There’s something about Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that just sticks with you. I still remember the first time I tried it—it was creamy, rich, and loaded with soft gnocchi and tender chicken in a thick, soul-soothing broth. Honestly, it felt like the kind of soup you’d want to wrap yourself in on a cold day.
That experience inspired me to recreate it at home—and not just copy it, but actually make a version that’s better than Olive Garden gnocchi soup. With fresh ingredients, easy steps, and a few insider tricks, this Olive Garden style chicken gnocchi soup recipe is the one I now make on repeat. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a total beginner, this one’s for you.
What Makes This Chicken Gnocchi Soup So Popular?
A Signature Olive Garden Favorite
Of all the soups on Olive Garden’s menu, this one is hands down a fan favorite. It’s easy to see why—it delivers everything you want in a bowl: a creamy texture from heavy cream, soft pillows of gnocchi, shredded chicken that melts in your mouth, and a touch of spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
When people talk about the best Olive Garden soups to make at home, this one is usually at the top. It’s warm, hearty, filling, and somehow comforting in the most nostalgic way. The gnocchi gives it a chewy bite you don’t find in other soups, and the creamy broth has that familiar flavor Olive Garden fans love.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Version
This is the copycat recipe for Olive Garden soup lovers who want that same restaurant-quality taste at home without the wait—or the bill. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your dinner rotation:
- Made-from-scratch chicken gnocchi soup with fresh ingredients
- Beginner-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights
- A true restaurant-style chicken gnocchi soup copy
- Balanced richness with real depth of flavor
- Feels indulgent, but it’s surprisingly simple
Whether you’re trying to recreate Olive Garden soups in your kitchen or just craving something cozy, this is one you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Pantry + Fresh Essentials)
When it comes to building a truly rich and creamy chicken soup with gnocchi, you need the right combination of pantry staples and fresh components. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need.
Ingredient Breakdown Table
| Ingredient | Purpose | Tips & Notes |
| Cooked Chicken (shredded or diced) | Adds heartiness and protein | Use rotisserie chicken, grilled breast, or leftovers |
| Gnocchi (potato dumplings) | Soft, pillowy texture | Use fresh, shelf-stable, or homemade gnocchi |
| Carrots, Celery, Onion | Base for flavor (mirepoix) | Sautéed for depth in the broth |
| Garlic | Aromatic, essential for depth | Fresh is best, pre-minced works in a pinch |
| Chicken Broth | Base liquid for the soup | Use low-sodium chicken broth for flavor control |
| Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream | Makes it creamy and indulgent | For extra rich soup, use full heavy cream |
| Flour | Light thickening agent | Helps achieve that thick and smooth chicken gnocchi soup base |
| Butter + Olive Oil | For sautéing and building flavor | Use both for richness and balance |
| Baby Spinach | Adds color, texture, and nutrition | Stir in at the end for best texture |
| Dried Basil, Thyme, Salt, Pepper | Herbs and seasoning | Use lightly, then adjust to taste |
| Optional: Nutmeg | Adds subtle warmth | Tiny pinch goes a long way |
Chicken Options: Rotisserie, Fresh or Pre-cooked
Let’s be honest—shortcut chicken gnocchi soup with rotisserie chicken is one of the best kitchen hacks ever. It’s quick, flavorful, and makes cleanup a breeze.
You’ve got options:
- Rotisserie Chicken – My personal favorite for this recipe. Already seasoned, moist, and easy to shred. The flavor boost is noticeable.
- Freshly Cooked Chicken Breast – Great if you prefer leaner meat or want to season it yourself.
- Pre-cooked or Leftover Chicken – Works beautifully. Just make sure it’s not too dry.
This also makes it a single pot meal for family dinner, especially when paired with salad or breadsticks.
Choosing the Right Gnocchi: Fresh, Shelf-Stable, or Homemade
Gnocchi is the heart of this dish. You want those little potato dumplings to be soft, chewy, and soak up all the flavors of the broth.
Your choices:
- Shelf-Stable Gnocchi – Great pantry item. Just boil directly in the soup.
- Fresh Gnocchi – Found in the refrigerated section. Cooks quickly and has slightly more tender texture.
- Homemade Gnocchi – If you’re feeling adventurous. It takes time but delivers that elevated touch.
Whichever you choose, this recipe gives you that classic chicken gnocchi soup with creamy broth flavor—every time.
Secret Ingredients That Make It Taste Like Olive Garden
What sets this version apart from others online? These secrets bring the Italian flavors in homemade gnocchi soup to life:
- A Pinch of Nutmeg – It’s subtle, but it adds a warmth that mimics Olive Garden’s.
- Use Half-and-Half with a Splash of Cream – For a smoother, balanced finish.
- Butter + Olive Oil Combo – Elevates the base and adds restaurant-style richness.
Want to make it even more authentic? Use a splash of dry white wine when sautéing the veggies. It’s a small step, but it brings depth and acidity that rounds out the soup beautifully.
