Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Deliciously Cozy Comfort Food Soup

Growing up in Orlando, my heart danced between two cultures: the vibrant spice of Mexico and the comforting warmth of Florida. I can still picture the sun streaming through the kitchen window as my mama and I pressed fresh tortillas, the smell of sizzling cheese filling the air, and laughter spilling over like our bubbling pots. It’s these cherished moments that taught me that food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a way to share love and stories, creating memories one bite at a time. Today, I invite you to savor that joyous connection with a heaping bowl of homemade chicken gnocchi soup, where every spoonful brings warmth and comfort.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-American
Best Season: Fall/Winter

Top Reasons to Make It

Comforting Taste: This soup offers a delightfully creamy texture that envelops your senses, reminiscent of cozy evenings wrapped in your favorite blanket.
Quick and Easy: Whip up this delicious bowl of goodness in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
Versatile Ingredients: With a mix of vegetables, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi, you can customize it to fit your taste preferences or use up what’s in your fridge.
Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this dish, from kids to adults; it’s the ultimate family meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Impressive Presentation: Beautifully garnished, this soup looks as good as it tastes, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.

Ingredients List

4 tablespoons Butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup finely diced onion
1/2 cup finely diced celery
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 quart half-and-half
28 ounces chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
1 cup spinach leaves (coarsely chopped)
1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast
16 ounces package ready-to-use gnocchi

Ingredient Tips

Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness in your soup.
Half-and-Half: For a lighter version, substitute with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to keep the flavors balanced and healthy.
Spinach: Fresh spinach retains better texture and color compared to frozen; you can also use kale for added nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic; cook until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden. This forms the base of your soup, thickening it beautifully.
Gradually whisk in the half-and-half and allow it to simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure a smooth consistency.
Next, whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. This adds depth and flavor to the soup.
Stir in the salt, thyme, parsley, nutmeg (if using), shredded carrots, spinach, diced chicken, and gnocchi. Simmer until heated through, approximately 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving to suit your taste.

Pro Secrets to Success

Don’t Rush the Mirepoix: Letting the vegetables soften properly before adding the flour enhances the flavor and texture of the soup.
Thickening Tips: If the soup is too thin, continue simmering until it reaches your desired thickness. For thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and return it back to the pot.
Flavors Meld: The soup tastes even better the next day, letting the flavors meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator.
Keep Fresh Herbs on Hand: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; consider garnishing with parsley or a pinch of basil when serving.

Creative Variations

Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with mushrooms and add more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick that warms the soul.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the soup.
Pasta Alternative: Swap out gnocchi for small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo if you prefer a different texture in your soup.

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: Enjoy this soup with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing iced tea with lemon.
Sides: A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, while crusty garlic bread invites dipping enjoyment.
Desserts: Follow up with a light dessert such as lemon sorbet or a classic tiramisu to cleanse the palate.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

You can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze the cooled soup in portions. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stove, adding extra broth or half-and-half as needed to regain creaminess.

Serving Ideas

For a stunning presentation, serve this chicken gnocchi soup in a rustic bowl, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Offer crusty bread on the side, and encourage everyone to help themselves. This communal style of dining invites laughter and love around your dining table.

Kitchen Wisdom

Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality chicken and fresh produce; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Gnocchi Cooking Tip: Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions separately, then add them to the soup to maintain their firmness and avoid them becoming too soft.
Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which adds convenience without compromising flavor.
Add-Ins Galore: Feel free to get creative with your soup! Throw in leftover veggies or grains, perfect for using what you have on hand.

Storage & Reheating Tips

To reheat the soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If microwaving, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. This helps maintain texture and prevents overcooking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or half-and-half when reheating to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen gnocchi? Absolutely! Just toss them in frozen; they will cook through while the soup simmers.
How can I thicken my soup? If your soup is too thin, providing a slurry of cornstarch and water or pureeing part of the soup for a creamier texture works wonders.
Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or any dairy-free cream for a rich flavor without the dairy.
How can I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best quality, freeze within 2 months.
What kind of chicken is best? Cooked, shredded chicken breast works best, but leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey can be delicious alternatives.
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to sneak in your favorites like peas, corn, or even diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
How spicy is this soup? It’s not spicy at all unless you add red pepper flakes; it’s designed to be a warm, comforting dish.
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 360
Protein: 16g
Carbs: 33g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

A Warm Personal Note

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about sharing a delicious bowl of homemade chicken gnocchi soup with loved ones. Each spoonful carries not just flavor, but also stories and connections. As you gather to enjoy this comforting soup, remember to savor not just the meal, but the laughter and love shared around the table. That’s where memories are truly made, and flavors come alive!

From My Kitchen to Yours

I encourage you to try this homemade chicken gnocchi soup that invites warmth and comfort into your home. Make it your own by taking inspiration from your favorite ingredients or family traditions, and don’t forget to pin it for later. Share your own version and stories, creating yet another delightful layer to this beautiful recipe!