Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi: 5 Secrets to Perfect Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 medium Onion; 2 cloves Garlic; 2 medium Carrots; 2 stalks Celery; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; to taste Salt and Black Pepper; 4 cups Chicken Broth; 2 cups Cooked Chicken; 1 package Gnocchi; 3 cups Fresh Spinach; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

Introduction

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly evening. This creamy soup combines tender chicken, flavorful gnocchi, and fresh spinach, creating a comforting embrace that is reminiscent of cozy nights spent with loved ones. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this popular dish from the Olive Garden menu, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the recipe that has everyone raving about Olive Garden’s best-selling chicken gnocchi.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi recipe is not only delicious, but it comes with numerous benefits. First, it’s a quick meal that takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the creamy texture will make it a family favorite, and third, it’s loaded with protein and vegetables, making a balanced meal. Furthermore, you can customize it with chicken and gnocchi variations at Olive Garden or even make healthy swaps to fit your dietary needs. Plus, this Italian comfort food is naturally gluten-free, which is ideal for many diets.

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Onion
2 cloves Garlic
2 medium Carrots
2 stalks Celery
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
to taste Salt and Black Pepper
4 cups Chicken Broth
2 cups Cooked Chicken
1 package Gnocchi
3 cups Fresh Spinach
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until fragrant and tender.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its rich aroma to fill the kitchen.
Step 3: Sprinkle in the dried thyme and basil, mixing well to coat the veggies. Next, pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, then add the shredded cooked chicken and gnocchi. Stir gently and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add the fresh spinach and heavy cream, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cream is fully incorporated.
Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi: 5 Secrets to Perfect Comfort - Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

Keep these in mind:

Substitute vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Shallots or leeks can also be used instead of onion.
Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic.
Parsnips can provide a different taste in place of carrots.
Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
Rotisserie chicken saves time.
Kale can be swapped for spinach for a heartier dish.
Half-and-half can lighten the dish instead of heavy cream.

Best Ways to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

There are many ways to enjoy this chicken gnocchi soup Olive Garden style. Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping, or serve it alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. You might also consider garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs to enhance the flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to impress your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

To store leftover Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup ingredients, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency, as it may thicken when stored.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

What’s the secret to perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi?

The secret lies in using quality chicken and fresh ingredients, along with the right balance of cream and broth. This ensures a rich, flavorful soup that mimics the beloved dish from Olive Garden.

Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth to keep it creamy. This makes it perfect for meal prep or serving guests.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcook the gnocchi and add the spinach just before serving. This keeps the soup fresh and vibrant, just like the original dish.

Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own. You can try adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor or substituting chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, consider using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken altogether. Enjoy crafting your own homemade chicken gnocchi like Olive Garden and impress your family!

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi: 5 Secrets to Perfect Comfort - Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi - additional detail

For more tips on making delicious soups, check out this guide. If you’re interested in other Italian recipes, visit this page for more inspiration. Don’t forget to explore this article for variations on classic dishes.