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

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: With a blend of spices and creamy goodness, each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables to cater to different tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a big batch for the week, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and soothing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious soup, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities and allowing all ingredients to blend well.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps achieve a smooth mixture.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

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 Creamy Broth

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

For the 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 Butter and Oil

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

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: Season the Mixture

Mix in shredded carrots along with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Create the Roux

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

Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients

Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to dissolve any lumps. Then add milk and heavy cream; stir until well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Chicken and Spinach

Fold in frozen spinach and cooked shredded chicken; mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the soup.

Step 7: Bring to a Boil

Bring the soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Cook Gnocchi

Carefully add gnocchi; cook until they float (about 4–5 minutes). This indicates they are done!

Step 9: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and serve hot, enjoying every comforting bite of your delicious creation!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and creating a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious soup that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky sticks complement the soup’s richness and add a fun twist.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup effectively.

Enhance with Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for added flavor and freshness.
• Shredded Cheese: A handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan can elevate each bowl’s taste.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Serving the soup in individual bowls makes it feel special and encourages guests to enjoy their own servings.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup involves paying attention to detail to achieve an irresistible flavor profile. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible for enhanced flavor.
• Control Heat Levels: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring all ingredients meld nicely.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer longer or add more flour gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Incorporate Varied Veggies: Feel free to add favorites like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and spices gradually for a balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Completing your meal with delightful side dishes can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options that pair well with Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets tossed in garlic and Parmesan make a flavorful side.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy complement to the creamy soup.
4. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm dip served with tortilla chips adds a fun appetizer element before the main course.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and cheese create a hearty side dish option.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy can be an appealing finger food alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: When you cook the celery and carrots for too long, they can lose their texture. Aim for a tender but crisp finish by monitoring the cooking time closely.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: A bland soup is a missed opportunity! Ensure you season adequately, tasting as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the Flour Cooking Step: If you skip cooking the flour mixture, your soup may taste raw or have a gritty texture. Make sure to cook it for at least two minutes to develop flavor.
• Adding Gnocchi Too Early: Adding gnocchi too soon can lead to mushy pasta. Wait until the soup is boiling before adding them, allowing them to float properly when cooked.
• Ignoring Customization Options: Sticking rigidly to the recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to personalize your soup and make it uniquely yours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covered. Heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthier?

You can reduce fat by substituting heavy cream with low-fat milk or using plant-based cream alternatives. Adding more vegetables also boosts nutrition.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will cook more quickly than frozen ones, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly when adding them to the soup.

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

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What can I add for extra flavor in Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or add spices such as red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with plant-based protein such as chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its comforting flavors make it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs—each variation offers something new and delightful!