Imagine the cozy warmth of a hearty soup simmering on a chilly evening. This creamy chicken gnocchi soup olive garden copycat fills your kitchen with rich, savory aromas that pull you right in. It’s all the comfort of your favorite Italian spot, but made right at home!
This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach for a delightfully creamy bowl of goodness. It’s like your grandma’s version but comes together in just one pot. Plus, you might have all the ingredients in your pantry! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering.
I started making this soup back in 2018, inspired by my daughter’s favorite restaurant. The first time I served it, she gleefully declared it “the best soup ever!” I learned to sauté the chicken until golden for the deepest flavor. After years of testing, trust methis cozy dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Joe Rooney
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Copycat Recipe for Cozy Days
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup olive garden copycat is a delicious and comforting homemade creamy gnocchi soup that perfectly mimics the beloved Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup copycat. Bursting with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and pillowy gnocchi, this cozy olive garden soup dupe is an easy chicken gnocchi soup recipe that will warm you on chilly days and become a family favorite.
1 14 ounce can chicken broth for a thinner soup use 2 cans
1 Tablespoon fresh thyme
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup fresh spinach leaves chopped
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast I used rotisserie
1 16 ounce package potato gnocchi on the pasta isle
salt and pepper to taste
Method
Melt the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic and cook until they soften and become fragrant.
Stir in the flour and continue cooking for about one minute to make a roux.
Gradually pour in the half-and-half and chicken broth while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Mix in the fresh thyme, shredded carrots, chopped spinach, cooked chicken, and potato gnocchi.
Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for around 5 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the soup has thickened.
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste, then serve the soup hot.
Notes
If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add an extra can of chicken broth. Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor. This soup is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting Flavor: This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a cozy hug in a bowl, offering all the comforting flavors you crave.
Quick and Easy: With just one pot and about 25 minutes of your time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.
Family Favorite: This soup recipe has been a hit with families everywhere, including mineperfect for holidays or a weeknight dinner!
Flexibility: Easily adjust the thickness and ingredients to match your family’s palatego lighter or creamier, whichever suits you best!
Key Ingredients and Tools
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is made with pantry staples you might already have on hand. Let’s break down the essentials:
Butter and Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding flavor.
Vegetables: Diced onion, celery, and minced garlic come together for a flavorful base.
Flour: Used to create a roux that helps thicken our soup.
Half-and-Half and Chicken Broth: These liquid ingredients create that rich, creamy texture.
Thyme, Carrots, Spinach, and Chicken: Add layers of flavor and freshnessperfectly balanced!
Potato Gnocchi: The star of the show! Pillowy and delightful, it makes this soup comforting and filling.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large pot, combine 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté 1 cup of diced onion, ½ cup of diced celery, and 2 minced garlic cloves until tender.
Add ¼ cup of flour to create a roux and cook for another minute, stirring well.
Slowly pour in 2 cups of half-and-half and 1 can of chicken broth. Stir until the mixture starts to thickenthis step is key for that creamy goodness!
Add in 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, 1 cup of shredded carrots, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, and 1 cup of diced cooked chicken. Gently mix everything together.
Finally, stir in the 16 ounces of potato gnocchi and let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
Troubleshooting and Tweaks
If you’re looking to adapt this easy chicken gnocchi soup or run into any issues, here are some helpful tips:
Too Thick? If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add another can of chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative, like cornstarch mixed with a bit of water, to thicken your soup.
Serving and Storage Tips
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup can be enjoyed right away or stored for later. Here’s how:
Serving: Serve hot, garnished with some fresh parsley or additional spinach for a pop of color!
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the gnocchi.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the gnocchi may change texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
FAQs for Your Cooking Journey
FAQ
Answer
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Just add it to the pot with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even leave it out for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve, but keep an eye on the gnocchi!
Expert Says
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also a complete meal packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken and vegetables provides protein and fiber, while gnocchi adds a satisfying texture. Using a high-quality broth enhances the flavor profile and ensures the soup is rich and creamy without excess calories.
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The Journey to My Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)
Perfecting my creamy chicken gnocchi soup was a delicious adventure that took a few tries. I’ll never forget the first attempt where I added way too much cream, and the taste was more dessert than dinner. After many experiments, I’ve finally crafted a bowl that’s rich and comforting, just like those family dinners from my childhood.
This recipe requires chicken, gnocchi, spinach, carrots, celery, garlic, onion, and a creamy broth base made from chicken broth and cream. Optional seasonings like thyme and pepper enhance the flavors, making it a comforting dish.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just let it cool, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy. The flavors will actually deepen overnight.
Is this soup gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free gnocchi, this soup can easily be made gluten-free. Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. This makes it a great option for gluten-sensitive friends.
How long will this soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze gnocchi soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the gnocchi. The gnocchi can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Freeze the soup base and add fresh gnocchi when you reheat.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup olive garden copycat is pure comfort, ready in just 25 minutes to become your new go-to for busy nights. You’ll adore the rich aroma and creamy texture that just begs for a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale if you’re in the mood for a different green, or toss in some extra herbs for a flavor boost! Remember, a trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to gently reheat leftovers on the stove for that fresh-out-of-the-pot taste.
Have you made a soup like this before? I’d love to hear your stories or see your versions! Don’t forget to save this cozy recipe and share it with friendsafter all, good food is meant for sharing, and nothing brings family together quite like a warm bowl of soup.
