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How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. This step brings out the natural flavors and creates the base for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings
To the pot, add the chicken broth, half-and-half, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using). Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Gnocchi
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors are blended, add the cooked chicken and gnocchi to the pot. Stir to combine, and continue to cook the soup for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi rises to the surface and becomes tender.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the soup, stirring it in until wilted. If you like a more pronounced spinach flavor, feel free to add extra spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove the soup from heat.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time and add extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken. Its rich flavor makes the soup even more delicious and convenient.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cook quickly, so be sure to add them toward the end of the cooking process. Overcooking them can result in mushy gnocchi, which you want to avoid.
- Make it Creamier: For an even richer soup, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. It will give the soup a silkier texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a bit of flour to the butter and vegetables in the beginning to create a roux, which will help thicken the broth.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like peas or zucchini to suit your preferences.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic soup from the famous Italian restaurant. It’s the perfect dish to serve on a chilly evening when you need something cozy and filling. With its creamy texture, flavorful broth, and comforting gnocchi, this soup is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
It’s also an easy recipe to make in advance—simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little more broth if needed.
So, next time you’re craving that iconic Olive Garden soup, skip the restaurant line and whip up this homemade version. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!
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