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, featuring tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi nestled in a luscious broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners, quick lunches, or meal prepping, each spoonful envelops you in warmth, making it an irresistible choice for anyone seeking comforting food that delights the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this hearty soup in no time.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Rich and creamy: The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luxurious texture that satisfies.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything at hand makes the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for preparing soups as it allows ample space for stirring without spills.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping your ingredients safely and efficiently.

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Ingredients

For this delicious soup, gather the following 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.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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: Mix Seasonings

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

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Gradually sprinkle in flour while stirring until smooth.

Step 6: Cook Flour Mixture

Cook the flour mixture for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 7: Add Chicken Broth

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

Step 8: Combine Dairy Ingredients

Add milk and heavy cream; stir until well combined.

Step 9: Stir in Spinach and Chicken

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

Step 10: Bring to Boil

Bring soup to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 11: Cook Gnocchi

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

Step 12: 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 can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of freshly baked crusty bread for dipping. This adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of fresh flavor.

Alongside a Simple Salad

• Pair the soup with a light mixed green salad. A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and is perfect for sharing.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. A sprinkle on top of each bowl adds an extra layer of flavor that many will love.

Accompanied by Garlic Breadsticks

• Serve warm garlic breadsticks alongside the soup. Their buttery, garlicky taste pairs well with the creamy broth.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour or let it simmer longer to reduce. For a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth or milk.

• Customize Protein: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef for different flavors while maintaining similar cooking methods.

• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables like peas or mushrooms to boost nutrition and add variety to your dish.

• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasonings according to your preference, ensuring it meets your desired flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Complementing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup with the right sides can make for an enjoyable meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the delicious soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness that balances the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a healthy side that enhances your meal’s nutritional value.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are light and refreshing alongside the hearty soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a fulfilling side dish option.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are great for dipping into the creamy gnocchi soup.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and veggies offers a nutritious contrast to the richness of the soup.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this creamy dip as an appetizer before enjoying your main course; it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is perfect.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Cook them just until they are tender but still retain some crunch.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Skipping the Flour Mixing Step: Failing to properly mix flour with the butter and oil can create lumps. Make sure to stir consistently until smooth before adding liquids.
• Adding Gnocchi Too Early: If you add gnocchi too soon, they may become overcooked and fall apart. Wait until the soup is almost done boiling before adding them.
• Not Adjusting for Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider reducing the amount of broth or increasing the cream slightly. Adjust to your taste for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it for storage.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use homemade gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! Using homemade gnocchi can elevate your dish. Just be sure they are cooked before adding them to the soup.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and almond milk.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Feel free to use turkey or beef if you prefer different meat options. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the soup.

Can I customize the vegetables in Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! You can add various vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or zucchini according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion – from cozy family dinners to meal prep for busy weeks ahead. We encourage you to give this recipe a try!