If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely been swept away by their famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This creamy, comforting dish has a loyal following for good reason – it’s a satisfying, hearty bowl of warmth that feels like a big hug in a bowl.
The tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and flavorful broth all come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal on a cold evening or a dish to serve at family gatherings, this soup is always a hit.
While it’s easy to enjoy this soup at Olive Garden, there’s something truly special about making it at home. It allows you to enjoy the same rich, creamy soup with the added bonus of customizing it to suit your preferences.
Plus, you get to enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen as it simmers away. In this recipe blog, we’ll walk you through how to make Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup from scratch, bringing the restaurant’s signature dish right into your home.
What Makes Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup So Special?
The beauty of Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. At the core of this dish is the gnocchi – small, pillowy pieces of potato dough that soak up the creamy broth while maintaining a tender bite.
Then there’s the perfectly seasoned chicken, which adds a rich, savory element to each spoonful. The fresh spinach introduces a burst of color and an earthy flavor that balances the creaminess of the soup.
The base of the soup is what truly elevates it: a creamy, velvety mixture of chicken stock, heavy cream, and a carefully chosen blend of seasonings.
This rich base ties everything together, creating a soup that feels decadent without being overwhelming. The combination of carrots, celery, and onion adds subtle sweetness and depth, while the spinach provides a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth.
Another standout feature of this soup is its versatility. While the restaurant’s version is delicious as-is, making it at home allows you to tweak the recipe to your tastes, whether you prefer extra chicken, a lighter broth, or more greens. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You Should Try Making This Soup at Home
There are several reasons why making Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup in your own kitchen is worth the effort, and each one makes this recipe even more enticing.
First, it’s an opportunity to enjoy this beloved soup at any time, without waiting for a special trip to the restaurant.
The convenience of being able to create this dish from the comfort of your home means you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl whenever the craving strikes.
When you make this soup at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can use the freshest produce, adjust the seasonings to your liking, and even opt for healthier alternatives if that’s your goal.
Whether you choose to add more vegetables or make it lighter by reducing the cream, the flexibility of a homemade version ensures that you can tailor the dish to your exact preferences.
Making the soup from scratch is also a fantastic way to save money. Ordering from Olive Garden can be expensive, especially if you’re feeding a family.
But with a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the same delicious soup for a fraction of the cost. Plus, there’s the added satisfaction of knowing that you made it yourself, from start to finish.
Lastly, the process of preparing this soup is a rewarding experience. The comforting aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables, the smooth texture of the creamy broth, and the excitement of finally tasting a homemade version of your favorite dish make the effort worth every minute.
This soup is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a recipe that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen – perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week.
You have not enough Humanizer words left. Upgrade your Surfer plan.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To recreate the beloved Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home, you’ll need a selection of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create the rich, creamy base and tender texture that make this soup so special.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup Base:
- Chicken Breast (or Rotisserie Chicken): 2 large boneless, skinless breasts or 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, which will form the base of your soup.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream for that signature creamy texture.
- Milk: 1 cup of whole milk, which helps balance the richness of the heavy cream.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, for sautéing the vegetables and adding flavor to the broth.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves of minced garlic for a fragrant depth of flavor.
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Carrots: 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds for texture and color.
- Celery: 2 stalks of celery, diced for crunch and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped for its sweetness and aromatic base.
- Spinach: 4 cups of fresh spinach, washed and chopped to wilt into the soup for a burst of freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the soup.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, which adds a well-rounded herby flavor.
For the Gnocchi:
- Gnocchi: 1 pound of store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi. The soft, pillowy texture is what makes this soup so indulgent.
Optional Garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, salty finish.
- Chopped Parsley: For a fresh green garnish that adds color and a light flavor contrast.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to begin preparing your Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
This process is easy to follow, and in just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality soup ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by cooking the chicken if you’re using fresh breasts. You can sauté the chicken in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. If you prefer to save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead, which adds even more flavor to the soup.
While the chicken cooks, prepare your vegetables. Peel and slice the carrots, dice the celery, and chop the onion into small pieces. Set them aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they are soft and slightly translucent.
The vegetables should release their natural sweetness, making your base even more flavorful. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
To the sautéed vegetables, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring all the vegetables are coated and the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Simmer
Once your soup base is simmering and the vegetables are tender, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the soup, stirring gently.
Let the gnocchi cook in the broth for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top. This means they are cooked and ready to absorb the creamy flavors of the soup.
Step 5: Add the Chicken and Spinach
Next, add the shredded chicken and spinach to the pot. Stir the soup to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt into the broth.
Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through. The spinach will soften but still retain its vibrant green color.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer more herbs, you can add a little more Italian seasoning to deepen the flavor. Once everything is perfectly seasoned, remove the pot from the heat.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor and color. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for the ultimate comforting meal.
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with savory goodness. Enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a special dish for family and friends!
Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Making the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup requires just a few extra steps to ensure the flavors are balanced and the textures are spot on.
Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game:
1. Stir Consistently to Prevent Clumping
When adding the gnocchi to the soup, it’s important to stir gently but consistently. Gnocchi can sometimes stick together, so keep the soup moving to ensure the dumplings cook evenly and don’t clump.
Stirring will also help prevent any gnocchi from sticking to the bottom of the pot, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
2. Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
Gnocchi cook very quickly – they typically only need 3 to 4 minutes in the simmering soup. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Once they float to the top, that’s your cue that they’re done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, ensuring they retain that perfect, pillowy texture.
3. Adjust the Creaminess
If you prefer a thicker, creamier soup, you can add a little extra heavy cream or reduce the amount of broth. On the other hand, if you’d like a lighter version, you can use more chicken broth and less cream. The balance of cream and broth is entirely up to your personal taste, so feel free to adjust it as you go.
4. Let the Soup Simmer
Letting the soup simmer for a while (about 15 minutes after adding the broth and cream) allows the flavors to develop and meld together.
The vegetables soften, the chicken infuses the broth with savory goodness, and the gnocchi absorbs the creamy base. If you’re in a rush, you can speed up the process, but a gentle simmer will result in the most flavorful soup.
5. Season to Taste
Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving. The flavor of this dish really comes to life when it’s properly seasoned. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the creaminess and ensure the soup has the right balance of savory notes. You can also adjust the Italian seasoning and garlic to suit your preference.
6. Use Fresh Spinach for the Best Flavor
Fresh spinach is key to this soup’s flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen spinach, as it can release too much liquid and affect the consistency of the broth. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and retains a fresh, vibrant flavor that’s a perfect complement to the creamy base.
How to Store and Reheat Your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers of this delicious soup, here’s how to store and reheat it properly to maintain its creamy texture and delicious taste.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, be aware that gnocchi may become a little softer once reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without the spinach and add it when reheating.
Reheating the Soup
- On the Stovetop: To reheat on the stovetop, pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the soup heats evenly. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add a little extra chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- In the Microwave: For a quicker option, transfer individual portions of soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval. Be sure to stir the soup well to evenly distribute the heat. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream and mix well before reheating.
Avoid Reheating Multiple Times
To preserve the best texture and flavor, it’s best not to reheat the soup more than once. Each time it’s reheated, the gnocchi will become softer, and the soup may lose some of its creamy consistency. If you’re reheating a large batch, only reheat the portion you intend to serve.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, your leftover Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup will taste almost as fresh as when you first made it. Enjoy your delicious meal any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time! In fact, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to deepen and meld together even more.
Just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and add a bit of extra broth or cream if it’s thickened too much.
2. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or refrigerated gnocchi for this recipe to achieve the best texture. Frozen gnocchi can work, but it might not have the same soft, pillowy consistency once cooked in the soup.
If you do use frozen gnocchi, make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup.
3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Chicken Gnocchi Soup by using gluten-free gnocchi. There are several store-bought gluten-free gnocchi options available, or you can make your own.
Additionally, make sure to check the chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
You can freeze this soup, but be mindful that the gnocchi may soften during the reheating process. For the best results, freeze the soup without the spinach and add it in when reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup slowly on the stove and add fresh spinach just before serving.
5. Can I use a different type of greens in place of spinach?
Yes, you can use other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach. Keep in mind that these greens have a more robust flavor and might take a little longer to cook, so you’ll want to adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender.
Conclusion
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings the flavors of a beloved restaurant classic right into your kitchen.
Its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant spinach come together to create a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With easy-to-follow instructions, simple ingredients, and the flexibility to customize to your taste, making this soup at home is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Plus, you’ll have plenty of leftovers to savor for days to come, with tips for storing and reheating the soup to keep it fresh.
So, why not give this Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup a try? It’s the perfect way to indulge in a comforting meal any time you want, with the added bonus of having full control over the ingredients and flavors.
Enjoy the delicious, creamy warmth of this dish and share it with friends and family for a memorable meal!
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven – 1 (for cooking the soup)
- Cutting board – 1 (for chopping vegetables and chicken)
- Knife – 1 (for dicing vegetables and slicing chicken)
- Measuring spoons – 1 set (for seasoning)
- Measuring cups – 1 set (for liquid ingredients)
- Wooden spoon – 1 (for stirring)
- Colander or strainer – 1 (for washing spinach)
- Can opener – 1 (if using canned chicken broth)
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach washed and chopped
- 1 pound potato gnocchi store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan optional, for garnish
- Chopped parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces with two forks. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
- Prepare the Soup Base: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the soup and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Add the shredded chicken and spinach to the pot. Stir to combine and let the spinach wilt, about 3-4 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Italian seasoning if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Gnocchi Choice: You can use store-bought gnocchi, or if you have the time and inclination, make your own fresh gnocchi for a more personalized touch.
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver if you want to skip cooking the chicken from scratch. Just shred it and add it at the same step.
- Cream Substitution: For a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a combination of more milk and less cream.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to adjust the vegetable proportions to suit your taste or try adding extra greens like kale for a heartier option.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well without the spinach and gnocchi. You can freeze the base and add fresh gnocchi and spinach when reheating.
