Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Name: Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 cup shredded carrots; 3 cups chicken broth; 3 cups milk; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 16 ounces gnocchi

Posted on October 3, 2025

Main Dishes

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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 gatherings, this dish stands out with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients that will warm your heart.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a rich and comforting base that you’ll crave.
Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or unexpected guests.
Family-Friendly: Packed with tender chicken and gnocchi, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later. It reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools in your kitchen can make all the difference when preparing this delightful soup. Here are some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Ladle
Cutting board
Chef’s knife

Why These Tools Matter

Large pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly without spilling.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while combining ingredients.
Measuring cups: Ensure precision in ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

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How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Melt Butter and Heat Oil

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the butter is melted:
1. Add in the chopped celery.
2. Cook for about 5–10 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot:
1. Stir well.
2. Let cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Carrots and Seasonings

Add shredded carrots along with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning:
1. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.

Step 5: Thicken the Mixture

Sprinkle flour into the pot:
1. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 6: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth:
1. Stir well to break up any clumps.
2. Then add milk followed by heavy cream; stir until smooth.

Step 7: Mix in Chicken and Spinach

Toss in the frozen spinach along with cooked shredded chicken:
1. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 8: Bring to a Boil

Increase heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 9: Cook Gnocchi

Carefully add gnocchi to the boiling soup:
1. Allow it to boil for about 4–5 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot or warm in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Bread

Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery sticks add a delicious flavor contrast and are great for sopping up every last drop.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and color.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A handful of cheese brings extra creaminess and a salty kick.

Accompanied by a Salad

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the richness of the soup.
Mixed Green Salad: Light greens with a vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance.

How to Perfect Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To elevate your soup-making skills, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried options.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Control the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat level; a gentle simmer is ideal for letting flavors meld without burning.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like red pepper flakes or fresh basil for an extra punch of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring a refreshing touch.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an irresistible appetizer.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil adds color and nutrition to your meal.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese and garlic are perfect for soaking up soup.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a nutritious complement to the rich soup.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to help you perfect your dish:

Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold broth or cream can affect the cooking process. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
Not sautéing properly: Skipping the sautéing step can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you cook the vegetables until soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Adding gnocchi too early: If you add gnocchi too soon, they may become mushy. Wait until the soup is boiling before gently adding them in.
Overcooking spinach: Frozen spinach should only be added towards the end of cooking. Overcooking it can lead to a loss of vibrant color and nutrients.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste varies, so don’t forget to taste your soup as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Skipping the resting time: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together. Don’t rush straight to serving!

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Freezing Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Freeze in individual portions or family-sized containers.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
Consume within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat for 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This version has fresher ingredients and customizable options, allowing you to adjust flavors to suit your preferences perfectly.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or shredded beef for a different twist on this classic recipe.

How do I make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while adding more vegetables for substance.

Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Yes! Homemade gnocchi can elevate this dish even further. Just ensure they are cooked separately before adding them to the soup.

Conclusion

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for customization. From adjusting spices to incorporating seasonal veggies, you can easily make this dish your own. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting bowl that’s sure to impress!