Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever tasted Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you know it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. The creamy broth, pillowy gnocchi, and tender chicken make it a favorite among many. While dining out is always an option, the convenience and cost-effectiveness of making this soup at home have made it a popular choice for families. With this easy-to-follow copycat recipe, you can recreate the restaurant experience in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This homemade version of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup offers several advantages over the restaurant version. First, you have full control over the quality of ingredients, ensuring that everything from the broth to the gnocchi is fresh and flavorful. Second, you can customize the soup to your preferences—whether that means adjusting the thickness, adding extra vegetables, or using different types of protein. Third, it’s a budget-friendly alternative that allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without the expense of dining out.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The foundation of this soup lies in its ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor and texture:

• Butter and Olive Oil: These form the base of the roux, which thickens the soup and adds a rich, savory depth.
• Onion, Celery, and Garlic: These aromatics provide a sweet, earthy base that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour: When combined with butter, it creates the roux that gives the soup its signature creaminess.
• Half-and-Half: Adds a luxurious, velvety texture that sets this soup apart from other chicken soups.
• Chicken Broth: Provides a savory, umami-rich base that complements the other ingredients.
• Dried Thyme and Parsley: These herbs add a classic Italian touch, enhancing the soup’s aroma and flavor.
• Shredded Carrots and Spinach: Add color, nutrition, and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the broth.
• Cooked Chicken Breast: Offers a tender, juicy protein source that pairs perfectly with the gnocchi.
• Potato Gnocchi: The star of the show, these soft, pillowy dumplings absorb the flavors of the soup while providing a satisfying texture.

How to Make the Soup

Making this soup is straightforward, even for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter and add olive oil. Sauté diced onion, celery, and minced garlic until they become tender.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle flour into the pot and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in half-and-half and chicken broth, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
4. Season and Simmer: Add dried thyme, shredded carrots, chopped spinach, cooked chicken, and gnocchi. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is cooked through.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

For those who prefer a slower cooking method, the soup can also be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the chicken, broth, and other ingredients (excluding the gnocchi and spinach). Cook on low for 3–4 hours, then add the gnocchi and spinach in the last hour.

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Use Mini Gnocchi: Smaller gnocchi pieces are ideal for soup, as they cook more evenly and don’t overwhelm the dish.
• Stir Continuously: Avoid letting the sauce get too hot, as this can cause it to separate. Constant stirring helps maintain a smooth texture.
• Fresh Spinach is Best: Frozen spinach tends to become mushy, so opt for fresh leaves for the best results.
• Dice Vegetables Evenly: Uniformly sized vegetables cook more evenly, ensuring a balanced texture throughout the soup.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients:

• Gnocchi Alternatives: If you can’t find potato gnocchi, try using small pasta shapes like orzo or shells.
• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with Italian sausage for a heartier option. Brown the sausage before adding it to the soup.
• Extra Vegetables: Add peas, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
• Thicker Soup: Boost the creaminess by adding extra half-and-half or a splash of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a few classic sides to create a complete meal:

• Olive Garden Breadsticks: Crusty, garlic-dusted breadsticks are a must-have.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Another great side that adds a savory note.
• Cheese Topping: Grate some Parmesan or Romano cheese on top for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

While this soup doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy and gnocchi, it reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a nostalgic treat that brings people together. By making it at home, you not only save money but also gain the satisfaction of recreating a beloved dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or simply craving a taste of the restaurant, this copycat recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this soup has become a favorite in households across the United States.