Top Kitchen Gadgets You Need for Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1. Heavy-Bottomed Stockpot
Ideal for simmering soup evenly without burning or sticking.
2. Sharp Chef’s Knife
For chopping chicken, vegetables, and herbs precisely.
3. Cutting Board
A sturdy, easy-to-clean surface for all your chopping needs.
4. Immersion Blender
Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for creamy texture without extra cleanup.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ensure accurate measurement of broth, cream, and seasoning.
6. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring soup gently without scratching your pot.
7. Ladle
Makes serving soup easy and mess-free.
8. Colander or Strainer
Useful for rinsing gnocchi or draining cooked chicken if needed.
9. Digital Meat Thermometer
Check chicken is cooked perfectly and safe to eat.
Pro Tip: These kitchen essentials are available on Amazon and other popular stores with fast shipping. Equip your kitchen with these tools to make authentic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup effortlessly!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Home
This is a quick 30-minute chicken soup idea, and yes—it’s a dump-and-go crockpot gnocchi soup if you want it to be. But here’s how I usually make it stovetop-style for max flavor in minimum time.
Sauté the Mirepoix Base
Start with your sauteed veggies in creamy gnocchi soup—this is the foundation. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot. Toss in chopped onions, diced celery, and shredded carrots.
Cook until tender, then add fresh garlic. The smell alone lets you know you’re on the right track.
This step builds that elevated homemade chicken soup version flavor that people think takes hours—but really, it’s just done right.
Create the Creamy Broth
Next, sprinkle in flour. This helps thicken the soup naturally—no cornstarch needed.
Slowly pour in your chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the cream or half-and-half. You’re looking for that thick and smooth chicken gnocchi soup base.
Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs (thyme and basil are key). Taste as you go. This isn’t just any soup—this is how you make soup that tastes like Olive Garden.
Add Gnocchi and Chicken to Finish
Now add your gnocchi and cooked chicken. Whether you’re using leftover chicken in gnocchi soup or rotisserie, it all works beautifully.
Let it simmer gently. The gnocchi will puff slightly and float when it’s done—about 5–7 minutes for most store-bought brands. This creates that comforting, chewy bite that makes this soup legendary.
Final Touches: Spinach and Seasoning
Right before serving, stir in your baby spinach. It softens in under a minute and adds color, nutrients, and texture. This is what gives you that healthy chicken gnocchi soup with spinach twist without sacrificing flavor.
Final seasoning check: Add more pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, maybe a drizzle of cream if you want it extra rich.
Pair with breadsticks or salad to go with soup, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels straight from the restaurant—but entirely your own.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Bowl Every Time
You can follow the steps exactly, but it’s the little tricks that truly make this the ultimate gnocchi soup recipe online. These aren’t just suggestions—they’re lessons I’ve picked up through trial, error, and a few too many mushy gnocchi attempts. Let me save you from those.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
Gnocchi cooks fast—like, really fast. Whether you’re using shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi, you need to watch it closely once it’s in the pot.
Tips to get it right:
- Simmer gently—avoid boiling hard.
- Most gnocchi floats when it’s ready (usually within 3–5 minutes).
- Overcooking leads to mush, and it’ll thicken your soup more than you want.
Remember: fast gnocchi soup for busy nights works great, but only if you nail the texture.
Use Fresh Spinach at the End
A big mistake I made early on? Adding spinach too soon.
Spinach isn’t just a garnish here—it gives the soup color, nutrients, and that earthy balance. But it can’t handle a long simmer.
- Stir in baby spinach right before serving.
- It should wilt gently in the hot soup—no need to cook it further.
- This keeps the leaves bright and tender, not slimy.
If you’re going for a nutritious gnocchi soup with spinach and chicken, fresh baby spinach added at the end is non-negotiable.
How to Thicken Without Ruining Flavor
A lot of homemade soups go wrong with thickeners that turn the broth gummy or dull the flavor. Here’s how to keep that creamy broth smooth and flavorful:
- Use flour: Add it early after the veggies for a roux-like base.
- Skip cornstarch or slurry unless you’re in a pinch.
- Let it simmer longer uncovered if it’s too thin—it’ll naturally reduce.
Want it extra creamy? Swap in a splash of heavy cream, not more flour. It keeps the texture luscious and enhances the dairy-based gnocchi soup with chicken profile Olive Garden fans love.
Can You Make This Chicken Gnocchi Soup in a Crock Pot or Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Whether you need a dump-and-go crockpot gnocchi soup or a quick weeknight pressure cooker version, this recipe adapts well. Below are both versions with easy-to-follow instructions.
Slow Cooker Instructions
The slow cooker Olive Garden gnocchi soup recipe is a dream if you want dinner to make itself.
How to make it:
- Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, garlic, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
- Stir in raw or pre-cooked chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes:
- Add gnocchi
- Stir in half-and-half or cream
- Toss in spinach just before serving
- Add gnocchi
It’s the perfect crockpot version of Olive Garden soup for those nights when you want rich flavor with zero fuss.
