There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day! One of my absolute favorites is olive garden chicken gnocchi—it’s creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi swimming in a rich chicken broth, loaded with shredded chicken, and kissed by the warmth of garlic and thyme. Trust me, the first spoonful will have you dreaming of a quaint Italian bistro, minus the travel hassles! Plus, it’s super simple to whip up at home, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you just want to treat yourself. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the best olive garden chicken gnocchi. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This will be the base for sautéing your veggies and adds a lovely richness.
- 1 cup diced carrots: Fresh, sweet carrots bring color and a hint of sweetness to the soup.
- 1 cup diced celery: Adds crunch and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 onion, chopped: This will give your soup a savory foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: You can’t have Italian without garlic! It adds aromatic magic.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken for a homemade touch.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Choose low-sodium for better control over the saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy and rich.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi: Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi; both work beautifully!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A dash of this herb enhances the soup’s comforting flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a deliciously comforting bowl of soup that’ll warm your heart and soul!
How to Prepare Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic really happens, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Here’s how to bring this creamy delight to life:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking—this is where the veggies will get that lovely sautéed flavor.
- Next, toss in the diced carrots, celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give them a good stir and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
- Now, it’s time to add in the shredded chicken along with the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, and don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pot to get all those tasty bits!
- Once boiling, gently stir in the gnocchi and sprinkle the dried thyme over the top. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know the gnocchi are ready when they float to the top—just like little fluffy clouds!
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes. This is the moment the soup transforms into a creamy masterpiece. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, and watch as all the flavors meld together!
- Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch. Trust me, every spoonful will be a warm hug!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making olive garden chicken gnocchi at home is a game changer! Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Quick and easy: It comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful comfort: The creamy texture and rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in extra veggies like spinach or swap out the chicken for something else!
- One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
- Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this hearty soup!
Trust me, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your olive garden chicken gnocchi experience, here are some of my favorite tips for success:
- Use quality chicken broth: The flavor of your broth can make or break your soup. Opt for a low-sodium variety so you can control the saltiness.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi: They only need a few minutes to cook, so keep an eye on them! Once they float to the top, they’re ready to mingle with the creamy goodness.
- Add veggies: Feel free to sneak in some fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition. They’ll wilt beautifully and blend right in!
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute some of the heavy cream with more broth. It’ll still be delicious!
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that brightens up each bowl.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to impress with this comforting soup!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying olive garden chicken gnocchi, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But it’s safe to say that this creamy soup is a hearty and satisfying option that’s worth every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect olive garden chicken gnocchi? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
Can I use frozen gnocchi? Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that it won’t be as rich and creamy.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! It’s a great make-ahead meal. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What can I add for extra flavor? Feel free to toss in some fresh herbs like basil or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick. They’ll brighten up the whole dish!
Is this soup gluten-free? Yes! As long as you use gluten-free gnocchi, this delicious soup is a wonderful gluten-free option!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftover olive garden chicken gnocchi is super simple! Just let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as it will expand when frozen.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to get it back to that dreamy, creamy consistency!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal complete, consider pairing your olive garden chicken gnocchi with a simple side salad. A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy soup perfectly. You can also serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping—because who can resist that? If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of the soup can elevate it even further. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and hearty soup featuring chicken and gnocchi.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in shredded chicken and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and thyme. Reduce heat and simmer until gnocchi are cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream. Cook for 5 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add spinach for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: olive garden chicken gnocchi, chicken gnocchi soup, Italian soup
