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
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook potato gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.
- Pour in half-and-half and add the cooked gnocchi. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Certainly! Thaw and drain the frozen spinach before adding it to the soup.
Q2: Is it necessary to cook the gnocchi separately?
Yes, cooking the gnocchi separately ensures the right texture and prevents them from becoming mushy in the soup.
Q3: Can I use rotisserie chicken for convenience?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works well and adds a flavorful touch.
Q4: How long can I store the leftover soup?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adjusting consistency with additional broth if needed.
Conclusion:
Warm your soul with a bowl of our Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup! This homemade version captures the essence of the restaurant favorite, offering a delightful medley of flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for a cozy night in, share the warmth and savor every spoonful!