Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful culinary experience that captivates with every warm, creamy spoonful. This comforting soup brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a velvety broth that warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses on a special occasion, this recipe is definitely worth making. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow, guaranteeing a delicious result every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup not just for its incredible taste but also for its ease of preparation. It requires minimal ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option for families. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, this dish is highly adaptable, allowing you to swap in seasonal vegetables or alternative proteins if you like. It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together, making it a beloved favorite.

For Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter: Choose either for a rich, flavorful base.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 1 cup diced celery: Crunchy texture with a fresh flavor.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and a bright pop of color.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Punches up the aroma with its distinct flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy notes that enhance the broth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warmth and complexity.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Rich and flavorful base.
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Protein-packed and tender.
• 1 pound potato gnocchi: Soft and chewy bites that soak up the flavors.
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Nutrient-rich greens that wilt beautifully.
• 2 cups half-and-half: Creates a rich, creamy texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, optional: Adds a salty kick if desired.
• Chopped parsley or thyme, optional: For a fresh garnish.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened, filling your kitchen with a warm and savory aroma.

2. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld and develop beautifully.

3. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to form a roux. Cook this for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, resulting in a thicker broth.

4. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring this to a gentle boil and let it slightly thicken, becoming a deliciously creamy base for your soup.

5. Add shredded chicken and gnocchi to the pot. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top, signaling they’re cooked through and ready to enjoy.

6. Reduce the heat and stir in the half-and-half and spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt for a couple of minutes, enriching the soup with nutrients and vibrant color.

7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with optional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs for an added layer of flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these chef’s secrets: sauté your onions until they are deeply caramelized for an added sweetness. You can also add a splash of lemon juice before serving for a zing. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer for an additional few minutes without the lid, allowing extra moisture to evaporate. Feel free to toss in other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or freshly baked breadsticks, perfect for sopping up the rich broth. A simple side salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy soup, adding a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a robust pasta dish.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup is hearty and satisfying. While specific caloric values can vary based on ingredient choices, a typical serving can be around 350-400 calories. It’s packed with protein thanks to the chicken, while the gnocchi offers carbohydrates for energy. If you want to keep things lighter, opt for half-and-half alternatives or reduce the amount used without sacrificing creaminess.

Storing Tips & Variations For Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The gnocchi may absorb some liquid, so be sure to add a dash of chicken broth when reheating to maintain the desired consistency. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the gnocchi, as they don’t freeze well. You can add freshly cooked gnocchi once you reheat it. For a healthier twist, substitute the half-and-half with almond or coconut milk and try whole wheat gnocchi for added fiber.

Conclusion For Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a bowl of Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup to make you feel at home. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a dish that invites seconds and perhaps even thirds. Give this recipe a try today, and bring a little taste of Olive Garden into your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi! Just make sure to add them directly to the soup without thawing.

2. What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian version?
You can replace chicken with chickpeas or a meat substitute like seitan. Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. How long can I store this soup?
You can store Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup in the fridge for up to four days. For best results, reheat on the stove.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?
Traditional gnocchi and flour are not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free gnocchi and use cornstarch or almond flour as a thickener to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the soup the day before, and reheat it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 45
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting, creamy soup featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 cups half-and-half
• Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
• Chopped parsley or thyme, optional

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
3. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking. Bring to a gentle boil and let it thicken.
5. Add shredded chicken and gnocchi. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top.
6. Reduce heat and stir in the half-and-half and spinach. Allow spinach to wilt for a couple of minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and chopped herbs if desired.

Notes

For added sweetness, caramelize the onions. Consider a splash of lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 30
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 375
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg