Video Guide

What You Need to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable soup. Here’s a list of what you’ll need, along with a few notes on why each component is essential for that signature Olive Garden flavor:

• Butter: Forms the rich base for sautéing the vegetables.
• Celery: Adds a subtle, aromatic crunch to the soup base.
• Garlic Cloves: Essential for a fragrant and savory depth of flavor.
• Onion: Provides a sweet and pungent foundation when caramelized.
• Red Bell Pepper: Contributes a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
• Flour: The key to thickening our creamy broth, creating that classic chowder-like consistency.
• Half and Half: Delivers richness and creaminess without being overly heavy. You can adjust for desired creaminess (see Pro Tips).
• Milk: Thins the broth slightly while maintaining a creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth: The main liquid base, providing savory chicken flavor. Opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
• Cooked Chicken Breast: Adds protein and heartiness. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut here!
• Potato Gnocchi: These tender, pillowy pasta dumplings are the star! Choose simple potato gnocchi for the best results.
• Fresh Spinach: Wilted into the hot soup, it adds a touch of green, freshness, and nutrients.
• Thyme: A classic herb that complements chicken beautifully.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the soup to perfection. Always taste and adjust!
• Parmesan Cheese: For garnish, providing a salty, umami finish. Freshly grated is always best!

Refer to the full recipe card below for exact quantities.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this delicious soup is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a homemade meal that rivals your restaurant favorite:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by preparing your vegetables: chop the celery, mince the garlic, and dice the onion and bell pepper. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, and celery. Sauté these ingredients, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become translucent and tender, releasing their wonderful aromas. This foundational step is crucial for building the soup’s flavor depth.

Step 2: Create the Roux. Once the vegetables are tender, sprinkle the flour evenly over them. Stir continuously for about 1 minute over low heat, ensuring all the vegetables are coated. This creates a roux, which will serve as the thickening agent for our creamy broth, preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Broth. Gradually pour in the milk and half and half, stirring constantly to incorporate the flour and prevent any lumps. Cook this mixture over medium heat, continuing to stir regularly, until it begins to thicken. Next, add the chicken broth and continue cooking and stirring over medium heat until the soup reaches a desired, chowder-like consistency. Be patient during this step to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken beautifully.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi, Chicken, and Greens. While the soup base is simmering, cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. They usually only take a few minutes to cook. Once drained, gently add the cooked chicken (shredded or diced), the freshly cooked gnocchi, chopped spinach, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the soup base. Stir everything gently to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to fully meld together. Avoid over-stirring to keep the gnocchi intact.

Step 5: Season and Serve. Once the soup is heated through and the spinach has wilted, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For the ultimate Olive Garden experience, serve alongside warm, toasted garlic bread – perfect for dipping! A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes an excellent accompaniment.

Pro Tips & Variations for the Perfect Soup

Enhance your Chicken Gnocchi Soup experience with these expert tips and adaptable variations:

Equipment Matters

For creamy soups, preventing scorching is key. I highly recommend using either an enamel-coated cast iron Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed, well-made soup pot. These types of pots distribute heat evenly, significantly reducing the risk of hot spots that can cause the creamy soup base to burn or stick to the bottom. Their superior heat retention also means your soup will stay warmer longer off the heat.

Cooking Creamy Soups

When simmering your soup, always keep the temperature low to medium-low, especially after adding any dairy products like milk or half and half. Creamy soups are very susceptible to scalding, which can result in a burnt taste and an unappealing texture. Stir frequently to prevent the milk solids from settling and burning at the bottom of the pot. Patience is a virtue here, ensuring a smooth, delicious outcome.

Storage & Leftovers

If you anticipate having leftovers, here’s a pro tip: cook the gnocchi separately and add them directly to individual bowls just before serving, rather than stirring them into the main pot of soup. Gnocchi stored in liquid tend to absorb a lot of moisture and can become mushy or overly soft. By keeping them separate, your leftover gnocchi will maintain their delightful chewy and somewhat firm texture when reheated, ensuring a better eating experience.

