Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Indulge in the creamy comfort of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a delightful copycat recipe that elevates your dining experience. This homemade version is rich and flavorful, featuring tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi nestled in a luscious broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners, quick lunches, or meal prepping for the week ahead, each spoonful envelops you in warmth—making it an irresistible choice for anyone seeking comfort food that delights the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and milk creates a velvety soup that soothes the soul.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and seasonings add depth and richness to every bowl.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your tastes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities; provides ample space for simmering the soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot; helps prevent lumps when mixing the flour.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving soup; ensures you get just the right amount in each bowl.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For the Soup Body

• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups milk
• 1.5 cups heavy cream

For Adding Protein and Greens

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 ounces chopped frozen spinach

For the Gnocchi

• 16 ounces gnocchi

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

• Add chopped celery and cook for about 5–10 minutes until soft.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Mix in shredded carrots, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Gradually sprinkle in flour while stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Create the Broth Base

Cook the flour mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to dissolve any lumps.

Step 6: Combine Dairy Ingredients

Add milk and heavy cream; stir until well combined.

Step 7: Mix in Chicken and Spinach

Fold in frozen spinach and cooked shredded chicken; mix thoroughly.

Step 8: Bring to a Boil

Bring soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 9: Cook Gnocchi

Carefully add gnocchi; cook until they float (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 10: Serve

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your cozy meal!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance the dining experience. Consider these delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Thyme or Basil: Sprinkle fresh thyme or basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy soup, adding texture to each bite.

Topped with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan or Mozzarella: Add freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for a rich, cheesy finish.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Ladle the soup into individual bowls for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.

Garnished with a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.

Paired with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To achieve the best version of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Include Extra Veggies: Feel free to customize your soup by adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For firmer gnocchi, cook them separately and add them just before serving.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge; reheat and enjoy throughout the week for quick meals.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides protein and fiber without overpowering the soup’s flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a hearty side that complements the soup well.
7. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette adds variety and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
8. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes an inviting appetizer before enjoying your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Bold flavor adjustments: Many people forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Always sample your soup and add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Bold overcooking gnocchi: Gnocchi should float when done; cooking them too long can make them mushy. Monitor closely during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Cold broth or cream can lower the temperature of your soup. Always use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother mix.
• Bold neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like fresh herbs diminishes flavor. Consider adding fresh thyme or basil for a vibrant finish.
• Bold ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can affect texture and flavor. Make sure to store leftovers in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in portions for easy reheating later, up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot, typically around 5-7 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, usually about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, replace chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What if I don’t have gnocchi?

If you can’t find gnocchi, consider using small pasta shapes like ditalini or shell pasta as an alternative.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as peas, mushrooms, or zucchini can enhance nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This versatile recipe allows for customization with various proteins and vegetables. We encourage you to try it out and make it your own!