Dinner Recipes

January 12, 2026

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 5 Cozy Comfort Tips

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 5 Cozy Comfort Tips

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Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup to wrap you in warmth and comfort! This creamy delight is like a hug in a bowl, with tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and colorful veggies all swimming in a rich, luscious broth. It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. I remember the first time I tried it—I was instantly hooked! The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on a chilly day or when you’re in need of a little cozy meal. Trust me, once you make this soup, it’ll become a regular in your kitchen rotation!

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a beautifully creamy and hearty soup that’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to make adjustments based on your taste—like using rotisserie chicken for ease or even tossing in some fresh spinach for an added nutritional boost!

How to Prepare Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this scrumptious Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy pot of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

First things first, let’s heat up that olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and softened. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and the whole kitchen starts to smell amazing!

Step 2: Add Herbs and Garlic

Next, it’s time to amp up the flavor! Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot. Cook for just about 1 minute, stirring constantly—this is when your kitchen will fill with that delightful aroma. It’s so important not to let the garlic brown, so keep an eye on it!

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Now, let’s pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil, and once it’s bubbling away, carefully add in your shredded chicken. Give it a good stir and let the magic happen! This should take about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Gnocchi

It’s gnocchi time! Add the package of gnocchi right into your bubbling broth. Cook for about 3–5 minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender. They’ll puff up just a bit, and that’s when you know they’re done. Keep stirring gently to keep everything combined.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Finally, let’s make this soup creamy! Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. I always recommend tasting it at this stage—don’t be shy! If you think it needs a little more seasoning, go ahead and adjust. Let it simmer for just a couple more minutes before serving, and wow, you’re in for a treat!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this delightful Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg

This soup is not just comforting; it’s hearty too! With a nice balance of protein and carbs, it’s a meal that will keep you satisfied. So, whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it at a family gathering, you can feel good about indulging in this creamy goodness!

Tips for Success

olive garden chicken gnocchi soup - detail 1

Alright, my friend, let’s make sure you nail this Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup! Here are some of my top tips for success that’ll have your soup tasting as wonderful as it does at the restaurant:

Use Quality Chicken: If you’ve got the time, roasting a whole chicken and shredding it is a game-changer. But if you’re in a pinch, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store—it’s wonderfully convenient and oh-so-flavorful!
Don’t Rush the Veggies: Make sure to sauté your veggies until they’re soft. This step builds a great flavor base, so don’t skip it! You want those onions to be sweet and translucent.
Fresh Herbs: If you can, use fresh thyme and parsley instead of dried. They add a burst of flavor that really elevates the soup. Just remember to adjust the quantities since fresh herbs are more potent!
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, feel free to use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’ll still be creamy but with a bit less richness. Alternatively, you can add some more chicken broth for a brothier version.
Add Greens: Tossing in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and add a pop of color. Plus, it wilts down beautifully!
Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, and adjust as needed. Different broths can vary in saltiness, so it’s always best to season to your liking.
Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, store the soup and gnocchi separately to prevent the gnocchi from getting too soggy. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove for the best texture.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set to create a delicious, comforting bowl of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup every time. Happy cooking!

Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, there are so many fun ways to customize this Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup! Here are some delicious variations that you can try to cater to your taste buds or use what you have on hand:

Veggie Packed: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add in some chopped spinach, kale, or even broccoli. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and fresh!
Mushroom Madness: For mushroom lovers, sauté some sliced mushrooms along with your veggies in the beginning. They’ll add a lovely earthy flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. You could also stir in a dash of hot sauce at the end for an extra kick!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Basil, rosemary, or even a hint of dill can bring a new twist to the flavor profile. Just remember to adjust based on your preference and the intensity of the herbs!
Cheesy Goodness: Want to take it to the next level? Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese just before serving. It’ll melt into the soup and add an extra layer of creaminess and richness.
Protein Swap: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using shredded turkey or even diced sausage for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, use vegetable broth, and swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a nut-based cream. You’ll still get that creamy texture without the dairy!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor the soup to your family’s preferences. So don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own—happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this heavenly Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! Trust me, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some delicious ideas that pair perfectly with your creamy soup:

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some warm, crusty garlic bread! It’s perfect for dipping into that rich broth, and the flavors just complement each other beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and freshness to your meal. The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons are a great contrast to the soup’s smoothness.
Caprese Skewers: For a light and refreshing option, serve some caprese skewers with fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze. They’re super easy to make and add a burst of flavor!
Roasted Vegetables: Try serving a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The caramelized flavors from roasting will be a delightful addition to your meal.
Herb Focaccia: A slice of herb focaccia is another fantastic option. Its soft texture and fragrant herbs make it a great partner for scooping up that creamy soup!
Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the soup and add some vibrant color to your plate.
Cheese Platter: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, a small cheese platter with assorted cheeses, olives, and crackers can be a hit. It’s a fun way to start the meal and sets a cozy vibe!

These side dishes not only enhance your dining experience but also allow you to create a cozy, comforting meal that friends and family will absolutely love. Enjoy every bite of your Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup and its delightful companions!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store that delicious Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup so you can enjoy it later! Proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and tasty. Here’s what you need to know:

Storing Leftovers: Once your soup has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help prevent any odors from other foods in your fridge from sneaking in. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing for Later: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave out the gnocchi if you plan to freeze it, as they can become too mushy. Instead, freeze the base of the soup and add fresh gnocchi when you reheat it. It’ll taste like it was just made!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. If it seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Microwave Option: You can also microwave it if you’re in a hurry! Just pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.
Final Touch: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating! Sometimes, the flavors can mellow out, so a pinch of salt and pepper might be just what you need to bring it back to life.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup multiple times without losing any of that creamy goodness. Enjoy your cozy meals, my friend!

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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 5 Cozy Comfort Tips

Mia

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup