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### **How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup**
#### **Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables**
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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#### **Step 2: Create the Base**
1. Sprinkle the thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the sautéed vegetables. Stir to coat evenly.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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#### **Step 3: Add the Chicken and Gnocchi**
1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cooked chicken.
2. Add the gnocchi, allowing them to simmer in the soup for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender.
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#### **Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Spinach**
1. Slowly pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, but avoid bringing it to a boil.
2. Add the chopped spinach, stirring until it wilts into the soup.
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#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool slightly.
2. Ladle into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Restaurant-Quality at Home:** It tastes just like Olive Garden’s famous soup but with the satisfaction of homemade freshness.
– **Quick and Easy:** Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
– **Creamy and Comforting:** The rich, velvety broth and tender gnocchi make every bite irresistible.
– **Customizable:** You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences—use turkey instead of chicken, add mushrooms, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
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### **Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup**
1. **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** It’s a time-saving option that’s flavorful and tender.
2. **Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi:** Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook quickly. Overcooking can make them too soft.
3. **Choose Fresh Spinach:** It adds a burst of color and freshness to the creamy base.
4. **Thicker Soup:** If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the broth before adding the cream.
5. **Make It Lighter:** Substitute half-and-half with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
Pair this soup with:
– **Garlic Breadsticks**: Perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy broth.
– **House Salad**: Mimic Olive Garden’s iconic pairing with a crisp, zesty salad.
– **Wine**: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
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### **Conclusion**
Recreating **Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup** at home is easier than you think, and the results are as delicious as dining out. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or indulging in a cozy bowl on a cold day, this recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your craving for creamy, hearty goodness.
Give it a try and bring the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant right to your kitchen!
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