Olive Garden's creamy Chicken and Gnocchi soup is a beloved comfort food. But recreating that restaurant-quality taste at home doesn't require a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen. This recipe breaks down how to make a delicious, authentic-tasting version right in your own kitchen. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to achieving that signature creamy texture. Get ready to savor the flavors of Italy without leaving your house!
What Makes Olive Garden's Chicken and Gnocchi Soup So Popular?
The magic lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy broth, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and subtle hints of herbs create a truly comforting and satisfying experience. People love it for its rich taste, ease of preparation (at least at the restaurant!), and the overall feeling of a comforting, warm meal.
What Ingredients Do I Need for This Recipe?
This recipe focuses on creating a taste as close as possible to the Olive Garden original using readily available ingredients. You'll need:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Gnocchi: 1 (1 lb) package potato gnocchi (fresh or frozen work well)
- Broth: 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Seasoning: 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cheese (Optional): 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Olive Garden-Style Chicken and Gnocchi Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Add the Gnocchi: Gently stir in the gnocchi. If using fresh gnocchi, cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. If using frozen gnocchi, follow the package directions for cooking time; generally, they'll take a bit longer.
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Stir in the Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through gently; do not boil.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if desired).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of gnocchi?
Yes! While potato gnocchi is traditional and works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other varieties like spinach or ricotta gnocchi. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of gnocchi you use.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is even better the next day! Prepare it as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. Avoid boiling after adding the cream, as it may curdle.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir constantly until the soup thickens. Alternatively, you could add a bit more heavy cream.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
Feel free to experiment! Consider adding a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor, or some fresh herbs like basil or oregano. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors nicely.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not naturally gluten-free due to the use of regular gnocchi. However, you can find gluten-free gnocchi at most grocery stores to make it a gluten-free option.
This recipe offers a fantastic approximation of Olive Garden's famous Chicken and Gnocchi soup, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal anytime. Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference! Enjoy!