Vegetarian Adaptation

Easily transform this hearty soup into a delicious vegetarian meal. Simply substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of good quality vegetable broth. Of course, you’ll also omit the cooked chicken. To add more substance, consider increasing the amount of spinach or adding other quick-cooking vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans alongside the gnocchi.

For a Richer, Creamier Version

If you’re craving an even more decadent soup, you have a couple of options. For maximum richness, you can swap out the half & half for heavy cream. This will yield a thicker, more luxurious broth. Alternatively, if you want a subtle increase in creaminess without going full heavy cream, use half & half in place of the milk. This allows for a delightful balance between rich and light, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions Beyond Bread

While garlic bread is a classic pairing, consider other options! A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would cut through the richness beautifully. For a heartier side, a simple cheese board with some crusty bread and olives could complement the Italian theme. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, also pairs wonderfully.

Freezer Instructions

Preparing this Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time and freezing it is a fantastic way to ensure a quick and delicious meal on busy days. To freeze the soup effectively and maintain its quality, follow these modified steps:

Follow the soup instructions as usual up to Step 4, but do not cook or add the gnocchi and do not add the half and half (or heavy cream/milk that replaced it). This is crucial because gnocchi can become too soft or disintegrate upon freezing and reheating in the soup, and dairy products can sometimes separate when frozen, affecting the texture of the defrosted soup.

Allow the soup base (containing vegetables, flour, chicken broth, and milk) to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe, airtight container. Label the container clearly with the date and contents. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To Serve Frozen Soup:

1. Thaw the soup base overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Transfer the thawed soup base to a large soup pot and heat gently over medium-low heat until it begins to simmer.
3. At this point, stir in 1-½ cups of half and half (or your preferred creamy dairy). Continue to heat, stirring regularly, until the soup is thoroughly heated through and creamy. Avoid boiling.
4. Meanwhile, cook one pound of potato gnocchi according to its package directions. Drain well.
5. Add the freshly cooked gnocchi to the simmering soup. Stir gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese and a side of toasted garlic bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup (Copycat Recipe)

Video Guide

What You Need to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable soup. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature Olive Garden flavor and comforting texture. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need, along with a brief explanation of their contribution to the dish:

• Butter (4 tablespoons): This is the foundation of our soup, used to slowly sauté the vegetables and build a rich, flavorful roux. High-quality butter makes a noticeable difference.
• Celery (½ cup, chopped): Part of the classic mirepoix, celery adds a subtle, earthy flavor and aromatic complexity to the soup base.
• Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Essential for a fragrant and savory depth, garlic is a cornerstone of Italian-inspired dishes and infuses the broth with its pungent warmth.
• Onion (1, diced): Providing a sweet and foundational savory flavor when slowly cooked and caramelized, the onion is crucial for the soup’s overall taste profile.
• Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Adds a mild sweetness and a beautiful splash of color, along with some beneficial vitamins, contributing to the soup’s robust vegetable medley.
• Flour (4 tablespoons): This forms the roux with the butter, acting as the primary thickening agent for the creamy broth. It’s essential for achieving that desirable chowder-like consistency.
• Half and Half (1½ cups): Delivers a perfect balance of richness and creaminess without making the soup excessively heavy. It contributes to the luxurious mouthfeel that defines this dish.
• Milk (1½ cups): Used to thin the broth slightly while still contributing to its creamy texture. Whole milk is recommended for the best flavor and body.
• Chicken Broth (28 ounces): The main liquid base for the soup, providing a robust and savory chicken flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth to have better control over the final seasoning.
• Cooked Chicken Breast (1 cup, chopped): Adds protein and heartiness to the soup. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic and time-saving shortcut, offering tender, pre-seasoned meat.
• Potato Gnocchi (1 pound): These delightful, tender, and pillowy potato pasta dumplings are the star! Choose simple, plain potato gnocchi to allow them to absorb the rich flavors of the soup. Fresh or shelf-stable varieties work best.
• Fresh Spinach (1 cup, chopped): Wilted into the hot soup just before serving, fresh spinach adds a touch of vibrant green, a hint of freshness, and a boost of essential nutrients.
• Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon): A classic herb that beautifully complements chicken and creamy soups, adding an aromatic, slightly earthy note.
• Dried Parsley (½ teaspoon): Contributes a fresh, herbaceous brightness that lifts the overall flavor of the soup.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the soup to perfection. Always taste and adjust as you go, especially after adding broth and dairy.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of high-quality Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a salty, umami kick and an authentic Italian flourish that enhances every spoonful.

