Name: Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Guide
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

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Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Guide 🥣🍗🌿

1. Introduction

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting soups, then the chicken gnocchi soup is a must-try dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, delicate gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. Inspired by popular Italian-style soups, this creamy chicken soup offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm you up on chilly days. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a small gathering, this Italian gnocchi soup recipe is sure to impress.

2. Ingredients for the Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
16 oz potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish

For more comforting pasta dishes, check out this Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by cooking the chicken breasts until fully cooked. You can boil, bake, or sauté them. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Meanwhile, dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Sautéing Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Soup Base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the broth simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Adding Gnocchi and Chicken

Gently add the potato gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the top. Stir in the shredded chicken and let everything heat through.

Incorporating the Cream and Greens

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to a month. Keep in mind that gnocchi may change texture slightly after freezing and reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Creamy Italian Gnocchi Soup

This chicken gnocchi soup is perfect served with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation. For a lighter option, pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. The flavor will remain rich and satisfying.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly, just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

What are good substitutions for fresh spinach?

You can substitute chopped kale, Swiss chard, or arugula. These greens add nutrition and flavor, just like spinach.

How long does it take to prepare this chicken gnocchi soup?

With prep and cooking, expect about 30-40 minutes total. It’s an easy, quick option for weeknight dinners.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — makes chopping garlic and vegetables effortless, saving you time and effort.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — perfect if you want to prepare the chicken in advance or make the soup with slow-cooked chicken.
KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — useful for making homemade gnocchi or preparing other pasta doughs.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast — great for cooking chicken quickly and juicy before shredding for the soup.

Investing in quality kitchen tools can improve your cooking experience and help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

8. Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Chicken Soup

Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Do not add the heavy cream until the soup has simmered to prevent curdling.
Adjust the thickness by adding more or less chicken broth or cream.
Add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

9. Conclusion

This chicken gnocchi soup recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy richness and hearty ingredients, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this Italian gnocchi soup is guaranteed to satisfy. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and enjoy the process of creating this delicious, soul-warming dish!

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide