Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy Comfort for Every Occasion
There’s a certain magic that fills the air when you step into a warm kitchen, the aroma of herbs and hearty broth wrapping around you like a soft blanket. Memories of gathering around the table, laughter echoing, and sharing stories over a steaming bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup come vividly to mind. For me, this delightful dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, a recipe passed down and adapted over the years. Ready to create your own cozy memory? Let’s dive into this cherished recipe for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
Why This Recipe Works
This classic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup checks all the right boxes for both the heart and the palate:
- Simplicity: With easily obtainable ingredients, this homemade dish comes together effortlessly.
- Flavor: Rich, creamy, and savory, each spoonful bursts with comforting flavors.
- Versatility: Perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight or as a centerpiece of a festive gathering.
- Tradition: A family favorite that can be passed down through generations, making it a treasured recipe.
- Warmth: It’s an indulgent, cozy meal that warms both the belly and the soul.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, for added richness.
- Carrots: 1 cup, diced, to bring natural sweetness and color.
- Celery: 1 cup, diced, for that familiar comforting crunch.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced, the aromatic base of the soup.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, to infuse depth and flavor.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups, the heart of the soup; use low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced; a rotisserie chicken works wonders for time-saving.
- Gnocchi: 1 pound, the delightful little dumplings that make the soup special.
- Spinach: 2 cups, fresh, for a vibrant pop of color and nutrition.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup, for that luscious, creamy texture.
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, providing a satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Pour in the broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
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Add chicken and gnocchi: Stir in the cooked chicken and gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually about 2-4 minutes, until they float.
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Incorporate spinach and cream: Add the fresh spinach and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer to perfection: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until all the flavors meld beautifully.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy while it’s warm, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add more veggies: Kick up the nutrition by adding peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make it healthier: Substitute half-and-half or cashew cream for heavy cream.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Seasonal versions: In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for a sweet twist.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine a chilly evening where this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the star of the meal. Serve it in bright bowls alongside a simple side salad for a delightful family dinner. It’s also perfect for a potluck; imagine the compliments as friends gather around the table, savoring every spoonful. Or consider dishing it out at your next brunch spread with homemade garlic bread for a comforting afternoon delight.
Storage and Leftovers
This soup is lovely for leftovers! Allow it to cool and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion it in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to regain that creamy consistency.
Pro Kitchen Secrets
- Let it rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after removing from heat; this enhances the flavors.
- Brighten it up: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can elevate the taste profile.
- Use fresh herbs: For a vibrant finish, add chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Follow the storage tips above for freezing, but be aware that the gnocchi may change texture upon thawing.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Try using half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Definitely! Fresh or frozen gnocchi works well; just follow the cooking instructions on the package!
What type of chicken is best for the soup?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Alternatively, poached chicken breast adds a homemade touch.
Conclusion
In every bowl of this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, there lies a world of warmth and comfort that is simply irreplaceable. Cooking this easy recipe is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating moments filled with love, stories, and laughter. So, gather your loved ones, share this culinary masterpiece, and let it weave its magic around your table. Try it today, and don’t forget to come back to share your experience!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chicken broth to the pot, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually about 2-4 minutes, until they float.
- Add the fresh spinach and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy while it’s warm, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.