Here’s a copycat recipe for Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced carrot
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.
- Pour in the half-and-half and add the cooked gnocchi. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To make the best Olive Garden-style Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider the following tips:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Use good-quality chicken, fresh vegetables, and high-grade Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Homemade Chicken Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor. If using store-bought, go for a low-sodium option to better control the salt content.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning carefully. Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup typically has a blend of thyme and parsley. Taste the soup as you go and add salt and pepper gradually, keeping in mind that the Parmesan cheese will also contribute saltiness.
- Shredded Chicken: Use pre-cooked and shredded chicken for a time-saving option. Rotisserie chicken works well, or you can cook and shred chicken breasts in advance.
- Fresh Spinach: Add fresh spinach towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and texture. It only needs a few minutes to wilt.
- Gnocchi Preparation: Cook the gnocchi separately according to the package instructions, and add them to the soup just before serving. This helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming mushy in the broth.
- Creamy Base: Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and heavy cream for a creamy texture. Be cautious not to let it boil after adding the dairy to prevent curdling.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s consistency.
- Simmering Time: Allow the soup to simmer for an adequate amount of time after adding the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld. However, be careful not to overcook the soup, especially the gnocchi, as they can become too soft.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley for a finishing touch.
Remember that the key to a delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup is finding the right balance of flavors and textures. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, and don’t forget to enjoy the process of creating this comforting dish
Q: Can I make Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time? A: While you can prepare the components in advance, it’s best to cook and combine them just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the gnocchi and other ingredients. The soup can be reheated gently on the stove.
Q: Can I freeze Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup? A: Freezing may affect the texture of the gnocchi and the creamy base. It’s generally not recommended, as the soup can become somewhat grainy upon thawing. If you still choose to freeze it, do so without the gnocchi, and add them fresh when reheating.
Q: What can I substitute for half-and-half in the soup? A: You can use a combination of milk and heavy cream as a substitute for half-and-half. Adjust the ratio based on your preference for creaminess.
Q: How do I prevent the soup from curdling when adding half-and-half? A: To prevent curdling, gradually add the half-and-half or dairy, and ensure the soup is at a low simmer, not boiling, when incorporating it. Stir continuously while adding the dairy to help it integrate smoothly.
Q: Can I use store-bought gnocchi for convenience? A: Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi to save time. Follow the package instructions for cooking, and add them to the soup towards the end, just before serving.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or even plant-based protein alternatives if desired.
Q: How do I store leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I use a slow cooker for this soup? A: While a slow cooker can be used, it’s important to adjust the cooking times and add ingredients like gnocchi and spinach towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Q: What can I serve with Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup? A: The soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread, a simple salad, or a light appetizer for a complete dining experience.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and you can always adjust the recipe based on your preferences and dietary requirements
