Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)
Try this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, a delicious copycat version of the Olive Garden favorite.
Try this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, a delicious copycat version of the Olive Garden favorite.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup onion diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 cup celery diced
- 1 (14 ounce can chicken broth) for a thinner soup us
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves chopped
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast (i used rotisserie)
- 1 16 ounce package potato gnocchi (on the pasta isle)
- Carbohydrate 24.9063922066642 g
- Cholesterol 168.133672012368 mg
- Fat 53.5621973870056 g
- Fiber 1.05071875759777 g
- Protein 13.5218720423755 g
- Saturated Fat 33.1312055268321 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (478g)
- Sodium 281.54888433775 mg
- Sugar 23.8556734490664 g
- Trans Fat 2.86590734602875 g
- Calories 623 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large pot add butter and olive oil.
- Over medium high heat sauté onion, celery and garlic until tender.
- Add the flour to create a roux and cook for another minute.
- Slowly add the half and half and chicken broth and stir until it starts to thicken.
- Add the thyme, carrots, spinach, chicken and gnocchi.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes or until gnocchi is cooked and soup is thickened. (If you want a thinner soup add another can of chicken broth.)
- Salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
My Favorite Weeknight Comfort Food: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending to-do list, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for quick, easy, and flavorful recipes that the whole family will love. And this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup? It’s become a weekly staple in our house.
I first tasted a similar soup at Olive Garden, and I was instantly hooked. The creamy, comforting broth, the tender chicken, the pillowy gnocchi – it was pure perfection. But let’s be honest, eating out every week isn't feasible (or budget-friendly!). So, I set out on a mission to recreate that deliciousness in my own kitchen. And after a few tries, I perfected my own version – a copycat recipe that’s even better than the restaurant’s!
What makes this recipe so special? It's the simplicity. There's no need for a long list of obscure ingredients or complicated techniques. Just a few pantry staples and some fresh produce, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of warmth and flavor in under 30 minutes. I often use rotisserie chicken to save even more time, but you can certainly cook your own chicken breast if you prefer. The key is to use good quality ingredients, and the flavors will truly shine.
The best part? This soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. Some nights I add mushrooms or zucchini, while other times I use whatever’s on sale at the farmer’s market. It’s a blank canvas for culinary creativity, and it’s always delicious.
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a moment of peace in the midst of a busy day. The comforting aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers is enough to melt away any stress. The taste? Well, let's just say it’s the kind of meal that brings the family together. Everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a warm bowl of goodness. It’s these moments, these simple pleasures, that make life worth living.
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. It’s a recipe that I’m proud to share with you, hoping it will bring a little bit of comfort and joy to your kitchen, too. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite music, and get ready to indulge in a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.
Beyond the Recipe: A Little Something Extra
This recipe isn't just about the soup; it's about the experience. It's about slowing down in a fast-paced world and taking the time to nourish yourself and your loved ones. It’s about creating memories around the dinner table, about sharing laughter and stories, and about the simple joy of a homemade meal.
I often find myself reflecting on the importance of these simple rituals. In today's hectic lives, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities. But taking a break to prepare a comforting meal like this soup is a way to ground myself and appreciate the small things. It’s a reminder to savor the moments, to connect with my family, and to appreciate the simple pleasures in life.
So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed, I encourage you to try this recipe. Let the comforting aroma and the delicious taste transport you to a place of calm and contentment. And remember, it's not just about the food; it's about the love and care you put into creating it, and the joy you share while enjoying it together.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded Parmesan cheese at the end.
- Add protein: Sausage, bacon, or pancetta would be delicious additions.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Enjoy!
