Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Nothing says comfort like a homemade pot of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup brimming with pillowy gnocchi, juicy strands of chicken, and a swirl of cream. I started making this soup on chilly evenings when dinner had to be both fast and deeply satisfying—it quickly became a favorite with everyone who gathered around our table, especially when I served it with chunks of garlicky bread.

Ingredients

• Butter: for sautéing and building that rich velvety base choose a good quality unsalted variety
• Celery: diced very fine provides aromatic depth and a gentle crunch pick crisp stalks
• Yellow onion: diced for sweetness and body sweeter onions will give the soup a mellow flavor
• Fresh garlic: minced brings essential aroma and warmth look for firm cloves
• Shredded carrots: for a pop of color and sweetness pre-shredded saves time
• Chicken broth: forms the flavorful backbone choose low sodium for better control over seasoning
• Cornstarch: for gentle thickening ensures a creamy but not heavy texture make sure it is lump free
• Fresh thyme or dried thyme: giving fragrant herbal notes fresh sprigs bring an extra lift
• Gnocchi: soft potato dumplings that make the soup extra hearty fresh or frozen both work
• Cooked shredded chicken: for protein and texture rotisserie chicken is the fastest shortcut
• Fresh spinach: roughly chopped for a burst of green and nutrients look for vibrant leaves
• Heavy cream: stirred in at the end for a luxurious finish full fat cream is best for richness
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper: to taste always finish with a sprinkle of each for balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start the Aromatic Base:

Melt butter in a large heavy pot over medium heat Add diced celery onion garlic and carrots Sauté gently for five to six minutes stirring occasionally until everything is tender and aromatic Your kitchen should smell wonderful and the vegetables will soften but not brown

Thicken the Broth:

In a small bowl stir together the cornstarch with a couple tablespoons of chicken broth until smooth Pour this mixture into the pot with the vegetables Whisk in the rest of the chicken broth and add the thyme This creates a soup base that feels silky without being heavy

Cook the Gnocchi:

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer Slide in the gnocchi Let the gnocchi cook for three to five minutes They will float to the surface when done which means they are soft and ready

Add Chicken and Spinach:

Stir in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach Let cook for two to three more minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the broth This step builds flavor and makes the soup feel hearty

Finish with Cream:

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring Warm the soup just until steaming hot but do not let it boil Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve right away with crusty garlic bread

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Storage Tips

Let leftover soup cool completely before storing Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate It stays good for up to five days I recommend reheating gently on the stove and adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the texture if needed

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of gnocchi small pasta shapes like ditalini or baby shells will work well For extra flavor try stirring in a handful of fresh basil instead of spinach You can use half and half for a lighter soup or swap the heavy cream with evaporated milk

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delicious alongside a loaf of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls For a full Olive Garden style meal add a simple green salad with Italian dressing Sprinkle each bowl of soup with Parmesan cheese for extra richness

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Cultural or Historical Context

Inspired by the beloved Olive Garden classic chicken gnocchi soup combines Italian dumplings and American comfort With its origins in rustic, homey cooking gnocchi soup became a popular menu staple thanks to its creamy texture and familiar flavors It shows how Italian American kitchens make the most of humble ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I know the gnocchi are fully cooked?

Gnocchi are ready when they rise to the surface of the simmering broth and become tender after about 3-5 minutes.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well, saving time and adding convenience to the preparation.

→ Is it possible to make this soup ahead?

Absolutely. The soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, enhancing its flavors.

→ What type of gnocchi is best for this dish?

Fresh, frozen, or homemade gnocchi all work beautifully. Choose what you have on hand for ease and texture preference.

→ How can I adjust the seasoning?

Season with extra salt, cracked pepper, or additional thyme to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to customize for your palate.

→ What should I serve alongside?

Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.