If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version captures all the creamy, comforting flavors of the restaurant favorite—without the wait time or the extra cost. Made with tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality comfort food to your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Better Than Takeout – Fresher ingredients, more chicken, and no artificial additives.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Customizable – Easily adapt to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb.
Rich & Creamy – A luscious, velvety broth with the perfect balance of flavors.

The Popularity of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Originating from Italy, gnocchi has been a staple in comfort food for centuries. This classic soup, popularized by Olive Garden, combines soft gnocchi dumplings with a creamy chicken broth, making it one of the most beloved items on their menu. If you love Italian cuisine, you might enjoy learning more about Italian cuisine and how soups play a significant role in traditional dishes.

For those who enjoy recreating restaurant dishes at home, exploring Olive Garden copycat recipes can be a fun way to bring your favorite flavors to your dinner table. This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just one of many delicious options you can master in your own kitchen!

Let’s dive into why this homemade version is even better than the restaurant’s!

Why This Recipe is Better Than Olive Garden’s

Many people love Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup, but making it at home takes it to the next level. This copycat version not only matches the restaurant’s flavor but also gives you full control over ingredients, freshness, and portion sizes.

Fresher, Higher-Quality Ingredients

When you make this soup at home, you use fresh, high-quality ingredients—no preservatives or artificial flavors. You can choose organic chicken, fresh vegetables, and high-quality gnocchi for a truly homemade touch. Store-bought soups often contain excess sodium and additives, while this version is all about pure, wholesome ingredients.

More Chicken, More Gnocchi, More Flavor

If you’ve ever had Olive Garden’s version, you might have noticed that sometimes the ratio of chicken to broth is a little low. With this homemade recipe, you can add as much tender shredded chicken and pillowy gnocchi as you want. Plus, you can adjust the seasonings to match your personal taste, creating a richer, more flavorful broth.

Want to try making your own gnocchi from scratch? Check out this homemade gnocchi recipe to elevate your soup even further!

Customizable to Your Dietary Needs

One of the biggest benefits of making this at home is the ability to modify the recipe:

Gluten-Free? Swap regular gnocchi for gluten-free gnocchi.
Dairy-Free? Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Low-Carb/Keto? Replace the gnocchi with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

No Waiting, No Limits

At Olive Garden, you might have to wait for a table, and refills aren’t unlimited when you order soup à la carte. At home, you can enjoy unlimited servings of your homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup, anytime you crave it!

This homemade version not only saves you money but also ensures you get the best, freshest bowl of soup every time. Now, let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients that make this dish so delicious!

Essential Ingredients & Their Roles

Creating the perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving the rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor that makes this dish a favorite.

1. Chicken – The Protein Base

The heart of this soup is the tender shredded chicken, which adds both texture and flavor. You have several options:

Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient choice that enhances the soup’s depth.
Grilled or Poached Chicken – Offers a leaner and cleaner taste.
Leftover Chicken – A great way to reduce food waste while making a delicious meal.

For a breakdown of why chicken soup is such a staple in many cultures, check out this guide on chicken soup.

2. Gnocchi – The Signature Ingredient

Gnocchi are soft, pillowy dumplings traditionally made from potatoes. They soak up the flavors of the broth while providing a satisfying chewiness.

Store-Bought Gnocchi – A quick and easy option.
Homemade Gnocchi – If you want an authentic touch, try making homemade gnocchi.

For those looking for gluten-free options, many brands offer gluten-free gnocchi made with alternative flours like rice or cauliflower.

3. Vegetables – Flavor & Nutrition Boosters

This soup is packed with nutrient-rich veggies that enhance both taste and texture:

Onion & Garlic – The aromatic base for depth of flavor.
Celery & Carrots – Classic soup staples that add sweetness and crunch.
Spinach – A leafy green that provides color, vitamins, and a fresh contrast to the creamy broth.

