If you have been craving a heartwarming, creamy soup that beats out the restaurant version, this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh veggies, and a rich, velvety broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The flavors meld beautifully, bringing comfort and sophistication together, making it a perfect meal for chilly nights or anytime you want a little soulful indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple and wholesome ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender chicken to the fresh spinach, every component is essential to creating that perfect balance.
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): Provides lean protein and a meaty base for the soup’s heartiness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté veggies, adding depth and aroma.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness when cooked, enriching the soup’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory, fragrant goodness to the broth.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Lends a luxurious creaminess that makes the soup feel indulgent.
- 2 cups whole milk: Balances the cream, keeping the texture smooth and silky.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Provides sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Offers a refreshing crunch and aromatic undertone.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Infuses herbal notes that complement the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds brightness and an earthy touch to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste): Brings a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi: The star ingredient that offers a soft, pillow-like bite.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained): Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish): Provides a salty, nutty finish, perfect for sprinkling on top.
How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to get that perfect sear. Season your chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then cook them for about 7-8 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are fully cooked inside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest so it stays juicy, then shred it with two forks for that tender texture you want in the soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
Using the same pot (to capture all those delicious browned bits), toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and gives off its sweet, mellow aroma. Then, stir in the diced carrots and celery along with the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook this medley for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the veggies soften and the herbs release their flavorful oils.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and whole milk, stirring everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing all the flavors to marry beautifully and the soup to start thickening slightly. Watch carefully to make sure it doesn’t boil vigorously, preserving the creamy texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
Next, add the package of potato gnocchi straight into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top and have that satisfying, pillowy softness that gnocchi is famous for.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it evenly throughout the soup. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts perfectly, adding a fresh, bright green color and a mild earthy flavor that lightens the richness of the broth.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you love a little extra cheese and saltiness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve it immediately while warm for a comforting meal that feels just like homemade love in a bowl.
How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra touch of luxury, top your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese that melts ever so slightly, adding a nutty flavor burst. Fresh cracked black pepper or a few torn basil leaves also make gorgeous garnishes that elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. A simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness, making your meal more rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in charming bowls accompanied by a sprinkle of microgreens or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. For a cozy gathering, offer mini bread bowls filled with the soup—it’s not only delightful to eat but also an impressive way to bring friends and family to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Just be sure to consume within 3-4 days to keep it fresh and safe.
Freezing
This soup freezes very well, but for best texture, it’s recommended to freeze before adding the spinach, which can become mushy. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating. Add the spinach fresh during reheating to retain its vibrant color and slightly crisp texture. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain that silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that still delivers great flavor and texture. Just shred it and add it in the final step just as you would with the freshly cooked chicken.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or another plant-based milk, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly. For creaminess, adding a bit of cashew cream can help mimic the richness.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
You certainly can! Just make sure to thaw the spinach fully and squeeze out excess water before adding it to prevent watering down the soup. It will still add that lovely green freshness.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If you want a thicker consistency, you can create a slurry by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the simmering soup. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?
Potato gnocchi, like the kind from the refrigerated section or frozen, works perfectly. Fresh gnocchi is ideal for the pillowy texture that complements this creamy soup beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat while being incredibly easy to make at home. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients that bring so much joy with every spoonful. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite soup to serve on cozy nights or when you want to impress friends and family with something heartwarming and delicious.
Print
Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup offers a creamy, comforting bowl filled with tender chicken, fluffy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a flavorful blend of vegetables and herbs. A delightful homemade version of the classic restaurant favorite, perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
Dairy and Gnocchi
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook each side for 7-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Once cool, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Prepare the Soup Base: In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add diced carrots, celery, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and whole milk. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Gnocchi: Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float to the top, indicating they are cooked through.
- Finish the Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add fresh spinach, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting soup.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- You can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove.
- Use fresh gnocchi for the best texture, but frozen will work as well—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
