Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Better Than Olive Garden!

Introduction: A Bowl of Comfort
Few things rival the cozy warmth of a bowl of soup, and the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden has become a timeless favorite. Known for its rich, creamy base filled with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables, this soup is a classic that brings comfort to every spoonful. Whether you’re seeking quick easy soups for dinner or aiming to replicate Olive Garden Gnocchi recipes at home, this guide will take you step-by-step through the process of creating this delicious dish.

What Makes Chicken Gnocchi Soup Special?

• Rich Creaminess: The luscious broth combines cream and chicken stock for a silky texture.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A mix of chicken, gnocchi, and vegetables creates a hearty balance.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer stovetop, crockpot Olive Garden chicken gnocchi, or an Instant Pot, this soup adapts beautifully.
• Homemade Appeal: With this recipe, you’ll master a simple homemade soup recipe that rivals restaurant quality.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden Style

This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to recreate the magic of this classic soup.

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream

For the Protein and Gnocchi:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

For Seasoning and Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Cream of Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

1. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flour doesn’t burn.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Add the half-and-half or cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

1. Stir in the shredded chicken and bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface and is tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the spinach, allowing it to wilt for about 2 minutes.
2. Season with thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, and serve warm with a side of crusty bread or salad.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Choose Fresh Gnocchi: If you have time, make homemade gnocchi for an extra touch of authenticity. Store-bought gnocchi also works wonderfully in this recipe.
2. Customize the Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or add sausage for a different flavor profile.
3. Thick or Thin: For a thicker soup, add more flour to the roux or reduce the liquid slightly. For a thinner consistency, add extra broth or cream.
4. Crockpot Option: For a crockpot Olive Garden chicken gnocchi version, cook the chicken, broth, and vegetables in the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cream and gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Why This Recipe Stands Out Among Simple Homemade Soup Recipes

This soup combines the comfort of chicken soup easy simple with the richness of a creamy base. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal yet elegant enough to serve guests. Best of all, it’s a quick easy soup for dinner that comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Variations and Add-Ons

1. Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicier soup.
3. Seafood Option: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a luxurious seafood gnocchi soup.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of creaminess.

Common Questions About Chicken Soup Olive Garden Gnocchi Recipes

1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! However, the gnocchi may become slightly softer after reheating. Freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add it fresh when reheating for the best texture.

2. What can I serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Pair this soup with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or a simple bruschetta for a complete meal.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Why Try This Creamy Comfort Soup?

This Cream of Gnocchi Soup recipe is not just another soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort. With its blend of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth, it has everything you need for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to adapt to your personal preferences, making it a go-to option for all seasons.