Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an even better replica of the restaurant version with a rich, creamy base, soft pillowy gnocchi potato dumplings, and fresh spinach.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup celery
  • 1 cup carrots

    shredded or chopped

  • 1 medium sweet onion

    finely chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves

    minced

  • ¼ cup flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound chicken breast

    cooked and chopped

  • 1 package potato gnocchi)

    (16 ounces

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 cups spinach
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)

    (see notes for dried or ground thyme

  • Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter.

  2. 2

    Add celery, carrots, onion, and garlic, and saute until tender, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    When vegetables are tender, stir in flour. Allow flour to heat through, about 2 minutes.

  4. 4

    Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.

  5. 5

    Add chicken and bring mixture to a boil.

  6. 6

    Add gnocchi, and cook until done, about 5 minutes (check package instructions for precise time).

  7. 7

    Lower heat to medium-low. Add cream, and stir to combine. Heat to steaming, but not boiling.

  8. 8

    Stir in spinach, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow spinach to wilt and soup to totally cook through.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ratings & Reviews

Be the First to Rate

Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!

About this Recipe

Craving that comforting, creamy soup from Olive Garden but want to make it even better at home? This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe brings all the warmth and flavor right to your kitchen, proving that homemade truly is superior. You'll love recreating this restaurant favorite.

What makes this recipe stand out is its commitment to a rich, creamy base paired with tender, pillowy potato gnocchi. Unlike some versions that can be watery or bland, this copycat ensures a deeply satisfying broth that perfectly cradles the soft dumplings and fresh spinach. It's designed to deliver that beloved hearty flavor with every spoonful.

When you dive into this soup, expect a symphony of textures and flavors. Each bite offers the sweet tenderness of finely chopped carrots, celery, and sweet onion, softened in butter and garlic, melding into a luxurious, thick broth. The delicate gnocchi provides a delightful chew, while fresh spinach adds a touch of vibrant green and a subtle earthy note. It's a truly comforting and filling experience, perfect for a cozy evening.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. While cooked chicken breast provides satisfying protein, you can easily adapt it. Consider using shredded rotisserie chicken for a time-saver, or skip the chicken entirely for a hearty vegetarian gnocchi soup, perhaps adding white beans for extra substance. If you're out of fresh spinach, frozen spinach can work—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water. The fresh thyme adds a lovely aromatic touch, but the recipe also notes that dried or ground thyme can be used as alternatives if needed.

Serve this wonderful soup as a complete meal on its own, perhaps with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It's an ideal choice for a comforting family dinner or when you want to impress guests with a homemade twist on a classic.

Frequently Asked Questions