If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re going to love this homemade version! This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, this soup is a restaurant-quality dish you can make right at home. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Comforting: A rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Restaurant-Quality: Tastes just like the Olive Garden favorite!
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a starter for a larger meal.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Unsalted Butter & Olive Oil: A combination that creates a smooth and rich base for sautéing the veggies and building flavor.
- Onion, Garlic, Carrot, Celery: A flavorful mix of aromatics and veggies that create the backbone of the soup’s flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the broth and give the soup that creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth: The savory foundation of the soup, bringing all the flavors together.
- Cooked Chicken: Tender, shredded or diced chicken adds protein and heartiness to the soup.
- Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: These classic seasonings infuse the soup with aromatic and savory flavors.
- Heavy Cream (or Half-and-Half): Adds a rich, creamy finish to the soup, making it smooth and luxurious.
- Potato Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings are the perfect addition to give the soup its signature texture and make it extra filling.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a mild flavor that complements the creamy broth.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a great way to add a salty, nutty finish to the soup.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Cook just until tender to avoid mushy gnocchi.
- Adjust the Thickness: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Add extra cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour blend.
Pairing Suggestions
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup and reheat gently before serving.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less rich and creamy.