4. Broth & Dairy – The Key to Creaminess

The broth and dairy components make this soup rich and comforting:

Chicken Broth – Provides a flavorful foundation; use homemade broth for the best taste.
Heavy Cream – Adds luscious creaminess; substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.

If you’re curious about the different types of cream used in cooking, you can explore this article on cream.

5. Seasonings – Bringing Everything Together

The right combination of seasonings enhances the flavor profile of the soup:

Italian Seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme for an Italian-inspired taste.
Thyme & Black Pepper – Add warmth and a slight peppery bite.
Salt – Essential for balancing all the flavors.

For an extra kick, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

6. Optional Additions – Customizing Your Soup

Want to add your own twist? Try these optional ingredients:

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty richness.
Bacon Bits – A smoky crunch for extra depth.
Mushrooms – A great vegetarian-friendly addition.

With all these carefully selected ingredients, you’re ready to make a bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s bursting with flavor. Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step cooking process!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s walk through the simple process of making this delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Follow these steps to create a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup in under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 1 small diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup chopped celery, and ½ cup shredded carrots.
Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Stir in 3 cups of cooked shredded chicken and 4 cups of chicken broth.
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of thyme.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—do not boil, as high heat can cause the dairy to separate.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of homemade chicken soup, check out this detailed chicken soup guide.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Add 1 pound of potato gnocchi to the pot.
Let it cook for 3–5 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top—this means they’re done!
Stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi while ensuring they absorb the soup’s flavors.

For a homemade touch, you can make your own gnocchi using this easy homemade gnocchi recipe.

Step 4: Add the Spinach & Final Touches

Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach.
Let the spinach wilt for 1–2 minutes without overcooking.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional) for extra richness.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t worry! In the next section, we’ll explore some great variations and substitutions to customize your soup.

Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about making Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is the flexibility to customize it to fit your dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a dairy-free alternative, or a way to spice things up, these variations will help you make the soup your own.

1. Dairy-Free Version

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this creamy soup with a few simple swaps:

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a rich texture.
Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the vegetables.
Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Coconut milk adds a slight sweetness, while cashew cream offers a more neutral taste that mimics traditional dairy cream.

2. Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version of this soup, try these modifications:

Swap regular potato gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi, which can be found in many grocery stores.
If you can’t find gluten-free gnocchi, use cubed potatoes, cauliflower florets, or even white beans for a similar hearty texture.

Looking for more ways to make comfort food gluten-free? Check out these healthy soup substitutes for creative ingredient swaps.

3. Low-Carb/Keto Adaptation

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, traditional gnocchi might not be the best option. Instead, try these alternatives:

Use cauliflower gnocchi, zucchini noodles, or cubed chicken in place of regular gnocchi.
Increase the chicken and vegetables to make the soup heartier without adding extra carbs.
Replace heavy cream with cream cheese or unsweetened almond milk for a lower-carb creamy texture.

4. Spicy Version

For those who love a little heat, spice up your soup with these additions:

Add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while simmering.
Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce for extra warmth.
Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for a bolder, spicier flavor.

5. Vegetarian Alternative

Want a meat-free version of this cozy soup? It’s easy to adapt!

Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or white beans for a hearty texture.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Increase the spinach and carrots for extra nutrition and color.

For more inspiration on vegetarian comfort foods, explore these comfort food recipes with delicious, plant-based options.

With these easy variations, you can make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup fit your specific dietary preferences while keeping all the delicious flavors intact. Up next, we’ll cover the best side dishes and pairings to serve with this creamy, comforting soup!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

A warm bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can elevate your meal even further. Whether you want something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, here are the best options to serve alongside this creamy soup.

1. Best Side Dishes

Pair your soup with these delicious sides to create a well-rounded meal:

Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Homemade Breadsticks – Just like Olive Garden’s, these soft, chewy breadsticks are a great complement.
Caesar Salad – A classic side that balances the richness of the soup with a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a nutritious, colorful touch.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A comforting option for an extra indulgent meal.

