Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup .Steaming bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup with fresh ingredients.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This creamy, hearty dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re craving something warm on a chilly day or simply want a bowl of indulgence.

Making this copycat recipe at home is easier than you might think, and it allows you to enjoy all the deliciousness of your favorite restaurant dish without leaving your kitchen. Plus, it’s fully customizable—whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors, make it vegetarian, or prepare it ahead of time for busy weeknights. With simple, everyday ingredients and easy steps, this recipe brings the joy of Olive Garden right to your table. Let’s dive into crafting this irresistible bowl of goodness!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

  • Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly).
  • Gnocchi: 1 pound (store-bought or homemade).
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup diced celery
    • 1 cup diced onion
    • 1 cup shredded carrots
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Spinach: 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped.
  • Chicken Broth: 4 cups for the soup base.
  • Heavy Cream: 2 cups for that rich, creamy texture.
  • Flour: 2 tablespoons for thickening.
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon.
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 teaspoon thyme
    • 1 teaspoon parsley
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish.

Directions

  1. Sauté Vegetables:
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Base:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
    • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Cook the Chicken and Gnocchi:
    • Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot.
    • Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top.
  4. Finish with Cream and Spinach:
    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
    • Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
    • Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe makes about 6 servings.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Options: Swap the chicken for turkey, sausage, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutrition by adding zucchini, bell peppers, or peas.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour substitute.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and dairy-free butter for sautéing.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, note that the texture of the gnocchi and cream may change slightly upon reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it becomes too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing, and cook until they float to the top, which usually takes 3-5 minutes.

2. What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Rotisserie chicken is a great choice for convenience and flavor. You can also use baked, grilled, or boiled chicken. Leftover turkey works well too, especially after a holiday meal.

3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less creamy. To maintain some richness, you can use a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of butter or a splash of half-and-half.

4. Is this soup spicy?
No, this recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of heat.

5. How do I keep the soup from becoming too thick?
If the soup thickens too much as it sits, add a little extra chicken broth or water when reheating. Stir well to restore its creamy consistency.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and swap butter with a plant-based alternative. The flavor will still be rich and delicious.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd. Use a larger pot and adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything is evenly cooked. Leftovers freeze well for future meals.

Conclusion

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, tender gnocchi, and flavorful broth will transport you straight to your favorite restaurant without leaving the comfort of your home. With customizable options and straightforward instructions, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Serve it with a slice of bread, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and enjoy the magic of homemade comfort food. Bon appétit!

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Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup .Steaming bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup with fresh ingredients.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Author: Meryem
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
Print Recipe

Description

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, hearty delight that brings the flavors of the iconic restaurant straight to your kitchen. It’s loaded with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy nights or a comforting meal any time of the year, this soup is easy to make, budget-friendly, and tastes just like the real deal—if not better! Whether you’re a fan of Olive Garden or just love a good creamy soup, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly).
  • Gnocchi: 1 pound (store-bought or homemade).
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup diced celery
    • 1 cup diced onion
    • 1 cup shredded carrots
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Spinach: 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped.
  • Chicken Broth: 4 cups for the soup base.
  • Heavy Cream: 2 cups for that rich, creamy texture.
  • Flour: 2 tablespoons for thickening.
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon.
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 teaspoon thyme
    • 1 teaspoon parsley
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish.

Instructions

  • Sauté Vegetables:

    • Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

  • Prepare the Base:

    • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
    • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer.

  • Cook the Chicken and Gnocchi:

    • Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot.
    • Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top.

  • Finish with Cream and Spinach:

    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
    • Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  • Serve:

    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
    • Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Calories and Fat: The heavy cream and butter contribute to the richness of the soup but can be reduced by using lighter substitutes if needed.
  • Protein: Chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, making this soup filling and satisfying.
  • Carbohydrates: Gnocchi is the main source of carbs, so swapping it with a low-carb alternative can cater to specific dietary preferences.
  •  
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg