Name: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Made Easy!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste

Introduction to Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that everyone will love. That’s why I’m excited to share my version of the Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. This creamy, comforting dish is not only a quick solution for hectic weeknights, but it also brings a taste of restaurant magic right to your kitchen. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they savor each spoonful! Trust me, this soup is a delightful way to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. The creamy texture and rich flavors will make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you! It’s the perfect dish to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a lovely richness to the soup.
Onion: Diced onion brings a sweet and savory flavor that forms the foundation of your soup.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
Carrots: Diced carrots provide a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
Celery: Diced celery contributes a refreshing crunch and depth of flavor.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs infuses the soup with classic Italian flavors.
Chicken broth: A flavorful base that brings everything together; opt for low-sodium if you prefer.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and indulgent; you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings are the star of the show, adding a delightful texture.
Fresh spinach: A handful of spinach adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.

Feel free to get creative! You can add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version of the recipe.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a lovely base for your soup. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. It’s like a warm hug for your ingredients!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy Italian bistro!

Step 3: Add Italian Seasoning

Stir in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and let it cook for another minute. This step is crucial as it infuses the soup with those classic Italian flavors. It’s like sprinkling a little magic into your pot!

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. The broth is the heart of this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, providing depth and richness. Once it’s bubbling, you know you’re on the right track!

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. These little dumplings will puff up and become tender, adding a delightful texture to your soup.

Step 6: Add Cream, Chicken, and Spinach

Reduce the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, and 2 cups of fresh spinach. The cream will make your soup luxuriously creamy, while the chicken and spinach add heartiness and nutrition.

Step 7: Season and Simmer

Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through. This is the moment when all the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of taste!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick protein boost without the hassle.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds flavor that makes a difference.
Adjust the thickness by adding more or less cream based on your preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for easy reheating.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for making the soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
Measuring cups: Handy for measuring broth and cream accurately.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping your veggies with ease.

Variations of Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans for a hearty, plant-based option.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that warms you up!
Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy broth.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Low-Carb Option: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Wine: A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.

FAQs about Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup tastes even better the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I freeze the soup? While you can freeze it, the gnocchi may become mushy when thawed. If you plan to freeze, consider adding the gnocchi fresh when you reheat the soup.

What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you want a lighter version, half-and-half works well. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, but it will change the flavor slightly.

How can I make this soup spicier? For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. It’s a great way to add some heat!

What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, zucchini, or even peas can be great additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

Final Thoughts

Making this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy and warmth in your home. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl, perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. I love how this recipe brings my family together, sparking laughter and conversation over a delicious meal. Plus, it’s so easy to customize, making it a go-to for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished part of your family’s culinary adventures!