Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’ve ever craved the comforting, creamy taste of Olive Garden’s famous chicken gnocchi soup but wished you could make it right at home, then the Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with savory chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, flavorful broth, this dish brings all the warmth and satisfaction of the classic, with a homemade twist that truly makes it better. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe delivers deliciousness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: This soup perfectly balances creamy and hearty for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together effortlessly for a rich, restaurant-quality soup at home.
• Versatile and customizable: You can adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs without losing its signature flavor.
• Perfect for any season: Whether it’s chilly winter nights or a light spring dinner, this soup fits all occasions.
• Cost-effective delight: Save money by making a large batch that freezes well and tastes fresh every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that bring vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and comforting warmth to every spoonful. Each component plays an important role, making this recipe as delicious as it is approachable.

• Chicken breast: Tender, cooked chicken provides the hearty protein base for the soup.
• Potato gnocchi: These soft dumplings soak up the flavors and add a delightful, chewy texture.
• Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a mild earthiness that balances the creamy broth.
• Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful, savory foundation for the soup’s base.
• Heavy cream: Brings richness and that signature creamy consistency without being too heavy.
• Garlic and onions: The aromatic duo infuses depth and warmth into the broth.
• Butter and olive oil: Used to sauté veggies, adding layers of flavor and silkiness.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the whole soup together with classic Mediterranean notes.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but highly recommended for an extra savory punch and creamy finish.

Variations for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

One of the joys of cooking this soup is how easily it adapts to your preferences or what’s in the fridge. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it truly your own.

• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with extra mushrooms or beans for protein.
• Low-carb twist: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi or omit entirely for a lighter soup.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
• Extra veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for more color and crunch.

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the chicken

Start by seasoning chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper, then cook them thoroughly in a skillet until golden and no longer pink inside. Once done, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté aromatics

Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning and allow the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add gnocchi and spinach

Carefully add potato gnocchi to the simmering broth and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are tender. Then, stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook just until wilted.

Step 5: Finish with cream and chicken

Lower the heat, and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to create a luscious, creamy soup. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and warm through without boiling.

Step 6: Season and serve

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if needed. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Cook gnocchi carefully: Avoid overcooking to keep gnocchi soft but not mushy.
• Use homemade broth: If possible, homemade chicken broth adds depth and richness that store-bought lacks.
• Fresh herbs elevate taste: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an herbal lift.
• Don’t boil after adding cream: High heat can cause the cream to curdle, so keep it on low once added.
• Shred chicken finely: Helps disperse protein evenly for a better eating experience.

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or even a drizzle of olive oil to enhance flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy soup with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun twist, or ladle into small cups for a charming appetizer at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes well without the cream; consider freezing the broth, chicken, and gnocchi separately, then adding cream when reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works well—just add a few extra minutes to cooking time until they float and are tender.

Is this soup very creamy or light?

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy yet balanced, offering richness without feeling too heavy, thanks to the perfect blend of broth and cream.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, by replacing chicken with mushrooms or beans and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, you can make a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I prevent the soup from curdling?

To avoid curdling, add cream at low heat and avoid boiling the soup once cream has been incorporated.

Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics beforehand, then combine all ingredients (except cream) in the slow cooker and add cream near the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup captures that crave-worthy comfort food feeling while giving you full control over ingredients and freshness. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi, it’s no surprise this recipe has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere. Try making it yourself—you just might find it’s your new go-to for soup nights that impress and satisfy every time.

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