Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients — fresh, wholesome, and flavorful. I always choose chicken that’s fresh and preferably organic when I can, and don’t skimp on the broth; a good quality chicken broth makes all the difference in depth of flavor. For the gnocchi, store-bought works beautifully to save time but homemade can add a lovely personal touch if you’re up for it. Using fresh herbs, especially thyme, elevates the soup in a way dried herbs just can’t.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring for another minute until fragrant. This step really wakes up the herbs and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot, then gently stir in the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like, and enjoy the comforting warmth!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, recipe, cooking, food
