This hearty, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a classic comfort dish, perfect for any occasion. Loaded with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vegetables, it’s a rich and filling meal that’s quick to prepare. It’s a homemade version of the beloved Olive Garden favorite, but without the wait or cost of dining out!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and flavorful.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved.
- A one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): Cooked and shredded.
- Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought, these pillowy dumplings are essential for the soup.
- Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables.
- Butter: Adds richness to the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for flavor.
- Onion: Diced for a slightly sweet base.
- Carrots: Peeled and diced for added texture.
- Celery: Chopped for that classic soup flavor.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients.
- Chicken broth: The base of your soup.
- Heavy cream: For that creamy, luxurious texture.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
- Parsley: Optional for garnish.
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking and shredding your chicken. Set it aside for later.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot, add butter, then sauté garlic, onions, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant.
- Create the Base: Sprinkle in flour, stirring until the vegetables are coated. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Chicken and Gnocchi: Stir in the shredded chicken and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the gnocchi and let them cook until they float to the surface.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in heavy cream and spinach, allowing the soup to simmer until the spinach wilts.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Helpful Tips:
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth to thin it out.
- Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly; once it floats, it’s ready!
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of cream.
Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Nut-Free, Can be made Dairy-Free
Notes:
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a little extra flour with water and add to the soup as it simmers.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so leftovers may need a splash of broth when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and saves time.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of the gnocchi may change after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, hold off on adding the gnocchi until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use another green vegetable instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes for spinach.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens, stir in some broth to reach your desired consistency.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
Conclusion:
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings the rich flavors of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. It’s creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy meal. Perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and delicious without the hassle!
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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Description
This hearty, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a classic comfort dish, perfect for any occasion. Loaded with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vegetables, it’s a rich and filling meal that’s quick to prepare. It’s a homemade version of the beloved Olive Garden favorite, but without the wait or cost of dining out!
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): Cooked and shredded.
- Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought, these pillowy dumplings are essential for the soup.
- Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables.
- Butter: Adds richness to the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for flavor.
- Onion: Diced for a slightly sweet base.
- Carrots: Peeled and diced for added texture.
- Celery: Chopped for that classic soup flavor.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients.
- Chicken broth: The base of your soup.
- Heavy cream: For that creamy, luxurious texture.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
- Parsley: Optional for garnish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking and shredding your chicken. Set it aside for later.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot, add butter, then sauté garlic, onions, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant.
- Create the Base: Sprinkle in flour, stirring until the vegetables are coated. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Chicken and Gnocchi: Stir in the shredded chicken and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the gnocchi and let them cook until they float to the surface.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in heavy cream and spinach, allowing the soup to simmer until the spinach wilts.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a little extra flour with water and add to the soup as it simmers.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so leftovers may need a splash of broth when reheating.