Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Introduction

Creamy, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food.

It’s a rich blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a savory cream-based broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this homemade version surpasses the restaurant classic, offering unparalleled freshness and the satisfaction of making it from scratch.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Gnocchi, a traditional Italian dumpling made primarily of potatoes, has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The incorporation of gnocchi into soups reflects the Italian love for hearty, family-style meals that bring comfort and nourishment. This soup gained widespread popularity in American cuisine thanks to restaurants like Olive Garden, where it became a fan favorite. By recreating this recipe at home, you embrace the Italian tradition of gathering loved ones around a warm, delicious meal.

Ingredients Quantity

Soup Base:

2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large carrot, shredded or diced

Protein and Vegetables:

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Broth and Cream:

4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half

Gnocchi:

1 pound (16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

Seasoning:

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Thickening Agent (Optional):

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Optional Additions

Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces for added crunch and smokiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top before serving for extra richness.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a slight kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly and retains its soft, fluffy texture better than frozen or dried.
Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks fast—usually in 2-3 minutes. Remove it as soon as it floats to avoid a mushy texture.
Shred Chicken Ahead of Time: Pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie) saves time and absorbs the soup flavors well.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, use the flour-water mixture to thicken.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in chicken broth and stir in shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Season the Soup: Add thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Incorporate Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring to create a creamy base. If you want a thicker soup, add the flour-water mixture at this stage.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the soup. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface.
Add Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and let it wilt, about 2 minutes.
Serve Hot: Remove from heat, ladle into bowls, and garnish with Parmesan cheese or parsley if desired.

Description

This soup is an indulgent combination of creamy textures and savory flavors. The pillowy gnocchi provides a satisfying bite, while the tender chicken and fresh spinach create a perfect balance. The aromatic herbs bring depth to the broth, making every spoonful comforting and delicious.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 350
Protein: 18g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 750mg

Conclusion

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is proof that restaurant-quality meals can be achieved at home. It’s easy to make, endlessly comforting, and customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with family, this soup is sure to be a hit.

Recommendation

Pair this soup with a warm, crusty loaf of bread or soft dinner rolls for a complete meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy soup perfectly, and a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water adds a touch of elegance.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this soup feels indulgent, you can make it more health-conscious by swapping heavy cream with low-fat milk or almond milk and using whole-grain gnocchi. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini or peas for more nutrients. Enjoy the richness without guilt, knowing it’s made with wholesome ingredients!