Main Course

By Elias Carter

The Cozy Revival: Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with a Homemade Twist

There’s something mesmerizing about the way the garlic broth fills the kitchen with that warm, savory aroma. As you stir the soup, the gnocchi soften gently, almost melting into the creamy base, reminding me of lazy Sunday afternoons after school. This dish feels like a warm blanket, but with a little bit of an adventure—fresh herbs, a dash of spice, and tender chicken taking center stage.

What sets this recipe apart is its ability to transport you in just one spoonful. The fluffy gnocchi and the silky broth blend into a comforting symphony, yet it’s remarkably quick to pull together. Making it from scratch reaffirmed my belief that the magic is in the stirred moments, not just the ingredients.

WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?

  • It’s a perfect way to reclaim slow Sundays in a busy week.
  • The smell of garlic and herbs frying fills the whole house—pure nostalgia.
  • The way the gnocchi pop softly as you spoon them—small moments of joy.
  • It’s my secret weapon for warmth and comfort when seasons change.

Sharing this soup now feels right—seasonal comfort foods are a gentle reminder of home, and everyone needs that little extra cozy boost these days. Plus, it’s a dish that’s forgiving enough for weekend cooking marathons or quick weeknight dinners.

In the end, it’s about the simple pleasure of gathering around a steaming bowl, connecting over something that feels just a little more special. No matter how chaotic outside, this soup offers a peaceful pause inside the kitchen.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup features tender gnocchi simmered in a fragrant garlic and herb broth, enriched with tender pieces of chicken and a creamy base. The dish has a velvety texture with soft gnocchi and a savory, aromatic broth, creating a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 cup cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 1 bag fresh gnocchi about 16 oz
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a touch of heat
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm, savory aroma.
  2. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring for a minute to coat it in the garlic and release some of its juices.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and milk (or heavy cream), then stir in dried thyme and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles to appear around the edges.
  4. Once bubbling, add the fresh gnocchi into the broth. Gently stir to prevent sticking, and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface and become soft.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, then whisk in additional salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasonings as needed. Continue to simmer until the broth thickens slightly and the flavors meld, about 5 minutes.
  6. Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. The gnocchi should be tender and the broth creamy and flavorful, ready for cozy enjoyment.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. You can also substitute shredded turkey or omit the chicken for a vegetarian version using sautéed mushrooms.

Cooking this soup brought back childhood memories of sneaking spoonfuls from my grandmother’s bubbling pot. Its charm lies in the small imperfections—every gnocchi’s irregular shape, the slightly uneven temperature. It’s imperfectly perfect, just like us.

Now more than ever, food is about creating moments that matter. Filling bowls with warm, hearty soup honors that tradition. It’s a simple reminder that comfort can be made at home—fast, satisfying, and deeply personal.

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