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How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and carrots, cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Base
- Sprinkle the thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the sautéed vegetables. Stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Gnocchi
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cooked chicken.
- Add the gnocchi, allowing them to simmer in the soup for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Spinach
- Slowly pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, but avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Add the chopped spinach, stirring until it wilts into the soup.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool slightly.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: It tastes just like Olive Garden’s famous soup but with the satisfaction of homemade freshness.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
- Creamy and Comforting: The rich, velvety broth and tender gnocchi make every bite irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences—use turkey instead of chicken, add mushrooms, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s a time-saving option that’s flavorful and tender.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook quickly. Overcooking can make them too soft.
- Choose Fresh Spinach: It adds a burst of color and freshness to the creamy base.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the broth before adding the cream.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with:
- Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy broth.
- House Salad: Mimic Olive Garden’s iconic pairing with a crisp, zesty salad.
- Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Recreating Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is easier than you think, and the results are as delicious as dining out. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or indulging in a cozy bowl on a cold day, this recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your craving for creamy, hearty goodness.
Give it a try and bring the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant right to your kitchen!
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