Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

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Ingredients:

  • 4 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups carrots, grated
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • Olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 large grilled chicken breast, chunked
  • 4-5 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups half and half
  • 1 package potato gnocchi
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh spinach (a few handfuls)
  • Cornstarch or flour (for thickening)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Chop the celery and onion.
    • Grate the carrots.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped celery, onion, grated carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.

  1. Add Chicken and Broth:
    • Add the chunked grilled chicken breast to the pot.
    • Pour in 4-5 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  2. Incorporate Cream and Gnocchi:
    • Stir in 2 cups of half and half and the potato gnocchi.
    • Add thyme, dried parsley, garlic powder, and pepper. Bring back to a boil.
  3. Simmer the Soup:
    • Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

  1. Thicken the Soup:
    • In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch or flour with hot water to create a thick paste.
    • Add the paste to the soup, stirring well to combine.
  2. Finish with Spinach:
    • Add a few handfuls of fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
  3. Serve:
    • Once everything is combined and heated through, your soup is ready to serve! Enjoy!

Notes:

  • Customize: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

  • Yes! Frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.

2. What if I don’t have half and half?

  • You can substitute half and half with a mix of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream or use just whole milk for a lighter version.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

  • Yes! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add more vegetables for flavor and texture.

4. How do I store leftovers?

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

  • It’s best not to freeze the soup due to the cream and gnocchi, which can change texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the broth and vegetables separately.

6. What other vegetables can I add?

  • You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

7. How can I make it spicier?

  • Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a kick.

8. What can I use instead of chicken?

  • You can use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

9. How can I thicken the soup without cornstarch or flour?

  • You can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture, or use mashed potatoes.

10. Is this soup kid-friendly?

  • Yes! The creamy texture and flavors are usually a hit with kids. You can adjust seasonings to suit their taste.

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