Refer to the full recipe card below for exact quantities and a printable version.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this delicious soup is a rewarding experience and simpler than you might think. Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to prepare a homemade meal that rivals your restaurant favorite and delights your taste buds:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics. Begin by preparing your vegetables for maximum flavor release. Finely chop the celery, mince the garlic cloves, and dice the onion and red bell pepper. In a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, and celery to the melted butter. Sauté these ingredients, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables become translucent and tender, releasing their wonderful, savory aromas. This foundational step is crucial for building the soup’s rich flavor depth.

Step 2: Create the Roux. Once the vegetables are tender and fragrant, sprinkle the flour evenly over them. Stir continuously for about 1 minute over low heat. Ensure all the vegetables are thoroughly coated with the flour. This process cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a roux, which will serve as the essential thickening agent for our creamy broth, ensuring a smooth, lump-free, and perfectly rich consistency for the soup.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Broth. Gradually pour in the milk and half and half into the pot. As you pour, stir constantly to smoothly incorporate the flour and prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking this mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly, until it gently begins to thicken. Next, add the chicken broth and again cook over medium heat, continuing to stir regularly, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. It should have a delightful chowder-like texture. Be patient during this step to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the soup to achieve its signature creaminess.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi, Chicken, and Greens. While the soup base is simmering and thickening, cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. Gnocchi typically cook very quickly, often just a few minutes until they float to the surface. Once drained, gently add the pre-cooked chicken (shredded or diced), the freshly cooked and drained gnocchi, the chopped fresh spinach, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the soup base. Stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients. Allow the spinach to wilt into the hot soup and all the flavors to fully meld together for a few minutes over low heat. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can break apart the delicate gnocchi.

Step 5: Season and Serve. Once the soup is thoroughly heated through and the spinach has wilted, it’s time to perfect the flavor. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the chicken broth and other ingredients already contribute some sodium, so taste carefully and adjust as needed. Ladle the hot, steaming soup into individual bowls and for the ultimate Olive Garden experience, garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately alongside warm, toasted garlic bread – it’s perfect for dipping into that luscious, creamy broth! A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes an excellent and refreshing accompaniment to this hearty meal.

Pro Tips & Variations for the Perfect Soup

Elevate your homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these expert tips and versatile variations, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference and ensure perfect results every time.

Choosing the Right Equipment

When cooking creamy soups, preventing scorching and ensuring even heat distribution are paramount. I highly recommend using either an enamel-coated cast iron Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed, high-quality soup pot. These types of cookware excel at distributing heat uniformly, significantly reducing the risk of hot spots that can cause the delicate, creamy soup base to burn or stick to the bottom. Their excellent heat retention properties also mean your soup will stay wonderfully warm for longer, perfect for second helpings.

Mastering Creamy Soup Cooking

The key to a velvety smooth creamy soup lies in careful heat management. Always keep the temperature low to medium-low, especially after you’ve incorporated any dairy products like milk or half and half. Creamy soups are highly susceptible to scalding, which can impart an unpleasant burnt flavor and an undesirable grainy or separated texture. Stir frequently and consistently, especially scraping the bottom of the pot, to prevent milk solids from settling and burning. Patience during this phase will yield a truly luxurious and unblemished broth.

