Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced; 1 stalk celery, chopped; ½ white onion, diced; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; ½ cup shredded carrots; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon thyme; 16 ounces potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups half and half; 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 450 g (1 lb) russet potatoes; 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you have ever found yourself craving that warm, creamy, and hearty bowl from your favorite Italian restaurant, then you are absolutely going to love this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It perfectly captures all the comforting flavors you adore—tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a dreamy creamy broth—ready to come together in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a chilly day or you just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl that’s simple enough for any home cook to master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small yellow gnocchi pieces spread out on a sheet of brown parchment paper dusted with white flour. Some gnocchi are fully covered with flour, while others show their smooth yellow color with fork marks on top. To the left, there is a white bowl partly filled with flour next to a silver fork resting on the white marbled surface, which is also lightly dusted with flour. The gnocchi are arranged loosely in a scattered way, creating a natural and soft look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the perfect balance of flavors in this soup is easier than you think, thanks to some straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the soup’s incredible depth, texture, and freshness, so let’s talk about what you’ll gather before diving in.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, cooked and diced for tender bites throughout.
Celery stalk: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh, slightly peppery undertone.
White onion: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed to translucent perfection.
Minced garlic: Packs an aromatic punch essential for that cozy Italian flavor.
Shredded carrots: Brightens the soup with color and a hint of natural sweetness.
Olive oil: The base fat that brings all the sautéed veggies together.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the broth flavorful but not overpowering or salty.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all other ingredients.
Dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
Potato gnocchi: The signature soft dumplings—store-bought for ease or homemade for a touch of love.
Half and half: The creamy heart of the soup that makes every spoonful luscious.
Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a healthy boost while gently wilting into the broth.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Gnocchi (Optional)

While using store-bought gnocchi is a time-saver, making your own is a rewarding process that elevates the soup. Start by boiling your russet potatoes whole and unpeeled until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender. Immediately peeling and mashing them while warm ensures a silky dumpling dough, which you then bring together with flour, salt, and an egg. Roll, cut, and shape each gnocchi piece to have those charming fork indentations—they’re perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Grab a large pot and warm olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped celery, diced onion, garlic, and shredded carrots. Sauté gently until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables release their natural sweetness—this step is crucial as it sets the foundation for your flavorful broth.

Step 3: Build the Broth with Chicken and Seasonings

Add your diced cooked chicken to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme to bring aromatic warmth. Bring this mixture to a boil, letting the flavors meld beautifully as the chicken infuses the broth with savory goodness.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Gently stir in your potato gnocchi—whether homemade or store-bought—letting them boil in the broth for about 3 to 4 minutes. Then lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes so the gnocchi soak up the flavors and the soup thickens slightly with creamy magic.

Step 5: Add Creaminess and Spinach

Finally, stir in the half and half and the fresh spinach. The spinach wilts quickly, adding a pop of vibrant green and a nutritious kick. Let everything heat through for 1 to 2 minutes, then taste and adjust your seasoning. Your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is ready to warm your soul.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

A dark pot filled with creamy white soup that has visible pieces of white chicken, soft gnocchi, thin carrot slices, light green celery, and dark green leafy vegetables all mixed in. A metal ladle in the pot lifts a portion of the soup, showing a close-up of the ingredients. The soup surface is smooth with small specks of black pepper and herbs. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Topping this soup makes all the difference in elevating the eating experience. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few torn basil leaves add a lovely contrast. For a touch of indulgence, a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes bring a bit of warmth and shine to the surface.

Side Dishes

Serving this soup alongside a crusty Italian bread or garlic-herb focaccia lets you soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. Simple green salads or roasted vegetables complement the richness beautifully, keeping your meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress friends or family, consider serving your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in small, rustic bread bowls or individual ceramic soup crocks. Garnish with colorful microgreens or an herb sprig for that restaurant flair. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon to round out the experience with elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your soup cools completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick weekday lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, though the texture of fresh spinach and gnocchi might change slightly. To freeze, place it in freezer-safe containers or bags and keep it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power. Stir often to prevent the cream from separating and to keep the soup perfectly smooth and creamy, just like the first time.

FAQs

Can I use other types of gnocchi for this soup?

Absolutely! Potato gnocchi is traditional for this soup, but you can try sweet potato or pumpkin gnocchi for a fun twist. Just keep in mind cooking times can vary slightly depending on the type.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the half and half with coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative. The texture might be a little different, but it’ll still be deliciously comforting.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely. Some chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or even peas work well and add extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them with the initial vegetables to soften before adding broth.

How can I make the soup richer?

For an ultra-rich soup, swap 1 cup of the half and half for heavy cream. This will add a velvety texture and deeper creaminess, perfect for those extra cozy nights.

Do I have to cook the chicken before adding it?

Yes, cooking the chicken beforehand ensures that it is tender and safe to eat. You can poach, bake, or pan-sear it before dicing and adding it to the soup.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like savoring a bowl of homemade comfort, and this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe truly brings the warm, creamy flavors of a beloved restaurant dish right into your home kitchen. From the tender chicken to the buttery gnocchi and vibrant spinach, every spoonful is a delicious reminder that comfort food can be both simple and spectacular. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite soup to share with loved ones all year round.