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. It’s 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

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken broth, cream, and spices creates a robust taste that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Comforting Texture: With tender gnocchi and creamy broth, this soup is a soothing treat on chilly days.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for the soup to bubble without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: A sturdy wooden spoon helps stir ingredients thoroughly without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

To make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup 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 Creamy Broth

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

For Adding Protein and Vegetables

• 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: Melt Butter and Oil

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together until fully combined.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• Add the chopped celery to the pot.
• Cook for about 5–10 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Flour

• Mix in shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Gradually sprinkle in flour while stirring until smooth.

Step 4: Create the Broth

Cook this flour mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently.
Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to dissolve any lumps.
Add milk and heavy cream; stir until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Chicken and Spinach

Fold in frozen spinach and cooked shredded chicken; mix thoroughly. Bring soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi

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

Step 7: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about enhancing its creamy goodness and making it a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your soup presentation and enjoyment.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Although optional, a light dusting of cheese enhances the flavor profile.
• Cracked Black Pepper – A dash on top adds a touch of spice and visual appeal.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty French Bread – Perfect for dipping, this bread complements the soup’s creaminess.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These add a savory crunch that pairs beautifully with the warm soup.
• Herb Focaccia – Soft and flavorful, this bread makes for an excellent side option.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine with creamy dressing contrasts nicely with the soup’s richness.
• Mixed Green Salad – Light and refreshing greens balance the hearty flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To ensure your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup reaches its full potential, consider these tips for perfecting this comforting dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup taste even better.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Don’t hesitate to tweak spices according to your preference; every palate is different!
• Control Consistency – For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding gnocchi; for a thinner version, add more broth or milk.
• Experiment with Vegetables – Feel free to include favorites like peas or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
• Make Ahead for Flavors to Meld – Preparing the soup a day in advance allows flavors to develop fully.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To round out your meal, consider serving some delicious side dishes alongside Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side enhances the meal experience with its buttery flavor, perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies brings additional nutrition and flavors that complement the dish well.
4. Quinoa Salad – This protein-packed salad offers a nutty flavor and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Filled with rice or quinoa, these make for a hearty side that pairs well with the soup.
6. Simple Green Salad – Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the chicken gnocchi soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the balance of flavors. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly may lead to a lack of flavor. Take your time to cook them until they are soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth can make your soup taste flat. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Overcooking gnocchi: If you let the gnocchi cook too long, they can become mushy. Cook them just until they float in the soup.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adding more salt or herbs can enhance the overall flavor, so don’t skip this crucial step.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, note that gnocchi may change texture when frozen.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup better than Olive Garden’s?

This homemade version allows you to customize flavors and ingredients while ensuring freshness and quality in every spoonful.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute shredded turkey or even use beef or lamb if desired, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with plant-based proteins like beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your choice of proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!