Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium carrots (diced); 2 stalks celery (diced); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; to taste salt; to taste black pepper; for serving grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Why Make This Recipe

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italian cuisine into your kitchen. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with veggies and protein. This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year. Whether you are looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a satisfying bowl yourself, this soup is sure to please everyone.

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How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 medium carrots (diced)
2 stalks celery (diced)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
to taste salt
to taste black pepper
for serving grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the dried thyme and basil, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken and gnocchi. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
Stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serve this delightful soup in warm bowls, ensuring each serving is topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair it with a crusty bread or a simple side salad to complete the meal. This soup is great for lunch or dinner and can also be a comforting treat on chilly days.

How to Store Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To store any leftover soup, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Make sure to cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions for the best texture.
Feel free to add more vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to enhance the soup.
For a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream or substitute it with milk.

Variation

You can switch out the chicken for cooked sausage or turkey for a different protein option. You can also try adding different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. Just remember that the gnocchi may absorb some liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a bit more broth or cream when reheating.

3. Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with vegetables and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Just omit the chicken and add more veggies and seasonings to your liking.