Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden: Recipe & Easy Homemade Version

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden copycat recipes are all the rage, and for good reason! Imagine a creamy, comforting bowl filled with tender shredded chicken, pillowy soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, all swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re simply craving a taste of pure comfort.

While the exact origins of chicken gnocchi soup are difficult to pinpoint, it’s clear that this dish draws inspiration from classic Italian cuisine. Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, have been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries. Combining them with chicken and a creamy broth creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both familiar and exciting.

What makes this particular version, the Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden rendition, so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The creamy broth is rich and decadent, while the tender chicken and soft gnocchi provide a delightful contrast. The addition of fresh vegetables adds a touch of brightness and freshness, making it a truly well-rounded and satisfying soup. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of a restaurant favorite made right in their own kitchen? Get ready to recreate this iconic soup and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Gnocchi:
• 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• For the Soup:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Making the Gnocchi:

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Use a potato ricer or masher to mash the potatoes until smooth. It’s crucial to remove any lumps for a light and airy gnocchi.
3. Cool Slightly: Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This will prevent the egg from cooking when you add it.
4. Add Egg and Seasonings: Add the lightly beaten egg, salt, and nutmeg to the mashed potatoes. Mix well to combine.
5. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will result in tough gnocchi. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
6. Shape the Gnocchi: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead it a few times to form a smooth ball. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
7. Roll into Ropes: Roll each portion of dough into a long rope about 1/2 inch in diameter.
8. Cut into Pieces: Use a knife or dough scraper to cut the ropes into 1/2-inch pieces. These are your gnocchi!
9. Optional: Add Ridges: For a more traditional look, you can roll each gnocchi piece over the tines of a fork to create ridges. This also helps the sauce cling to the gnocchi.
10. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches. They are cooked when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
11. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked gnocchi from the water and drain well. Set aside.

Preparing the Soup:

1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add Cream and Milk: Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Heat through, but do not boil.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Return Chicken to Pot: Add the cooked chicken back to the pot.
8. Add Gnocchi: Gently stir in the cooked gnocchi.
9. Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
10. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to your liking.

Serving the Soup:

1. Ladle into Bowls: Ladle the Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the soup immediately and enjoy! This soup is best served fresh.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overmix the Gnocchi Dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough gnocchi. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use a Potato Ricer: A potato ricer will create the smoothest mashed potatoes, which is essential for light and airy gnocchi. If you don’t have a ricer, make sure to mash the potatoes very thoroughly.
• Cook Gnocchi in Batches: Cooking the gnocchi in batches will prevent them from sticking together and ensure they cook evenly.
• Adjust the Soup Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup while it’s simmering.
• Make Ahead: You can make the gnocchi ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the soup base ahead of time and add the gnocchi and spinach just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The gnocchi may become slightly softer upon reheating.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or peas.
• Use Different Protein: You can substitute the chicken with Italian sausage, turkey, or even shrimp.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.
• Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy soup, stir in 2 ounces of softened cream cheese along with the heavy cream and milk.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic reimagined for your home kitchen. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Honestly, you absolutely must try this Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden copycat recipe. It’s simpler than you think, and the results are truly spectacular.

Think of it: a chilly evening, the aroma of simmering herbs filling your kitchen, and the anticipation of that first spoonful. This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect way to impress your family, wow your friends, or simply treat yourself to something special. And the best part? It’s easily customizable to suit your preferences.

Want to kick up the spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian option? Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You could even add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor. For a richer, more decadent soup, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or heavy cream just before serving. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions? A crusty loaf of bread for dipping is an absolute must. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the soup beautifully. And for a truly authentic Olive Garden experience, don’t forget the breadsticks! You can even try making your own homemade breadsticks to really impress your guests.

But beyond the variations and serving suggestions, the real magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the sheer joy it brings. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for any occasion. It’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite, requested time and time again.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden inspired recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of soup lovers, all united by our shared appreciation for this incredible dish. I’m confident that once you taste this soup, you’ll agree that it’s a must-try recipe that deserves a permanent place in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!