Pressure Cooker Instructions
Need a quick 30-minute chicken soup idea? The Instant Pot’s got your back.
Pressure Cooker Steps:
- Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrots using the SAUTE function.
- Stir in flour for 1 minute to help with thickening.
- Add broth, seasonings, and chicken. Lock the lid.
- Pressure cook on High for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Switch back to SAUTE:
- Add gnocchi and cream
- Stir in spinach at the end
- Add gnocchi and cream
This version is super convenient for weeknight chicken gnocchi soup, especially if you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken.
What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a few sides really brings that restaurant-quality soup made at home experience full circle. Here are some ideas straight from my own kitchen.
Classic Olive Garden Breadsticks
Of course. You knew this was coming.
- Soft, buttery, garlicky—these are a must with gnocchi soup.
- Brush store-bought breadsticks with melted butter and garlic powder, then warm in the oven.
- Or better yet, make your own from scratch with yeast, flour, sugar, and olive oil.
Best sides for creamy chicken gnocchi soup always start here.
Fresh Italian Salad Pairing Ideas
Soup + salad is Olive Garden’s most iconic combo. Try these:
- Romaine + red onion + olives + pepperoncini + parmesan with a creamy Italian or vinaigrette.
- Add grilled chicken or croutons if you want to bulk it up.
- Keep it light and zesty to contrast the richness of the soup.
A perfect option if you’re recreating a Tuscan chicken gnocchi soup recipe vibe at home.
Light Pasta or Side Options
If you’re feeding a crowd or want a full spread, try these lighter sides:
- Lemon butter angel hair – light, bright, and quick.
- Garlic roasted veggies – simple and healthy.
- Tomato bruschetta – balances the creamy broth with acidity.
These options turn your soup night into a full Italian-style gnocchi soup with chicken meal. And they still let the soup stay the star of the show.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers (Fridge & Freezer)
Once your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup has cooled, store it in an airtight container:
- In the fridge: Store for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
- In the freezer: Freeze in portioned, airtight containers for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Pro Tip: If freezing, consider leaving out the gnocchi until reheating. Gnocchi can become mushy when frozen and thawed.
Reheating Tips Without Losing Creaminess
To maintain the rich, creamy texture:
- Stovetop method: Reheat slowly over medium-low heat. Stir often and add a splash of milk or broth if it looks too thick.
- Microwave: Use medium power, reheating in 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
- Avoid boiling—this can cause separation and ruin the soup’s velvety finish.
More Soup Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Olive Garden-style Chicken Gnocchi Soup, try these other fan-favorite copycat recipes:
Copycat Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana
Loaded with Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes in a creamy broth, Zuppa Toscana is another restaurant-style classic that’s easy to make at home.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Rich, cheesy, and packed with fresh broccoli—this soup rivals anything you’ve had at Panera and is ready in under 30 minutes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
All the flavors of a comforting chicken pot pie in soup form. Let the slow cooker do the work for a hearty, cozy dinner.
Easy Italian Wedding Soup
A traditional favorite with savory meatballs, leafy greens, and tender pasta pearls swimming in a clear broth. A perfect starter or light meal.
Nutrition Facts and Serving Size Guide
Estimated Calories Per Serving
Here’s a rough estimate for each serving (1.5 cups) of homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount |
| Calories | 320 – 400 kcal |
| Protein | 18g – 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g – 30g |
| Fat | 18g – 22g |
| Fiber | 2g – 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg – 1000mg |
Healthier Substitution Tips
Want a lighter or diet-friendly version? Try these:
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Use cooked turkey or tofu instead of chicken for lower fat or vegetarian needs.
- Add extra spinach, kale, or zucchini noodles to increase fiber and nutrients.
- Skip the butter and sauté veggies in olive oil instead.
Final Thoughts:
In my honest experience—and I’ve tried several versions—this recipe hits the closest to the real Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
- The balance of creamy broth, pillowy gnocchi, and savory chicken is spot on.
- It’s family-approved and comes together faster than ordering takeout.
- Plus, with fresh ingredients and smart tweaks, it’s healthier and more customizable than the restaurant version.
Whether you’re an Olive Garden regular or just love homemade comfort food, this soup deserves a place in your regular meal rotation.
FAQs
Can I Make It Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free?
Yes, with a few modifications:
Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or oat cream instead of heavy cream. Make a roux with olive oil and flour substitutes like rice flour.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free gnocchi (available in most health food sections) and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.
Can I Use Turkey or Tofu Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely. Both work well depending on your needs:
Turkey (cooked and shredded) is a great post-holiday use for leftovers.
Tofu (firm, diced, and pan-seared) can mimic the texture of chicken for vegetarians.
Just season well to maintain that savory flavor profile.
How Long Does Homemade Gnocchi Last in Soup?
Homemade gnocchi stays tender in the soup for about 1–2 days before it starts to break down. If you’re making soup ahead of time:
Add the gnocchi just before serving, or
Store the gnocchi separately and combine when reheating to keep its texture intact.
