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

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a velvety base that enhances the flavors.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this comforting soup, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or mushrooms for a personalized touch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week without compromising on taste.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to please even picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need to create this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for simmering soups and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements, leading to consistent results every time.

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
• 1/4 cup flour

For the Creamy Broth

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups milk
• 1.5 cups heavy cream

For Added Protein and Veggies

• 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 the Butter and Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the 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: Combine Seasonings

Mix in shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Step 4: Add Flour

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

Step 5: Pour in Broth

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

Step 6: Incorporate Dairy

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: Add Gnocchi

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

Step 10: 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 an opportunity to enhance its delightful flavors and create a memorable dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will take your soup to the next level.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery sticks add a delicious garlic flavor that complements the soup.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil make for a vibrant side.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty flavor that enriches each bite.

Customize with Condiments

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To ensure your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried options.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: Cooking gnocchi in another pot helps maintain their texture before adding them to the soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi separately from the soup to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich soup wonderfully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients while enhancing flavors.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil makes for a light yet flavorful addition.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and herbs provide a hearty option alongside your soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds a nutritious touch.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip served with pita chips offers a delightful appetizer before diving into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your cooking experience with Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality chicken for a vibrant taste.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take time to cook the celery and garlic until they are fragrant and soft.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they float to the surface.
• Using low-fat dairy products: Low-fat options can affect creaminess. Stick with full-fat milk and heavy cream to achieve that rich, comforting texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every palate is different! Taste your soup before serving, and adjust salt and pepper as needed for personalized flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion as it freezes.

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 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Start with 2 minutes on high.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different proteins in this soup?

Yes, you can substitute cooked shredded turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile.

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or peas. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also enhance flavor beautifully.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

You can use store-bought gnocchi or make your own from scratch if you prefer a more personal touch.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cozy dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or herbs – it’s versatile enough for any palate!