Before we dive into the creamy world of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, let’s set the stage. This dish is more than just another soup on the menu — it’s a warm, cozy hug in a bowl. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a silky broth loaded with veggies and herbs, it’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more. In this article, you’ll get the full scoop — from what makes it so special to how you can whip it up in your own kitchen. By the end, you’ll be ladling out bowls of pure comfort like a pro
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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Creamy, Comforting Copycat Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy and comforting soup inspired by Olive Garden, made with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, spinach, carrots, and a rich broth.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in chicken and chicken broth, bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and add half-and-half, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Add gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they float to the surface.
- Stir in spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use evaporated milk instead of half-and-half.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Main Ingredients in Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
At the heart of any great recipe lies its ingredients, and Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role, from building the flavor base to creating that unmistakable creamy texture.
Chicken – The Savory Foundation
The chicken is the backbone of this soup. Traditionally, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are cooked until tender, then shredded into bite-sized pieces. Some home cooks prefer chicken thighs for a richer, juicier flavor. Either way, this protein adds heartiness and turns the soup from a side dish into a full meal.
Gnocchi – The Pillowy Star
Potato gnocchi are soft, chewy dumplings that soak up the soup’s creamy broth like little flavor sponges. You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make them from scratch — resources like King Arthur Baking’s gnocchi recipe can guide you through the homemade route for an authentic touch.
Vegetables – Freshness and Balance
Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic mirepoix base, delivering sweetness, crunch, and aroma. Fresh spinach is added at the end for a burst of color, nutrients, and a slightly earthy note that complements the creamy broth.
The Creamy Base – Where Comfort Lives
This soup’s signature richness comes from half-and-half or heavy cream combined with chicken broth. Butter and a bit of flour create a smooth roux, thickening the broth without making it heavy. The result is a silky texture that coats every gnocchi and piece of chicken.
Seasonings – The Flavor Boosters
Dried thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg work in harmony to elevate the flavors. While subtle, these seasonings ensure the soup has depth without overpowering its delicate balance.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Home
Making your own Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think. With a little prep and some patience, you can have a pot of creamy, hearty soup ready in under an hour.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until tender. You can poach them in chicken broth or sauté them in olive oil for added flavor. Once cooked, shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt butter with a splash of olive oil. Add finely diced onions, carrots, and celery, then cook until they’re soft and fragrant. Minced garlic goes in next — just a quick stir until it’s aromatic.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Sprinkle in all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir well, creating a light roux. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer gently so it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Chicken
Toss in your potato gnocchi and the shredded chicken. Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi (like the ones from King Arthur Baking’s recipe) will take the dish to another level.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cream
Pour in half-and-half (or heavy cream for extra richness) and stir in fresh spinach leaves. Let the soup simmer for another few minutes until the gnocchi are tender and the spinach wilts.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. For a subtle warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a little fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately with warm breadsticks or salad.
Popular Copycat Versions of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
One of the best things about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is. You can stick to the classic formula or give it a twist to fit your dietary needs, pantry staples, or even your mood.
Dairy-Free Chicken Gnocchi Soup
If you’re avoiding dairy but still want that creamy texture, swap the half-and-half for full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened almond milk and cashew cream blend. You’ll still get a rich, velvety broth without the dairy heaviness.
Low-Carb Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Traditional gnocchi are potato-based, but you can replace them with cauliflower gnocchi or even small cubes of roasted turnip for a lighter, low-carb twist. The soup still feels indulgent but cuts back on starchy carbs.
Deluxe Restaurant-Style Version
Want to really wow your guests? Make your own gnocchi from scratch and use a high-quality chicken stock made from simmering chicken bones, veggies, and herbs. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving for that extra restaurant-level touch.
Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup
Simply leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Bulk it up with cannellini beans, mushrooms, or zucchini for heartiness.
With just a few tweaks, you can turn the classic creamy chicken gnocchi soup into something that feels brand-new — without losing that signature comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthy?
While Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is undeniably comforting, it’s on the richer side because of its creamy base and gnocchi. You can make it lighter at home by using milk instead of cream, adding more vegetables, and swapping traditional gnocchi for a whole-wheat or cauliflower version.
What brand of gnocchi does Olive Garden use?
Olive Garden hasn’t publicly confirmed the exact brand they use, but most copycat recipes work wonderfully with high-quality store-bought potato gnocchi. If you want the freshest flavor, homemade gnocchi — like those from King Arthur Baking’s potato gnocchi recipe — are a fantastic choice.
Can I freeze chicken gnocchi soup?
Yes, but keep in mind the texture of gnocchi can change after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and adding it fresh when reheating to maintain the right bite.
How long does chicken gnocchi soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, your creamy chicken gnocchi soup will stay fresh for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. Just wait to add the gnocchi until you’re reheating, so they stay tender rather than soaking up all the broth.
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