Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Love the Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Olive Garden? If so, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Olive Garden Copycat recipe! This soup is Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup and it’s full of flavor, chicken, and gnocchi. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, this dish boasts creamy textures and hearty ingredients that will delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices creates a robust taste that satisfies.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a comforting meal without the long wait.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, appealing to both adults and kids alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or protein based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
• Creamy Comfort: The blend of heavy cream and milk ensures a luscious texture that is hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Allows you to cook everything in one vessel, saving time on cleanup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups: Help achieve precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped celery (about 2-3 stalks)
• 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 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken meat (2 legs and 2 thighs, cooked)
• 8 ounce chopped frozen spinach
• 16 ounces gnocchi

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Heat the Base

In a large pot, over medium heat, melt butter and heat olive oil.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once butter is melted:
1. Add in celery and cook for about 5–10 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Seasonings

Add in shredded carrots along with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.

Step 4: Create the Roux

1. Sprinkle flour over the mixture.
2. Stir until everything is combined.
3. Cook this flour mixture for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids

Add chicken broth gradually while stirring well to break up any clumps. Follow this by adding milk and heavy cream; stir until smooth.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Chicken

Toss in chopped frozen spinach along with cooked shredded chicken. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Boil the Soup

Turn up the heat to bring the soup to a boil.

Step 8: Cook Gnocchi

Gently add gnocchi to the boiling soup and cook for about 4–5 minutes until they float.

Step 9: Serve Hot/Warm

Once done, serve hot or warm, enjoying every comforting bite of your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delicious ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty, nutty flavor that complements the soup.

Pair with Warm Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy goodness.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and texture to your meal.

Offer a Beverage

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea pairs well and helps cleanse the palate.
• Sparkling Water: Serve sparkling water with lemon for a bubbly, refreshing option.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting this recipe can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some tips to make it even better.

• Bold Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for more depth in flavor.
• Texture Variety: Add some chopped mushrooms or diced bell peppers for additional texture and taste.
• Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy texture, substitute half of the milk with additional heavy cream.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
• Gnocchi Cooking Tip: Cook gnocchi separately according to package instructions before adding them to the soup for best results.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Complementing your Chicken Gnocchi Soup with side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some great options.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing addition.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty side dish.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a crunchy contrast.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters bring a delightful crunch and flavor pairing.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits filled with cheese and garlic are perfect for dipping into the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the celery and carrots properly can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté until they are soft to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: If you boil gnocchi for too long, they can become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and boil for just 4-5 minutes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient can vary in flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed for a balanced taste.
• Using cold chicken broth: Adding cold broth can slow down cooking. Make sure your broth is at room temperature or warm before adding it to the pot.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow your soup to simmer gently to build rich flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

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

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 as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup better than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This version features fresh ingredients and customizable flavors, providing a homemade touch that elevates each bite beyond what you might find at Olive Garden.

Can I use different proteins in Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with cooked turkey or lamb for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

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

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or even switch out the spinach for kale, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean protein, making it a hearty yet wholesome meal option.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth along with additional veggies for a delicious vegetarian version of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Conclusion

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. With options for customization, you can make it your own by adding different proteins or vegetables. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness any time you’re craving something warm and satisfying!

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