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Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This soup features tender chunks of chicken and soft, chewy gnocchi simmered in a rich, creamy broth infused with garlic and herbs. The dish has a hearty, velvety texture with a golden hue on top and is finished with melted cheese and fresh greens for a comforting presentation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi fresh or frozen
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or kale optional for greens
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
  • to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken and set aside.
    2 cups chicken broth
  2. Add minced garlic to the same pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm garlic aroma.
    2 cups chicken broth
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for flavor. Stir in milk and heavy cream to create a silky, velvety broth.
    2 cups chicken broth
  4. Gradually add the potato gnocchi to the soup, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until they float and are tender, which indicates they are cooked through.
    2 cups chicken broth
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Add chopped greens if using, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted and flavorful.
    2 cups chicken broth
  6. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated. The soup should look creamy, with a rich golden hue from the cheese and herbs.
    2 cups chicken broth
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; add more salt, pepper, or cheese for extra flavor. Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a smoother broth, blend a portion of the soup and stir back in. Feel free to add cooked bacon or chopped vegetables for variation.