Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Easy & Creamy Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s even better than what you’d get at Olive Garden? This homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect one-pot meal for chilly evenings, lazy weekends, or whenever you want something satisfying yet easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken
• Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and spinach
• Aromatics: Onion and garlic
• Chicken broth: For a rich base
• Heavy cream: For a creamy texture
• Flour & butter: Helps thicken the soup
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and Italian seasoning

Ingredient Substitutions

• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-free: Choose gluten-free gnocchi and substitute flour with cornstarch.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. If using raw chicken, cook it in a pot with a little olive oil until golden brown.
2. Shred or dice the cooked chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery; cook until soft.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Make the Soup Base

1. Dust the vegetables with flour and stir to coat evenly.
2. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi & Chicken

1. Add gnocchi to the soup and cook until tender.
2. Stir in shredded chicken.

Step 5: Finish with Cream & Spinach

1. Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream.
2. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve warm with bread or salad.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi. They cook fast and can become mushy if left in too long.
• Use fresh herbs for a flavor boost.
• If the soup gets too thick, add a bit more broth or cream.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Mushroom Delight: Swap chicken for mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower gnocchi instead of regular gnocchi.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 2 months (without gnocchi – add fresh when reheating).
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth if needed.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Side Bread: Garlic bread, breadsticks, or a warm baguette.
• Salads: Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad.
• Beverages: White wine (like Chardonnay) or herbal tea.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you love about comfort food—rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes! Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store it properly and reheat before serving.

3. How can I make it thicker?

Add more flour or reduce the broth slightly for a creamier consistency.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! It’s a great time-saving option.

5. What’s the best way to reheat without curdling the cream?

Use low heat and stir frequently to keep the texture smooth.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup—better than Olive Garden! 🍲✨