Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Recipe Better Than Olive Garden!

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re in for a treat! This homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is even better than the restaurant version. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy, flavorful broth, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe and why it’s a must-try for soup lovers!

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this soup is a lifesaver on busy days.
2. Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a rich, velvety broth that’s irresistible.
3. Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables, this soup is both wholesome and satisfying.
4. Customizable: Feel free to swap or add ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
5. Better Than Olive Garden: Skip the restaurant and enjoy this homemade version that’s fresher, healthier, and just as delicious!

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Ingredients for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

• 2 tablespoons oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• ½ medium onion (finely chopped): Adds a sweet, savory base.
• 2 ribs celery (finely chopped): Provides a subtle crunch and flavor.
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks (or finely chopped carrots): Adds color and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Enhances the herbaceous flavor.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: A must for depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the chicken beautifully.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: For a hint of spice.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and protein-packed.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The base of the soup.
• ¾ cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup.
• 3 cups small gnocchi (500g): The star of the dish!
• 1 ½ cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped): Adds a pop of color and nutrients.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy, umami finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Seasonings

1. Stir in the parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add the chicken breasts.
2. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
3. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board.
2. Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch.
2. Stir the mixture into the soup along with the gnocchi.
3. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

1. Stir in the shredded chicken, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Adjust the seasonings to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

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The History and Popularity of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup has become a beloved dish in many households, thanks to its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and comforting flavors. While its exact origins are unclear, the dish is often associated with Italian-American cuisine, where gnocchi—a traditional Italian dumpling made from potatoes, flour, and eggs—is a staple. The combination of gnocchi with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth likely emerged as a way to create a filling, one-pot meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

The popularity of Chicken Gnocchi Soup skyrocketed with the rise of chain restaurants like Olive Garden, which introduced their version to a wide audience. Olive Garden’s take on the soup became a fan favorite, known for its rich, velvety broth and tender gnocchi. However, many home cooks have since sought to recreate and even improve upon the restaurant version, leading to countless variations of the recipe.

What makes this soup so appealing is its versatility. It’s a dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For example, you can swap out the chicken for turkey or even make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. The addition of spinach or other greens adds a nutritional boost, while the Parmesan cheese lends a savory depth of flavor. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a dish that brings people together, offering warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making the perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup requires a few key techniques to ensure the flavors are balanced and the texture is just right. Here are some expert tips to help you master this dish:

1. Sauté the Vegetables Properly: The foundation of any good soup is the flavor base, often referred to as a mirepoix (onions, celery, and carrots). Sautéing these vegetables until they’re slightly softened helps release their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
2. Season in Layers: Don’t wait until the end to season your soup. Adding salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and parsley at different stages of cooking ensures that every component is well-seasoned.
3. Use Fresh Gnocchi if Possible: While packaged gnocchi is convenient, fresh gnocchi has a lighter, fluffier texture that elevates the dish. If you can’t find fresh gnocchi, look for high-quality packaged options.
4. Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so add it toward the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy. It should be tender but still hold its shape.
5. Thicken the Soup Gradually: The combination of heavy cream and cornstarch creates a creamy, velvety broth. Be sure to whisk the cornstarch into the cream thoroughly to avoid lumps, and add it slowly to the soup while stirring.
6. Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cream and cornstarch. For a thinner soup, add a splash of broth or water.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured every time.

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 Health Benefits of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

While Chicken Gnocchi Soup is undeniably comforting, it also offers several health benefits, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional advantages of this delicious dish:

1. High in Protein: The chicken in this soup provides a significant amount of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, this soup is an excellent choice.
2. Packed with Vegetables: The carrots, celery, and spinach in this recipe add a variety of vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while spinach is a great source of iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
3. Rich in Fiber: The vegetables and gnocchi contribute to the soup’s fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Fiber is also important for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
4. Calcium and Vitamin D: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide calcium, which is crucial for bone health. If you use fortified dairy products, you’ll also get a dose of vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium more effectively.
5. Customizable for Dietary Needs: This soup can easily be adapted to fit different dietary preferences. For a lower-calorie version, use milk instead of heavy cream. To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free gnocchi. You can also add more vegetables or swap the chicken for plant-based protein.
6. Hydration and Comfort: The broth-based nature of this soup helps keep you hydrated, especially during colder months when you might not feel like drinking as much water. Plus, the warmth and creaminess of the soup can be incredibly soothing, making it a great option for when you’re feeling under the weather.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken Breasts: Swap with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
• Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
• Spinach: Use kale or Swiss chard instead.
• Parmesan Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

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Nutritional Information

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s the breakdown per serving (310 grams):

• Calories: 444.68
• Carbohydrates: 50.02g
• Protein: 18.69g
• Fat: 19.83g
• Saturated Fat: 8.9g
• Cholesterol: 68.53mg
• Sodium: 792.79mg
• Potassium: 455.15mg
• Fiber: 3.86g
• Sugar: 1.96g
• Vitamin A: 4811.76IU
• Vitamin C: 5.35mg
• Calcium: 119.29mg
• Iron: 5.14mg

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FAQs About Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Can I freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

While you can freeze this soup, the gnocchi may become slightly mushy upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add freshly cooked gnocchi when serving.

2. How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

4. What can I serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Pair this soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
• The creamy broth and tender gnocchi make it feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
• It’s a versatile recipe that allows for endless customization.
• It’s a healthier alternative to the restaurant version, with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi, it’s a dish that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a practical choice for any day of the week. Whether you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s version or just love a good soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with your friends and family – they’ll thank you!