Creamy Dreamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden Copycat

Recipe Introduction: Your Gateway to Gnocchi Nirvana

Ever get that craving? You know, the one that screams, " Olive Garden chicken and gnocchi now !"? Honestly, sometimes I do.

That creamy, comforting goodness is just unbeatable. This copycat recipe gives you that flavor, but without having to put on trousers and go out.

It's lush, it's creamy, and it's packed with flavor.

From Italy With Love (and a Little Bit of Cream)

Gnocchi is a type of Italian dumpling. It's a family favorite! The recipe is easy enough for a novice cook.

Prep takes about 20 minutes, and the total time is under an hour. This recipe makes around 6-8 portions, perfect for a winter dinner for kids or a cozy night in.

Soup's On! Why This Recipe Rocks

This creamy chicken soup is a hug in a bowl. It's packed with protein, thanks to the chicken. Plus, it's a brilliant way to sneak some veggies into the kids' diet.

This isn't just another chicken gnocchi soup recipe ; it's the best chicken gnocchi soup .

Gathering Your Bits and Bobs

Ready to dive in? First, let's get our ingredients sorted. You'll need chicken breasts, olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, red pepper flakes (if you fancy a bit of a kick), potato gnocchi, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and some fresh parsley.

See the ingredient list for specific measurements.

This easy comfort soup recipe is about to become your new best friend, I promise! Time to make your own homemade chicken gnocchi soup .

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Creamy Dreamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Right then, let's get down to brass tacks. To make this Olive Garden chicken and gnocchi soup copycat, you'll need a few bits and bobs.

Nothing too fancy, mind you. This isn't MasterChef, it's about proper easy comfort soup recipes ! It is definitely a winter dinner for kids.

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you'll need. I’ve included both US and metric 'cause I'm thoughtful like that.

• Chicken: About 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Good quality chicken is key here! The better the chicken, the better the flavour. I normally go for free range if I can.
• Olive Oil: You'll need some for the chicken about 1 tbsp (15ml) and a bit more for the soup.
• Italian Seasoning: The secret sauce to this chicken gnocchi soup recipe , 1 tsp (5ml) for the chicken and 1 tsp (5ml) for the soup.
• Salt & Pepper: A good pinch of both for the chicken. Season to taste for the soup.
• Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup , 150g ), 2 carrots (about 1 cup , 150g ), and 2 celery stalks (again, about 1 cup , 150g ). Chop it all up nice and small.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. You can never have too much garlic, honestly.
• Chicken Broth: You will need 6 cups (1.4L) . Low-sodium is best, so you can control the salt level.
• Dried Thyme: ½ tsp (2.5ml) . This adds a lovely earthy flavour.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch, ¼ tsp (1.25ml) , if you like a bit of a kick. Totally optional though.
• Potato Gnocchi: A 17.6 oz (500g) package. Fresh is best, but the dried stuff works too. Be careful with the gnocchi soup variations , and cook them aldente.
• Heavy Cream: The magic ingredient! 1 cup (240ml) . This makes the soup super creamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50g) , grated. And extra for serving, 'cause why not?
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp (30ml) , chopped. For a pop of freshness.

Seasoning Notes: It's All About the Flavour

For me, the essential spice combinations here are the Italian seasoning and thyme. They just scream Olive Garden gnocchi ! If you don't have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and marjoram.

A pinch of celery salt can also be used if you desire a flavor enhancer. It's a quick substitution that works like a charm.

I love adding a bay leaf to the broth while simmering. Just remember to take it out before serving!

Equipment Needed

You don't need anything fancy for the best chicken gnocchi soup . Just the basics:

• A large pot or Dutch oven.
• A cutting board and knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• A ladle. You could use a big spoon as an alternative.

Honestly, if you have those, you're sorted! Let's get cooking this homemade chicken gnocchi soup , you will find the soup with gnocchi recipes are not as hard as they might seem.

Let's Talk Soup, Shall We? Your Creamy Dreamy Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Awaits!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of soup? Especially when it's a creamy, comforting hug in a bowl like the Olive Garden chicken and gnocchi soup.

But let's be real, dining out can be a drag. So, I thought, why not bring that Olive Garden Gnocchi magic home? And that's how this Creamy Dreamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe came to be.

