Bring the beloved flavors of Olive Garden into your kitchen with this Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe. Rich and creamy, it’s packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and shredded carrots. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant Quality: Enjoy the flavors of Olive Garden without leaving home.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Family Favorite: A crowd-pleasing dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients for Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
Vegetables and Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Create the Roux
- Melt the butter in the same pot, stirring constantly.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 2 minutes to create a roux. This helps thicken the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Simmer
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add Cream and Vegetables
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, carrots, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Gnocchi
- Add the gnocchi to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes.
- The gnocchi will float to the top when cooked.
6. Add the Spinach and Serve
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with a side of breadsticks or a green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gnocchi to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Prep Ahead: Shred the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time for quicker cooking.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the broth slightly.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes! Homemade gnocchi works beautifully and adds a personal touch to the dish.
What substitutes work for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used for a lighter version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s not recommended as the cream and gnocchi may separate or become mushy when thawed.
What other vegetables can I add?
Mushrooms, celery, or peas are excellent additions to this soup.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort in Every Spoonful
This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of the original, right in your own kitchen. Perfectly seasoned with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Whip up a pot today and enjoy the comforting flavors of Olive Garden at home! 🍲