Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups half-and-half; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 16 oz potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. This creamy, flavorful soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, all swimming in a rich broth that's nothing short of perfection.

I remember the first time I tried this soup at Olive Garden—it was love at first bite. Now, I've created a homemade version that's just as delicious, and best of all, it's incredibly easy to make. Ready to bring a little restaurant magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Get ready to add this recipe to your rotation of family favorites. This soup delivers all the deliciousness of the restaurant version with none of the hassle.

First off, it’s so quick and easy to prepare. In under an hour, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like it took all day to make. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without too much effort.

This recipe is also a one-pot wonder. Fewer dishes mean more time to relax and enjoy your meal—always a win in my book.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. With simple, wholesome ingredients, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden for a fraction of the cost.

Lastly, this soup is endlessly customizable. Whether you want to make it vegetarian or swap out the chicken for another protein, the possibilities are nearly endless.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the creamy, dreamy dish we all love.

The chicken is the star of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully too.

Gnocchi is the heart of this recipe, adding a comforting, pillowy texture. Store-bought gnocchi is perfect for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi will take it to the next level.

For the vegetables, celery, carrots, and spinach add a balance of freshness and nutrition. Be sure to dice the celery and carrots finely so they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup.

The creamy base comes from heavy cream and chicken broth. Together, they create the perfect rich and velvety consistency that makes this soup so irresistible. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk instead.

Finally, don’t forget the seasonings. A combination of thyme, garlic, and a touch of nutmeg adds depth and warmth to the soup. A pinch of salt and pepper brings everything together.

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this delicious soup at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of comfort in no time.

Start by sautéing diced onions, celery, and carrots in a large pot with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook them over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.

Next, add your chicken pieces to the pot. If you’re using raw chicken, cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. For precooked chicken, simply heat it through.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the gnocchi and let them cook in the broth until they float to the surface, usually around 3-4 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add a generous handful of fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup. This step adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

Finish with a sprinkle of thyme, a dash of nutmeg, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storage Options

This soup stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer the soup to an airtight container once it cools to room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When reheating, warm the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own.

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a heartier texture.

If you’re a fan of seafood, swap the chicken for shrimp or chunks of white fish. They cook quickly and pair wonderfully with the creamy broth.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’s a fun way to give this comforting soup a bold twist.

If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free gnocchi in your grocery store. They work just as well and ensure everyone can enjoy this dish.

Finally, for a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan cheese.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to whip up your own bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!