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

• Comforting and Creamy: This soup is rich and velvety, perfect for cold days or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to make this dish truly your own.
• Hearty Meal: Packed with chicken and gnocchi, this soup serves as a complete meal that satisfies hunger.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make this comforting soup, having the right kitchen tools will make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to better flavor balance in your soup.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of this delicious soup.

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 Add-Ins

• 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 the butter and olive oil together.

Step 2: Sauté 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: Add Seasonings

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

Step 4: Make the Roux

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

Step 5: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

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

Step 6: Add Spinach and Chicken

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

Step 7: Bring to Boil

Bring the soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Cook Gnocchi

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

Step 9: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and serve hot, enjoying every comforting bite!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth. A sourdough or ciabatta loaf works great!

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and color.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Add Grated Cheese

• Enhance each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese for an extra savory touch.

Offer a Variety of Crackers

• Present an assortment of crackers to accompany the soup. This adds texture and is perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy element.

Create a Comfort Food Platter

• Serve the soup alongside other comfort food favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic breadsticks for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To make this soup even more delicious, consider these simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly improve the taste of your soup. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra warmth and depth in flavor.

• Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute some heavy cream with additional milk or chicken broth without sacrificing flavor.

• Incorporate More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables such as peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Prepare the soup ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors meld beautifully when given time to rest.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing sides with your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can take your meal to the next level. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creaminess of the soup perfectly. Spread butter mixed with minced garlic on baguette slices before toasting them.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest, balancing out the richness of the soup with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast. Toss veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil and roast until tender.

4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with hearty soup.

5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits made with cheese can be dipped into the soup for an extra layer of flavor.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies offers protein and fiber while enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or quinoa make for a wholesome side that complements the flavors in the soup nicely.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm spinach artichoke dip served with tortilla chips adds an indulgent touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of while making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using imprecise measurements can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always measure your ingredients carefully for the best results.
• Skipping the sauté step: Rushing through the sautéing of vegetables can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take your time to properly cook them until they are soft and fragrant.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Allowing gnocchi to cook too long can make them mushy. They should float when cooked; remove them promptly for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you go is essential. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your personal taste preferences for a well-rounded dish.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can diminish the overall taste of the soup. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth or homemade version for richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat portions in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir frequently until warmed throughout, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade chicken broth?

Yes! Homemade chicken broth enhances the flavor and makes the soup even more delicious.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work great. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies such as peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

How does this compare to Olive Garden’s version?

This recipe is richer and creamier than Olive Garden’s, focusing on fresh ingredients that elevate the classic flavors.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that offers warmth and satisfaction. Its versatility allows for customization based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a delightful copycat recipe that brings restaurant-quality comfort to your kitchen. This creamy soup features tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi nestled in a rich, velvety broth, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or quick lunches. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this satisfying dish any day of the week. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste. Each bowl is a warm embrace, perfect for anyone seeking a delicious and comforting meal.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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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. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Mix in shredded carrots along with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Gradually add flour while stirring continuously to form a roux; cook for about 2 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to remove lumps, then add milk and heavy cream.
6. Fold in frozen spinach and cooked shredded chicken; mix well.
7. Bring the soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
8. Add gnocchi; cook until they float (about 4-5 minutes).
9. Serve hot in bowls.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg