Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness with our Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe! Imagine tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vegetables all swimming in a rich, velvety broth – it’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a pick-me-up any time of the year. This soup is a twist on the popular Olive Garden dish, but with a homemade spin that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, browned chicken, gnocchi, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the gnocchi are cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Pro Tips for Success

* To make this recipe even more like Olive Garden, add some cooked Italian sausage or bacon to the pot with the chicken for added flavor.
* If using store-bought gnocchi, be sure to cook them according to package instructions and then add them to the soup. Homemade gnocchi can be cooked directly in the pot with the vegetables and broth.
* To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream or half-and-half with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or soy creamer.
* Leftover soup makes great lunches or dinners for up to 3-4 days. Simply refrigerate or freeze until ready to reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can! Just thaw the frozen gnocchi according to package instructions and then add them to the pot with the vegetables and broth.

Q: How do I make homemade gnocchi from scratch?
A: Making homemade gnocchi is a bit more involved, but it’s worth the extra effort. Simply boil 2-3 large potatoes until tender, then mash and mix with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 egg, and a pinch of salt. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into small pieces. Cook in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.

Q: Can I add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, and other leafy greens or summer squash work beautifully in this soup. Just add them towards the end of cooking time so they retain their texture and flavor.

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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.