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, with 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

• Creamy Delight: The combination of heavy cream and milk creates a rich and velvety soup that’s simply irresistible.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly, allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring smooth mixing.
• Measuring cups: Help you get precise amounts of ingredients for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

To create this comforting soup, gather these ingredients:

• 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
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups milk
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 ounces chopped frozen spinach
• 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 butter and olive oil together until bubbly.

Step 2: Cook Celery

Add chopped celery and cook for about 5–10 minutes until soft.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Vegetables and Seasonings

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

Step 5: Add Flour

Gradually sprinkle in flour while stirring until smooth. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 6: Incorporate Broth

Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to dissolve any lumps.

Step 7: Add Dairy

Add milk and heavy cream; stir until well combined.

Step 8: Mix in Spinach and Chicken

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

Step 9: Bring to Boil

Bring soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 10: Cook Gnocchi

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

Step 11: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and serve hot for a comforting meal!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add some flair, here are some fun serving suggestions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Grated Parmesan: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with warm garlic breadsticks for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

As Part of a Meal

• Salad Side: Offer a light salad on the side, like a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the soup.
• Vegetable Platter: Include a platter of fresh veggies with dip for a healthy crunch.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is exceptional.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste and nutrition of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For best results, consider cooking gnocchi separately in boiling water before adding them to the soup for better texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time; let it cool completely before storing. It tastes even better the next day!
• Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with more fresh herbs or even chili flakes for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

1. Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with olive oil.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender make a perfect complement.
3. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Slices topped with melted cheese and garlic butter add deliciousness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and fiber.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers create fresh bites.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty side option.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomato-basil mix provides a refreshing contrast.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs adds a light side dish that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take the time to soften your celery and garlic before adding other ingredients.
• Using cold broth or milk: Adding cold liquids can cause your soup to simmer unevenly. Warm your chicken broth and milk before mixing them in for a smoother texture.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Letting gnocchi cook too long can make them mushy. As soon as they float, they’re done—immediately remove them from heat.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste frequently and adjust salt and spices as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe limits flavor variety. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like mushrooms or peas for added nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi. Just keep an eye on cooking time as fresh gnocchi may cook faster than frozen ones.

Is there a way to make this soup lighter?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

How do I customize Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What pairs well with this soup?

This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Give it a try and enjoy each hearty spoonful!