2. Beverage Pairings

The right drink can enhance the flavors of this soup. Consider these options:

White Wine – A light, crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy texture.
Herbal Tea – A soothing chamomile or mint tea balances the richness.
Sparkling Water with Lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic choice that cleanses the palate.

3. How to Present It Beautifully

Make your soup look as good as it tastes with these presentation tips:

Serve it in a rustic bread bowl for a restaurant-style experience.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Add a dash of cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes for a gourmet touch.

For more ideas on how to style your meals, check out these easy soup recipes for inspiration on plating and presentation.

With the perfect side dish and drink pairing, your Chicken Gnocchi Soup will feel like a complete, satisfying meal. Now, let’s talk about how to store leftovers and meal prep this dish

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Making a big batch of Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a great way to have delicious, comforting meals ready throughout the week. However, since this is a creamy soup with gnocchi, proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Here’s how to store, reheat, and prep your soup for later.

1. How to Store Leftovers

To keep your soup fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the gnocchi may become slightly mushy, and the cream may separate. For best results, freeze the broth and vegetables separately, then add fresh gnocchi and cream when reheating.

2. Reheating Instructions

To keep your soup creamy and smooth when reheating, follow these methods:

Stovetop (Best Method): Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the texture if needed.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent the cream from separating.
Slow Cooker: If reheating a large batch, warm it in a slow cooker on the low setting for about 1 hour.

3. Make-Ahead Tips

Want to prep this soup ahead of time? Here’s how:

Chop the Vegetables in Advance: Dice the onions, carrots, and celery ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Cook and Shred the Chicken: Prepare the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Prepare the Broth Base: Make the soup base (without the cream and gnocchi) and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cream and gnocchi fresh for the best texture.

If you’re looking for more meal prep ideas, explore healthy soup substitutes for additional storage-friendly recipes.

By following these storage and meal prep tips, you can always have a comforting bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to enjoy without losing its creamy texture and delicious flavor. Up next, let’s answer some common questions about making this soup at home!

FAQs: Answering Common Questions

Many people have questions about making the perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Below, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and customize your recipe.

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! Both methods work well and can save time.

Slow Cooker:
- Sauté the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots in a pan, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in the gnocchi and spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Add cream just before serving.
Instant Pot:
- Use the Sauté function to cook the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots.
- Add the chicken, broth, and seasonings, then seal the lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 10 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure, add gnocchi, and simmer until they float. Stir in the cream and spinach at the end.

2. How do I keep the gnocchi from getting too soft?

Don’t overcook the gnocchi—they only need 3–5 minutes to cook. Once they float to the top, they’re done.
If storing leftovers, consider cooking fresh gnocchi separately and adding them to reheated soup to maintain their texture.
For more tips on working with gnocchi, check out this gnocchi guide.

3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the soup won’t be as rich and creamy. If you prefer a lighter version:

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly less rich texture.
If using regular milk, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the soup.

4. How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup turns out too thin, try these thickening methods:

Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup. Simmer until thickened.
Flour Roux: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter, whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour, and cook for a minute before stirring it into the soup.
Blended Soup Base: Blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in for a naturally thicker texture.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but with modifications. Cream-based soups can separate when frozen, and gnocchi may become too soft. To freeze successfully:

Freeze only the broth, chicken, and vegetables—leave out the gnocchi and cream.
When reheating, add fresh gnocchi and cream for the best texture.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Love Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Now you can make it at home! This creamy, comforting soup is packed with tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, all in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy night in, this easy one-pot recipe is even better than the restaurant version—fresher, more customizable, and made with love! Whether you’re craving a warm bowl on a chilly evening or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup carrots, shredded
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp thyme
1 lb potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add diced onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened.

Stir in shredded chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top.

Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes.

Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own for a homemade touch.
Gnocchi Tips: Avoid overcooking! Gnocchi is done when it floats to the top—usually in 3–5 minutes.
Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For best texture, add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
Freezing Tip: If freezing, leave out the cream and gnocchi, then add them fresh when reheating.
Add Extra Flavor: Try topping with Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick!