watching their sodium intake, the soup contains around 622 milligrams of sodium. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth is a smart choice to keep the flavor while managing salt levels.

Understanding these nutritional facts allows you to enjoy your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with confidence and balance in mind! For a deeper dive into meal prep tips and nutritional insights, consider checking out sources like the USDA FoodData Central for more detailed food information.

FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Can I freeze the soup for later?

Absolutely! Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container after it has cooled completely. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Keep in mind that the gnocchi's texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious!

What can I substitute for half and half?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to half and half, you can use a combination of milk and heavy cream to maintain that creamy richness. A great ratio is 1 cup of milk with ½ cup of heavy cream. Alternatively, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk can work if you prefer a dairy-free option, though the consistency will differ a bit.

How do I make it spicier?

Want to add a little kick to your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce while cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, you can include minced jalapeños or serrano peppers. Start with small amounts and adjust to your spice preference!

Feel free to check out other soup tips and recipes on sites like Serious Eats or Food Network. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating a comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is simpler than you'd think! With tender chicken, delicious gnocchi, and vibrant spinach, this dish delivers both warmth and flavor. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or for entertaining, it’s sure to impress everyone around the table. Be sure to try it out!