Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup inspired by Olive Garden is the kind of cozy meal that warms everyone from the inside out. Each spoonful delivers savory chicken balanced by soft gnocchi and a medley of vegetables all nestled in a rich broth. When I need comfort on chilly evenings or want something that feels restaurant special with little effort this soup never fails.

The very first time I tried a version of this soup I was so surprised at how satisfying the gnocchi made it. It quickly became a Sunday night ritual in our house and now my kids ask for the “pillowy soup” anytime the weather dips.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: provides a savory base and helps soften the aromatics Choose a good quality extra virgin for best flavor
• Onion: diced and used to build sweetness and body Look for firm unblemished onions
• Garlic: minced for aromatic depth Use fresh garlic for the best flavor kick
• Carrots: provide color and a gentle sweetness Pick ones that feel heavy for their size
• Celery: adds a light herbal crunch Freshly cut celery is ideal as it stays crisp
• Dried thyme: brings a woodsy herbal note Go for whole dried leaves when possible and crumble just before adding
• Dried basil: offers subtle earthiness Check for fragrant green leaves in your bottle for potency
• Chicken broth: forms the hearty soup base Opt for low sodium for more control over seasoning
• Cooked chicken: shredded absorbs the creamy broth well Use freshly cooked or quality rotisserie chicken
• Gnocchi: delivers signature pillowy bites Choose shelf stable or fresh gnocchi and avoid any that feel hard or cracked
• Fresh spinach: adds color and antioxidants Bright green unbruised leaves are best
• Heavy cream: creates that restaurant-style velvet finish Choose real heavy cream for richness
• Salt: brings out the flavors Add gradually and taste as you go
• Black pepper: offers gentle heat Use freshly cracked for maximum aroma
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: adds a salty finishing touch Always opt for fresh Parm and grate just before use

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat Aromatics:

In a large pot heat olive oil over medium heat Add diced onion carrots and celery Cook together for about five minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent Stir occasionally so nothing sticks or browns too much

Add Garlic and Herbs:

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant about one minute Add dried thyme and basil and stir for another thirty seconds to awaken their flavors

Build the Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth slowly scraping the bottom of the pot to bring up any cooked bits Bring the pot to a boil over medium high heat letting all the flavors combine

Simmer with Chicken and Gnocchi:

Lower the heat to a simmer then add shredded cooked chicken and gnocchi Simmer for roughly five to seven minutes The gnocchi is ready when it floats to the top and is soft through

Finish with Spinach and Cream:

Stir in fresh spinach leaves and heavy cream making sure to blend everything gently Let cook for two to three more minutes until the spinach has wilted and the soup is creamy

Season and Serve:

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired

Save

My favorite ingredient has to be the gnocchi. There is something so satisfying about biting into their soft centers surrounded by creamy broth. I will never forget the look on my son’s face when he fished out his first gnocchi and declared this soup the best dinner ever.

Storage Tips

This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store it in a sealed container for best freshness Remember to reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap rotisserie turkey for chicken or use gluten free gnocchi Try kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach if needed Adjust seasonings to taste with Italian herbs or a pinch of crushed red pepper for a kick

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm crusty bread perfect for soaking up the creamy broth Add a crisp green salad if you want some crunch or top each bowl with more Parmesan for extra richness

A Hint of Italian Tradition

This dish is inspired by Italian comfort food blending pillowy gnocchi with a creamy soup base Homemade gnocchi is a special treat but store bought works wonderfully to recreate that Olive Garden experience at home

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Shred or chop it before adding to the soup.

→ Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, substitute traditional gnocchi with a gluten-free version, available at most grocery stores.

→ How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker texture, reduce the chicken broth slightly or add more heavy cream while simmering.

→ What vegetables work well in this dish?

Classic additions are carrots, celery, and fresh spinach. Kale or zucchini can be added for variation.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over gentle heat.