Easy Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

by

Savor the creamy, hearty goodness of this Easy Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! A restaurant-style delight made easily at home.

Introduction

Craving the famous Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup but want to skip the dining-out hassle? You’re in the right place! This Easy Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you love — rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors — made effortlessly in your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients! Let’s dive into this must-try recipe.

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This dish is a luscious, creamy soup brimming with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and aromatic vegetables. Known for its rich texture and comforting flavor, it’s one of Olive Garden’s most beloved menu items. The best part? You can recreate this classic in your kitchen without compromising taste or quality.

A Brief History of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Gnocchi, the star ingredient of this soup, has Italian roots dating back to the Roman Empire. Originally made from semolina or breadcrumbs, gnocchi evolved into the soft potato-based dumplings we know today. This soup combines traditional Italian gnocchi with a creamy chicken base, bringing together the best of comfort food and culinary heritage.

Seasonal and Cultural Relevance

Best Season for the Recipe

This soup is ideal for fall and winter when hearty, warming dishes take center stage. However, its balanced flavors make it enjoyable year-round.

Cultural Relevance

Italian-American cuisine celebrates dishes like this, which merge Italian traditions with American comfort food sensibilities. It’s perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient List

  • Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) – Tender protein source.
  • Potato gnocchi – Soft, pillowy dumplings.
  • Spinach – Fresh or frozen, adds vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Carrots and celery – Aromatic vegetables for depth.
  • Yellow onion – Sweet and savory base flavor.
  • Garlic – Enhances the savory profile.
  • Chicken broth – Rich, flavorful base.
  • Heavy cream – For that signature creamy texture.
  • All-purpose flour – Thickening agent.
  • Butter – Adds richness.
  • Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning – For seasoning.

Nutritional Breakdown

  • Calories per serving: ~300-350
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fats: 15g

Preparation Steps

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Sauté diced chicken breast until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and carrots.
    • Cook until vegetables are softened.
  3. Create the Base:
    • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
    • Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Add Cream and Seasoning:
    • Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Incorporate Gnocchi and Spinach:
    • Bring the soup to a simmer and add gnocchi.
    • Cook for 3-5 minutes until gnocchi float to the surface.
    • Add spinach and cooked chicken. Stir well.
  6. Adjust Consistency:
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Tools and Techniques

Essential Tools

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Whisk for creating a smooth base
  • Sharp knife for chopping vegetables

Special Techniques

  • Whisk flour into the broth slowly to ensure a lump-free texture.
  • Sauté vegetables over medium heat to enhance their natural sweetness.

Variations and Alternatives

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.

Creative Twists

  • Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan cheese before serving for extra richness.

Pairings and Accompaniments

This soup pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic breadsticks
  • Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
  • A light, fruity iced tea

Comparison with Similar Recipes

Unlike other creamy soups, this dish stands out for its balance of hearty ingredients and velvety broth. It’s less dense than chowder yet more satisfying than a simple broth-based soup.

Health and Wellness Aspects

Benefits

  • High protein content supports muscle repair.
  • Spinach adds vitamins A and C.
  • Gnocchi provides energy-boosting carbohydrates.

Adjustments for Diets

  • Use gluten-free gnocchi and flour for gluten sensitivity.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

What is the nutritional value of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup?

A serving typically contains around 300-350 calories, 20g protein, and 15g fat.

What soup is Olive Garden famous for?

Olive Garden is renowned for its Zuppa Toscana, Minestrone, and Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

How long is chicken gnocchi soup good for in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

What is the history of gnocchi soup?

Rooted in Italian cuisine, gnocchi soup blends soft dumplings with rich broth, showcasing Italian comfort food at its best.

Suggested Recipes

For more savory recipes, you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.

Leave a Comment