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 Goodness: The combination of heavy cream and milk creates a rich and satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Hearty Meal: Packed with chicken and gnocchi, this soup serves as a filling main dish that will leave everyone satisfied.
• Family Favorite: Its comforting flavors make it a hit among both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without splattering. It accommodates all ingredients comfortably.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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 the Hearty Filling

• 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 the Butter and Oil

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• Add in the chopped celery.
• Cook for about 5–10 minutes until soft.

Step 3: Add Garlic

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

Step 4: Mix in Seasonings

• Add shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Gradually sprinkle in flour while stirring continuously until smooth.

Step 6: Cook Flour Mixture

Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Step 7: Add Broth

Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring gently to dissolve any lumps from the flour mixture.

Step 8: Combine Dairy Ingredients

Add milk and heavy cream; stir until everything is well combined.

Step 9: Stir in Spinach and Chicken

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

Step 10: Bring to a Gentle Boil

Bring soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking on the bottom of the pot.

Step 11: Cook Gnocchi

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

Step 12: Serve

Ladle into bowls and serve hot for a comforting meal everyone will love!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This creamy and hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and add a delightful touch to your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread adds a savory element that complements the soup’s richness.

Adding Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
• Thyme Sprigs – Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.

Complementing with Salads

• Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Mixed Greens – A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Garnishing Ideas

• Parmesan Cheese – Shaved or grated Parmesan cheese can enhance flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Croutons – Add a crunchy texture with homemade or store-bought croutons.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To achieve the ultimate version of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is as delicious as possible.

• Bold Seasoning – Adjust the seasoning to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper for extra flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible for the best taste and nutrition.
• Consistent Texture – Stir frequently while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth broth.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately – For better control over texture, consider cooking gnocchi separately and adding them just before serving.
• Cream Alternatives – If looking for lighter options, substitute some heavy cream with low-fat milk or plant-based cream alternatives.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent suggestions that complement this comforting dish beautifully.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutritional value and vibrant color to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings depth and flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing offers a healthy grain option.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide substance alongside the soup.
6. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs is an easy side that complements the soup’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Bold neglecting seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning can make the soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and spices accordingly.
• Bold overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can result in a mushy texture. Add them just before serving and cook until they float, typically 4-5 minutes.
• Bold using low-quality broth: Using inferior broth can diminish the soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken broth or homemade broth for better taste.
• Bold rushing the cooking process: Being impatient may lead to unevenly cooked vegetables. Take your time to sauté ingredients properly for enhanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Allow the soup to cool down before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand 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 with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely. Stir every minute until hot, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh gnocchi can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may cook faster than frozen gnocchi.

How do I make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use non-dairy milk.

What can I add to enhance flavor in Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Fresh herbs like thyme or basil work wonders. You can also try adding fresh vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Can I prepare Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup offers a wonderful comfort food experience with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. It’s versatile enough to allow customization with your favorite veggies or herbs. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy warm bowls of deliciousness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a delightful homemade dish that rivals your favorite restaurant fare. This creamy soup features tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi swimming in a rich broth, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or meal prep. With quick preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Each bowl offers a warm embrace that satisfies both adults and kids alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil.
2. Add chopped celery and sauté for 5–10 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Mix in shredded carrots, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add flour while stirring until smooth; cook for about 2 minutes.
6. Slowly incorporate chicken broth while stirring to dissolve lumps.
7. Add milk and heavy cream; stir well.
8. Fold in frozen spinach and cooked chicken; heat through.
9. Bring to a gentle boil; then add gnocchi and cook until they float (about 4–5 minutes).
10. Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg