There’s something magical about a warm bowl of creamy soup on a cold winter evening. The Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup has become a favorite across America for its rich, comforting flavor and simplicity. This homemade version captures that same restaurant-quality taste while remaining easy enough for any home cook to prepare. Whether you’re planning cozy winter suppers, kid-friendly dinners, or just looking for a quick pre-cooked chicken recipe, this soup will warm hearts and fill plates.
The secret to a perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in the balance of creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, and soft potato gnocchi. Together, they create a velvety texture and savory taste that makes this dish ideal for weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend meal. Let’s dive into how to make it step by step, with a few helpful tips along the way.
Table of Contents
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A creamy Olive Garden-style chicken gnocchi soup loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and soft potato gnocchi perfect for cozy winter suppers or family dinners.
Ingredients
Olive oil or butter – 2 tbsp
Chopped onion – 1 cup
Celery – ½ cup
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
All-purpose flour – ¼ cup
Chicken broth – 4 cups
Half and half or heavy cream – 2 cups
Cooked shredded chicken – 2 cups
Potato gnocchi – 16 oz
Shredded carrots – ½ cup
Fresh spinach – 1 cup
Salt and pepper – to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot. Add onion, celery, and garlic; sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
2. Sprinkle in flour and stir well to create a roux.
3. Gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Simmer 10 minutes.
4. Stir in cream and shredded chicken, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 4 minutes.
6. Mix in carrots and spinach; simmer until spinach wilts.
7. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm with crusty bread.
Notes
Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.
For extra flavor, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Italian
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this restaurant-style soup at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped onion | 1 cup |
| Celery, diced | ½ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Half and half or heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
| Packaged potato gnocchi | 16 oz |
| Shredded carrots | ½ cup |
| Fresh spinach | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about five minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to create a light roux. This helps thicken the soup base.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the half and half or heavy cream, then add the shredded chicken. Let the soup warm gently over low heat.
- Add the potato gnocchi directly to the pot. Cook for about 4 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top.
- Mix in the shredded carrots and spinach. Continue simmering for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm with crusty bread.
Helpful Tips
- Pre-cooked chicken saves time: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for a quick meal.
- For thicker soup: Add an extra tablespoon of flour during the roux stage or simmer longer without the lid.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut milk or oat milk for cream for a lighter, lactose-free alternative.
- Add flavor: Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan or nutmeg before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.
Conclusion
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide shows just how easy it is to bring restaurant comfort home. It’s rich, creamy, and customizable for all ages and seasons. Whether you’re looking for winter supper ideas, simple pre-cooked chicken recipes, or hearty soup with gnocchi, this dish delivers warmth in every spoonful. Try it this week for a cozy meal everyone will love.
FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this soup?
Yes! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. It shortens cooking time and keeps the soup flavorful.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze it before adding the gnocchi and spinach for best texture. Add those fresh when reheating.
What can I serve with chicken gnocchi soup?
Pair it with warm breadsticks, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete Olive Garden-style meal.
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Absolutely. Homemade potato gnocchi adds a rustic touch, but packaged gnocchi works just as well for convenience.