Optimizing Storage for Leftovers

If you anticipate having leftover soup, here’s a crucial tip to maintain the best texture: cook the gnocchi separately and add them directly to individual bowls just before serving, rather than stirring them into the main pot of soup. Gnocchi, when stored submerged in liquid, tend to absorb excessive moisture, becoming overly soft and mushy upon reheating. By keeping them separate and adding them fresh to each serving, your leftover gnocchi will retain their delightful chewy and somewhat firm texture, ensuring a superior eating experience with every reheated bowl.

Creating a Delicious Vegetarian Version

This hearty soup can be easily transformed into a delicious vegetarian meal. Simply substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of a good quality vegetable broth. Naturally, you’ll also omit the cooked chicken from the recipe. To add more substance and variety, consider increasing the amount of fresh spinach or incorporating other quick-cooking vegetables. Diced zucchini, sliced mushrooms, green beans, or even a handful of chopped kale would be excellent additions, providing extra flavor and nutrients.

Achieving an Extra Rich and Creamy Consistency

If you’re craving an even more decadent and indulgent soup, you have a couple of straightforward options to enhance its creaminess. For the ultimate richness, you can swap out the half & half entirely for heavy cream. This will yield a significantly thicker, more luxurious, and full-bodied broth. Alternatively, if you desire a noticeable increase in creaminess without the intensity of heavy cream, use half & half in place of both the milk and the specified half & half. This allows for a delightful balance between rich and light, enabling you to tailor the soup’s texture precisely to your preference.

Beyond Garlic Bread: Perfect Serving Companions

While toasted garlic bread is an undeniable classic pairing for this soup, don’t limit yourself! A fresh, crisp arugula salad dressed with a bright lemon vinaigrette provides a wonderful counterpoint, cutting through the soup’s richness. For a more rustic touch, a simple platter of crusty artisan bread, a selection of olives, and perhaps some sun-dried tomatoes would complement the Italian flavors beautifully. A glass of a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc also makes for a delightful beverage pairing, enhancing the dining experience.

Freezer Instructions

Preparing this Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time and freezing it is a fantastic way to ensure a quick, convenient, and delicious meal on busy days. Freezing a batch allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food without the full cooking effort later. To freeze the soup effectively and maintain its quality and texture, follow these modified steps carefully:

Follow the soup preparation instructions as usual, up to the point of adding the main liquids (chicken broth and milk). However, it is crucial that you do not cook or add the potato gnocchi and do not add the half and half (or any heavy cream/milk that might replace it at this stage). This is because gnocchi can become overly soft, mushy, or even disintegrate upon freezing and reheating within the soup, and dairy products like half and half can sometimes separate or change texture when frozen, affecting the overall creaminess and appearance of the defrosted soup.

Allow the prepared soup base (containing the sautéed vegetables, roux, chicken broth, and milk) to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling step is important to prevent ice crystals from forming excessively and to maintain food safety. Once fully cooled, transfer the soup base to a freezer-safe, airtight container. Ensure there is minimal headspace to prevent freezer burn. Label the container clearly with the recipe name (“Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup”), the date it was prepared, and instructions for completion. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To Serve Your Frozen Soup Base:

1. Thawing: Remove the frozen soup base from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker thaw, you can gently heat it in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until it is mostly defrosted.
2. Reheating & Finishing the Soup: Transfer the thawed soup base to a large soup pot and heat gently over medium-low heat until it begins to simmer. Once simmering, stir in the 1-½ cups of half and half (or your preferred creamy dairy). Continue to heat, stirring regularly to prevent scorching, until the soup is thoroughly heated through and creamy. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil, as this can affect the dairy’s texture.
3. Cook Gnocchi: While the soup is reheating, cook one pound of potato gnocchi according to its package directions on a separate stovetop burner. Gnocchi typically cooks quickly until it floats. Drain the cooked gnocchi well.
4. Combine & Serve: Add the freshly cooked gnocchi to the simmering soup. Stir gently to combine all components. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, as flavors can sometimes mellow in the freezer. Serve immediately, garnished generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of warm, toasted garlic bread. This method ensures that every element of your soup is at its peak quality, delivering a truly satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition per serving