Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ah, Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just the name conjures up images of creamy, comforting goodness, doesn’t it? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, but in a bowl.

That first spoonful? Heaven. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a broth so rich, it’ll make you want to lick the bowl clean. We’re about to whip up a version that rivals the original, but without the need to leave your cozy kitchen.

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary adventure. Forget those fancy restaurants; we’re bringing the Italian-American dream straight to your table.

• Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when comfort food is a must.
• Features a creamy, savory broth loaded with tender chicken and delightfully chewy gnocchi.
• The vibrant colors and textures make this soup as visually appealing as it is delicious.
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs for a truly personal touch.

Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and a lean protein source.

Gnocchi Opt for shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi; both work well, but ensure they’re not overly sticky.

Carrots Provide sweetness and a vibrant color; dice them finely for even cooking.

Celery Adds a subtle, savory depth to the soup’s flavor profile; chop it into small pieces.

Onion Forms the aromatic base of the soup; yellow or white onions work best.

Garlic Essential for that classic Italian flavor; use fresh garlic for the most potent taste.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup.

Heavy Cream Contributes to the soup’s creamy texture; can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Spinach Adds nutrients and a pop of green; fresh spinach is preferred, but frozen can be used in a pinch.

Olive Oil Used for sautéing the vegetables; extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.

Dried Thyme Provides a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Salt and Pepper Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the soup.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer. Add the chicken breasts. Poach the chicken until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.

Step 3: Simmer and Season

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Cream It Up

Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir in the heavy cream. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream, or it may curdle.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your *copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup*, sear the chicken first to lock in those delicious juices. While the chicken rests, get your gnocchi cooking. This ensures everything is timed perfectly for that creamy, comforting bowl of goodness.

Add Your Touch

Want to kick things up a notch? Try swapping spinach for kale or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish. Your soup, your rules!

Storing & Reheating

This *copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup* is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Here are a few tips to take your soup game to the next level:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; sear in batches to get a nice, golden-brown crust for maximum flavor.
• Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi! They’re done when they float to the surface; overcooked gnocchi can become gummy.
• Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. A little extra salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning can make a big difference!

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I remember the first time I made this soup; my family devoured it in minutes. My son even declared it better than Olive Garden’s, which is high praise coming from him!

Conclusion for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. This soup is a comforting, customizable dish. The recipe avoids chicken, agar-agar, and alcohol, making it accessible to everyone. With easy storage and reheating instructions, you can enjoy this delicious soup for days. The possibility to make it vegetarian or vegan makes it versatile. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and experience the joy of homemade comfort food!

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FAQs

What makes this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup so comforting?

Picture this: a chilly evening, a warm bowl, and a flavor explosion that hugs you from the inside out. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a feeling! The creaminess comes from a clever blend of milk and a touch of flour, creating a luxurious texture without being heavy. Tender, bite-sized gnocchi dance with shredded chicken and vibrant veggies in a savory broth, making every spoonful a delightful adventure. It is the perfect antidote to a stressful day, leaving you feeling satisfied, relaxed, and ready to face the world – or at least the next episode on your favorite show.

Can I customize my Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Think of this recipe as a friendly suggestion, not a strict set of rules. Want more veggies? Toss in some spinach, kale, or even some chopped zucchini. Prefer a richer flavor? Use chicken broth instead of water for a deeper savory note. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. And for those who love a little extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up. The beauty of soup is its versatility – make it your own and have fun experimenting with different flavors and textures!

How do I store and reheat the Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Storing this liquid gold is a breeze. Once the soup has cooled completely, pour it into an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It’ll happily hang out there for up to three days, ready for its next performance. Reheating is equally simple. You can gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Or, if you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too! Just be sure to microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent any hot spots or explosions. This soup is just as delicious, if not more so, the next day!

Is it possible to make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian or vegan?

While this recipe features chicken, transforming it into a vegetarian or vegan delight is totally doable! Simply skip the chicken and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. For extra protein, consider adding white beans or chickpeas. To achieve a vegan version, use plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) and ensure your gnocchi are egg-free (many store-bought varieties are!). You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. With a few simple tweaks, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of this gnocchi goodness!