Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is one of those dishes that instantly brings comfort with every spoonful. Known for its creamy texture, tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables, this soup has become a fan favorite for good reason. It strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness, making it ideal for cozy dinners, cold evenings, or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying.
While Olive Garden serves this soup as part of its classic menu, the good news is that you can easily recreate a restaurant-style version at home using simple ingredients and straightforward steps—no professional kitchen required.
What Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Chicken gnocchi soup is a creamy Italian-inspired soup made with:
- Cooked chicken
- Potato gnocchi (small, soft dumplings)
- Vegetables like carrots, celery, onion, and spinach
- A lightly seasoned cream-based broth
Unlike traditional noodle soups, gnocchi adds a unique texture—soft, pillowy, and filling—making the soup feel hearty without being overly heavy.
Why This Soup Is So Popular
There are several reasons why chicken gnocchi soup continues to be a favorite:
- Comforting and filling without being too rich
- Creamy but balanced, thanks to vegetables and herbs
- Easy to customize for taste, diet, or portion size
- Perfect as a meal or starter, paired with bread or salad
It’s the kind of soup that feels indulgent yet familiar, which is why so many people love it.
Ingredients Overview
This homemade version uses everyday ingredients that come together beautifully.
Protein
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded or diced)
Vegetables
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Celery (sliced)
- Carrots (diced or shredded)
- Garlic (minced)
- Fresh spinach
Gnocchi & Dairy
- Potato gnocchi (store-bought or fresh)
- Heavy cream or half & half
- Butter
Liquids & Seasoning
- Chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- Salt and black pepper
- Italian seasoning or dried herbs
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
How to Make Olive Garden-Style Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Cook the chicken until tender using boiling, pan-searing, or baking. Once cooked, shred or dice it and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer gently so the flavors blend together.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cream
Stir in the cooked chicken, then slowly add cream or half & half. Reduce the heat and let the soup thicken slightly.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Add gnocchi to the soup and cook for a few minutes until they float and become tender.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach
Add fresh spinach and stir until just wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top if desired.
Slow Cooker Method (Optional)
This soup can also be made in a slow cooker for added convenience:
- Add chicken, broth, vegetables, garlic, and seasoning to the slow cooker
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot
- Add cream and gnocchi during the last 30 minutes
- Stir in spinach just before serving
Tips for the Best Flavor
- Add gnocchi near the end to avoid overcooking
- Use fresh spinach for better texture and color
- Choose low-sodium broth to control salt levels
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded
What to Serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Crusty artisan bread
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of broth if thickened
- Freezing: Not recommended due to cream and gnocchi texture changes
Final Thoughts
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a timeless comfort dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a flavorful broth, it’s a recipe that works for family dinners, quiet nights in, or anytime you want something warm and comforting.
