Description

Creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. It's a simple, hearty dish that delivers warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (32 ounces)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 pound refrigerated potato gnocchi (not frozen)
• 1 (5-ounce) bag baby spinach
• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half

Preparation Method

Sauté the Vegetables:In a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Chicken:Stir in the chicken broth, shredded chicken, and fresh thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Incorporate Gnocchi and Spinach:Add the potato gnocchi, baby spinach, and half-and-half. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the gnocchi is tender and the spinach is wilted. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi—they should be pillowy, not mushy.

Serve Immediately:Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. For an enhanced experience, pair it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

Storage Options:

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: To freeze, omit the half-and-half and add it when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.

Tips and Conclusion

Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra heartiness.

Dairy-Free: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or a plant-based creamer.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi or substitute with diced potatoes.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for variety.

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it's guaranteed to be a favorite. Try it today and experience the magic of this beloved dish right in your own kitchen!