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 dinners or as a comforting meal on chilly days, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich taste and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This soup bursts with a blend of herbs and spices that elevate every spoonful.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this hearty dish in about 40 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delightful combination of chicken and gnocchi.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite bread for a complete experience.
• Comforting Texture: The creamy base combined with tender gnocchi creates a warm embrace in every bowl.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful soup.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing room for stirring without splatter.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Measuring cups/spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfecting the flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

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

For the Base

• 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

For the Creamy Broth

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

For the Protein and Veggies

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken meat (2 legs and 2 thighs, cooked)
• 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 add olive oil. Stir until well combined.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the butter is melted, add in chopped celery. Cook for about 5–10 minutes until soft. Then, stir in minced garlic and let it cook for an additional two minutes.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Seasonings

Next, introduce shredded carrots along with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in flour gradually while stirring continuously. Cook the mixture for about two minutes until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Broth and Milk

Pour in chicken broth while stirring to break up any clumps formed by the flour mixture. After that, add milk and heavy cream; stir until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Chicken

Toss in the frozen chopped spinach along with cooked shredded chicken. Mix well to ensure even distribution throughout the soup.

Step 7: Bring to Boil

Increase heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil while continuing to stir occasionally.

Step 8: Cook Gnocchi

Carefully add gnocchi into the boiling soup. Let them cook for about 4–5 minutes or until tender.

Step 9: Serve

Once ready, ladle into bowls while hot or warm. 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 all about enhancing the experience. This hearty soup can be complemented with various sides and garnishes that elevate its flavors and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• Lemon Wedge: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Offer warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious broth.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Offer Crackers

• Herbed Crackers: Provide herbed crackers as a crunchy side option that complements the soup’s creamy texture.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To achieve an exceptional bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference. This ensures your soup has just the right amount of flavor.
• Quality ingredients: Use high-quality chicken broth and fresh ingredients when possible. The better the ingredients, the tastier your soup will be.
• Cook gnocchi separately: For firmer gnocchi, consider cooking them separately and adding them just before serving. This prevents them from becoming too soft in the soup.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
• Make it a day ahead: Prepare your soup a day in advance; letting it sit overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that pairs well with the creamy soup.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil brings fresh flavors that complement your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add earthiness and are simple to prepare alongside your soup.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for dipping into your bowl of gnocchi soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Serve colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, veggies, or meat for a nutritious side dish.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins are delightful alongside savory soups and add a comforting touch.
7. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create an appealing appetizer option.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm dip served with tortilla chips or bread rounds is perfect for sharing while enjoying your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté: Not cooking the celery and garlic properly can lead to a soup lacking depth of flavor. Always take the time to sauté until soft and aromatic.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process may leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and add salt and pepper gradually.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can result in a mushy texture. Add them towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on them for a perfect bite.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can negatively impact the flavor of your soup. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for best results.
• Neglecting storage tips: Not storing leftovers correctly can lead to spoilage or loss of flavor. Follow proper storage techniques to keep your soup fresh longer.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item: Store in an airtight container.
• item: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• item: Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• item: Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• item: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• item: Leave space in containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup so special?

This recipe uses high-quality ingredients and fresh flavors that elevate it beyond typical versions, ensuring every spoonful is rich and satisfying.

Can I customize my Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, or even switch up the protein with turkey or lamb for different flavors.

How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?

Gnocchi are typically done when they float to the top of the soup after about 4-5 minutes of boiling. They should be tender but not mushy.

How long does Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. We encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different ingredients for your own unique twist!

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