Bring the comfort of Olive Garden right to your kitchen with this creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s a cozy and satisfying dish filled with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and colorful veggies simmered in a rich, savory broth. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or simply craving a warm, restaurant-style meal, this soup is a sure hit.
Why You’ll Love It
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It offers everything you want in a comforting meal: creamy texture, tender bites of chicken, and wholesome vegetables. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- ½ white onion, diced
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Optional: Grated parmesan for garnish
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Add Carrots and Seasonings: Stir in shredded carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to release the flavors.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the cooked chicken and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the half and half. Mix in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Taste and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi or it may become mushy.
- For a thicker soup, add a cornstarch slurry or a bit of flour while sautéing.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty rolls.
- Serve alongside a Caesar salad or Caprese salad for a full meal.
- Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan and fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth.
- Dairy-free: Swap half and half with coconut or almond milk.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Conclusion
This creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you want in a comfort food dish: hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a repeat recipe in your kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a cozy night in, this soup is the perfect way to warm up and satisfy.