Savory Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Are you craving a warm, hearty bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup? You’re in the right place! This recipe brings the delicious flavors of the restaurant right to your kitchen. I’m excited to show you how to create this savory dish at home with simple ingredients. Let’s dive into the world of creamy broth, tender chicken, and the perfect gnocchi that will warm your heart. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 6 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup potato gnocchi

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

You can add more taste with these options:

– A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

– Fresh herbs like basil or parsley

– A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Nutritional Information per Serving

This soup is rich and filling. Each serving has:

– Calories: 400

– Protein: 30g

– Carbohydrates: 35g

– Fat: 20g

– Fiber: 2g

– Sodium: 800mg

This soup offers a good balance of protein and carbs. It warms you up while keeping you satisfied.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cooking the Vegetables

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, diced, and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 medium carrots, diced, and 2 celery stalks, diced. Cook these for another 5 minutes until they soften a bit.

Adding Chicken and Broth

Now, it’s time to add flavor. Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken into the pot. Mix it well with the veggies. Then, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. This helps all the flavors to blend together.

Cooking the Gnocchi

Once the broth is boiling, add in 1 cup of potato gnocchi. Follow the package instructions, usually cooking for about 2-3 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they are ready. This means they are cooked perfectly!

Finishing Steps

Incorporating Cream and Seasonings

After the gnocchi are floating, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream for that rich flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together well.

Adding Spinach and Serving

Next, gently fold in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach. Let it wilt for about 2 minutes. This adds a nice color and nutrients. Now, remove the pot from heat. Serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra taste!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Gnocchi

Cooking gnocchi can be simple if you follow a few tips. First, always check the package for cooking times. Most gnocchi cooks in just 2-3 minutes. Make sure to use plenty of water when boiling. This will help the gnocchi cook evenly. Add a pinch of salt to the water for extra flavor. When the gnocchi float, they are ready to serve. Don’t let them sit too long in the water, or they will become mushy.

How to Avoid Overcooking Ingredients

Overcooking can ruin your soup. Start by sautéing your onions and garlic until soft but not brown. Cook your carrots and celery just until tender. When you add the chicken and broth, bring it to a gentle boil. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Once you add the gnocchi, watch them closely. They cook fast! Finally, add the cream and spinach at the end. This keeps the spinach bright green and the cream fresh.

Presentation Tips for Serving

Presentation makes your soup look special. Use rustic bowls for a cozy feel. Ladle the soup carefully to avoid spills. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a lovely touch. Adding a sprig of fresh thyme or basil can brighten the dish. Serve with warm bread on the side. This makes your meal even better. A well-presented soup makes everyone happy and ready to dig in!

Variations

Gluten-Free Version of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To make a gluten-free version, first, swap the potato gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi. You can find this at most grocery stores. Next, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Many brands offer this. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy soup without worry.

Vegetarian Alternative

For a vegetarian alternative, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Replace the chicken with your favorite veggies, like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas for extra protein. This version still has the creamy texture and great flavor.

Adding Different Proteins

If you want to switch up the protein, try using turkey or shrimp. For turkey, use cooked and shredded meat, just like with chicken. If using shrimp, add them when the gnocchi cooks. They only need a few minutes to cook through. Each protein gives a new twist to the soup.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Soup

To keep your soup fresh, let it cool first. Pour it into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Label the container with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, pour it into a pot. Heat it over medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If it gets too thick, add a little chicken broth or water. Heat until it’s hot throughout, but do not boil.

Freezing and Thawing Tips

You can freeze this soup for later. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. It will stay good for about three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above. Enjoy your delicious soup anytime!

FAQs

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich and creamy dish. It features tender gnocchi, cooked chicken, and fresh vegetables. The soup has a warm, comforting taste that many love. The blend of herbs, like thyme and oregano, adds depth to the flavor. Spinach gives it a pop of color and nutrition. This soup makes a perfect meal or a side dish.

How long can you keep the soup in the fridge?

You can keep the soup in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. When you reheat it, stir well to combine the ingredients again. If it looks thicker, add a little broth or water while heating.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients in this soup. If you don’t have chicken, use cooked turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option. You can swap heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative. For the gnocchi, you can use pasta or dumplings if needed. Just remember that the taste may change slightly.

Where can I find Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can find Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at any Olive Garden restaurant. Many people enjoy it as part of their meals. If you want to make it at home, follow the recipe I shared above. You can easily recreate this delicious soup in your own kitchen.

In this blog post, we covered the key ingredients in Chicken Gnocchi Soup, including optional items for added flavor. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you cook this delicious dish, with tips to perfect your cooking process. We also explored variations, like gluten-free and vegetarian options. Lastly, I provided storage tips for leftovers and answered common questions.

Now, you can easily make your own Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your tabl

<!-- /wp:freefo