It's easier than you think, I promise! We're talking seriously easy comfort soup recipes here, perfect for those winter dinner for kids or adults.

This recipe is all about capturing that comforting, slightly herby, and undeniably indulgent flavor profile we all crave.

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Moment

Before we get started, let's get organized, yeah? Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go is key. Chop your veggies: 1 medium yellow onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, and mince 2 cloves of garlic.

Measure out your spices: 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, ½ tsp of dried thyme, and ¼ tsp of red pepper flakes.

Also, Shred 1.5 lbs (680g) cooked chicken breasts. Get your chicken broth (6 cups/1.4L) ready and grate ½ cup (50g) of Parmesan cheese.

This is your essential mise en place trust me, it makes all the difference.

Oh my gosh, did I mention, pre-shred your cooked chicken? If you are cooking your own. A time saving tip? Use rotisserie chicken! Safety reminder: Always wash your hands and cutting boards after handling raw chicken.

step-by-step to Gnocchi Goodness

Alright, here's where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you'll be slurping homemade chicken gnocchi soup in no time.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5- 7 minutes . Then, add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute .
2. Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy). Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Gnocchi: Add 1 (17.6 oz / 500g) package of potato gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook according to package directions, until tender. Visual cue: They'll float to the top.
4. Add Chicken and Cream: Stir in the shredded chicken, 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Heat through, but don't boil!
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with 2 tbsp (30ml) of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Soup Superstars

Here are a few tricks I've learned along the way to take your soup with gnocchi recipes to the next level.

First, don't overcook the gnocchi. They cook quickly, and mushy gnocchi is a no-no. Always use low-sodium broth. This way you can control the saltiness of the best chicken gnocchi soup yourself.

And honestly, warming the cream prevents it from curdling!

Also, You can make this soup ahead of time! Just leave out the cream and gnocchi until you're ready to serve.

Store your creamy chicken soup in the fridge for up to three days.

Common mistake to avoid? Boiling the soup after adding cream. It can cause the cream to separate, which is not what we want.

Variations for Your Victory

Feeling adventurous? There are tons of gnocchi soup variations you can try! Substitute vegetable broth, or add white beans to make it vegetarian.

Substitute cooked turkey or sausage for chicken. If you're after a lighter soup, use half and-half. But remember, it won'll be as creamy.

Recipe Notes for Your Creamy Dreamy Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Adventure

Honestly, making this Olive Garden chicken and gnocchi soup is easier than mastering the tube map. It's like a warm hug in a bowl! This section is all about making it your own and answering any burning questions.

Think of it as our little chat about tips and tricks.

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key, Mate!

Okay, so plating isn't just for fancy restaurants. A little effort goes a long way. Try ladling your soup into a bowl and swirling a touch more cream on top.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color, too.

As for sides, some crusty bread for dipping is a must. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the soup.

It’s great for Winter Dinner For Kids , serve with a smile!. You know? A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, is fab for us grown ups.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Alive

Right, so you've got leftovers. Lucky you! Let it cool completely before popping it in an airtight container.

• Refrigeration: It’ll keep happily in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This is where it gets tricky. Creamy soups can sometimes separate when frozen. If you really want to freeze it, consider leaving out the cream and adding it when reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.

Variations: Making it Your Own

Fancy a tweak? Go for it! Making Soup With Gnocchi Recipes can be fun

• Dietary Adaptations: For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the chicken. Add some cannellini beans for protein. For dairy-free, try coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It gives a lovely richness!
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, add some roasted butternut squash for a sweeter flavor. In the spring, some fresh spinach would be lovely.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bowl

Let's keep it real: this is comfort food, not a salad. One serving of this homemade chicken gnocchi soup has approximately 350-450 calories, 25-35g of protein, 20-30g of fat and 20-30g of carbs.

However, it does pack a good dose of protein and calcium. Plus, it's made with love! The recipe has a potential to be included as Easy Comfort Soup Recipes .

Okay, that's your lot. Now go forth and make some creamy chicken soup ! Don't be afraid to experiment and have a laugh.

Remember: the best chicken gnocchi soup recipe is the one you enjoy making. You've got this! Making a best chicken gnocchi soup for family and friends! Enjoy your Olive Garden Gnocchi .