There’s nothing quite like enjoying Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Olive Garden, but when the craving hits and going out isn’t an option, this delicious copycat recipe brings those same signature flavors right into your kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers the iconic taste your family already loves.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tastes just like the restaurant version
Quick and easy to prepare
Uses simple, affordable ingredients
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Easy to customize to your tastes
Fun fact: Olive Garden added this soup in the 1990s, and it quickly became a fan-favorite staple.

Simple Ingredients

Here’s what makes this soup rich, creamy, and comforting:

Chicken: Shredded or diced for tender bites.
Gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that make the soup hearty.
Carrots, Celery & Onion: Classic aromatics for flavor depth.
Garlic: Brings warmth and richness.
Chicken Broth: Forms the savory base.
Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious creamy texture.
Spinach: Adds freshness and color.

Servings & Time

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

What Is Needed

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: Parmesan, thyme, or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat butter and olive oil in a Dutch oven. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stir in Gnocchi

Add gnocchi and cook 3–4 minutes until soft and floating.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer on low for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish

Stir in chopped spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.

Top Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add cream only after lowering the heat to prevent curdling.
Fresh gnocchi cooks faster than shelf-stable varieties.
Want it thicker? Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
Add Parmesan for a richer flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the gnocchi it becomes mushy.
Boiling the cream, which can cause separation.
Using low-sodium broth without adjusting seasoning.
Adding spinach too early it loses color.
Using raw chicken unless adjusting the cook time.

How to Customize This Recipe

Sweeter: Add a splash of cream or a pinch of sugar.
Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Tangier: Finish with a squeeze of lemon.
Thicker/Richer: Add more cream or a slurry of cornstarch + broth.
Healthier: Use half-and-half or milk and add extra veggies.

Extra Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with:

Breadsticks
Caesar salad
Garlic knots
Roasted veggies
Parmesan-crusted chicken

Ingredient Substitutions

Half-and-half for heavy cream: Lighter but still creamy.
Turkey instead of chicken: Great for leftovers.
Kale instead of spinach: Heartier greens option.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream, vegetable broth, and vegan gnocchi; swap chicken for white beans.
Healthier Version: Use milk, more veggies, and whole-wheat gnocchi.

Short History of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden introduced Chicken Gnocchi soup as part of its signature soup lineup, inspired by traditional Italian dumpling soups. The combination of creamy broth, chicken, and soft gnocchi became an instant classic among diners, especially alongside their famous breadsticks.

Recommended Equipment

Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups & spoons
Chef’s knife

Make-Ahead Tips

Prep all vegetables in advance.
Cook chicken ahead of time or use rotisserie.
Soup can be made 1 day early add gnocchi fresh for best texture.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave on low heat.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Garlic bread
House salad
Bruschetta
Roasted potatoes
Antipasto platter

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

This recipe is inspired by the iconic Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. It captures the same core flavors, textures, and aroma using simple ingredients while remaining budget-friendly, quick, and perfect for recreating restaurant-quality meals at home.

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