Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

Creamy, comforting, and loaded with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, this Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen. The silky broth, flecked with herbs, makes every spoonful cozy, satisfying, and perfectly balanced.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by the iconic Olive Garden version that everyone loves. After experimenting at home with chicken, fresh gnocchi, and a creamy broth, I realized that with the right balance of vegetables, herbs, and cream, you could replicate the magic of the restaurant in your own kitchen. It quickly became a go-to comfort meal, especially on chilly evenings.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The concept of chicken and gnocchi soup is Italian-inspired, taking cues from traditional gnocchi dishes and creamy broths found in Tuscany. Olive Garden popularized this comforting soup in America, pairing tender gnocchi and chicken with a rich, lightly seasoned creamy base. Over the years, home cooks have adapted it, making it easier and faster while retaining that indulgent flavor.

Why You’ll Love Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a main dish, or alongside a salad and breadsticks.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.

Customizable: Add extra vegetables, herbs, or spice to your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, comforting, and universally loved by adults and kids alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared ahead and gently reheated without losing flavor.

Great for Leftovers: Soup thickens beautifully overnight and tastes even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use fresh gnocchi if possible for the softest texture.
• Sauté chicken first to enhance flavor before adding broth.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi; it should remain tender and pillowy.
• Stir in spinach at the very end to preserve vibrant color and texture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for balanced flavors.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the soup evenly.
Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping vegetables and chicken.
Wooden Spoon or Ladle: For stirring without mashing gnocchi.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning.
Serving Bowls: To showcase the creamy soup beautifully.

Ingredients in Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

1. Gnocchi: 12 ounces. Provides soft, pillowy bites throughout the soup.
2. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: 1 pound, diced. Adds lean, tender protein.
3. Fresh Spinach: 2 cups. Adds color, nutrients, and mild flavor.
4. Carrot: 1 medium, julienned or finely diced. Adds sweetness and texture.
5. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Infuses aromatic depth.
6. Onion: 1 small, diced. Builds foundational flavor.
7. Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Forms the base of the creamy soup.
8. Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Creates rich, silky texture.
9. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Helps sauté chicken and vegetables.
10. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances all flavors.
11. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon. Adds subtle heat and depth.
12. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. Infuses the soup with herbaceous notes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gnocchi: Use potato gnocchi or small pasta shapes like mini shells.
Chicken Breast: Thighs can be used for more juiciness.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or whole milk plus a tablespoon of flour for thickening.
Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard works as an alternative.
Olive Oil: Butter or avocado oil.

Ingredient Spotlight

Gnocchi: These soft Italian dumplings absorb flavor while keeping the soup silky and hearty.
Chicken Breast: Provides tender, lean protein that balances the richness of the cream and gnocchi.

Instructions for Making Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Add olive oil to the pot. Sauté chicken until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Add onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the gnocchi and cooked chicken. Simmer 5–7 minutes until gnocchi is tender.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning. Add spinach last and cook until just wilted.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle into bowls and serve immediately with breadsticks or crusty bread.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and lightly wilted spinach create contrasting textures in every bite. The cream provides a velvety mouthfeel, while carrots and onions add subtle sweetness and depth. Italian seasoning rounds out the flavor for a comforting, balanced soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Add gnocchi at the end to prevent overcooking.
• Use homemade chicken broth for extra richness.
• Stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi.
• Taste at the end and adjust salt or seasoning as needed.

What to Avoid

• Avoid boiling the soup once cream is added; it can curdle.
• Don’t add spinach too early; it wilts and overcooks.
• Avoid overcooking chicken; it can dry out and affect texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Note: Approximate values for 1 bowl.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore consistency.

How to Serve Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup

Serve in individual bowls with a side of breadsticks or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Pour over cooked pasta for a creamy chicken gnocchi pasta.
• Use as a base for a pot pie filling.
• Add extra vegetables and reheat for a hearty stew.

Additional Tips

• Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the flavor.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the soup in a deep, rustic bowl with a swirl of cream on top and a garnish of fresh parsley. Add breadsticks or garlic toast on the side for a complete presentation.

Variations to Try

• Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy: Stir in Parmesan or mozzarella before serving.
• Vegetable Boost: Include zucchini or bell peppers.
• Herbal: Fresh basil or thyme for enhanced flavor.
• Low-Calorie: Use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen gnocchi?

A1: Yes, just add a few extra minutes to cooking time.

Q2: Can chicken thighs be used?

A2: Absolutely, they stay juicier and more flavorful.

Q3: How can I make it dairy-free?

A3: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?

A4: Yes, but it’s best without gnocchi; add gnocchi fresh when reheating.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables?

A5: Yes, carrots, zucchini, or peas work well.

Q6: How do I keep spinach bright green?

A6: Add it at the very end and cook just until wilted.

Q7: Is this kid-friendly?

A7: Yes, mild and creamy without strong spices.

Q8: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

A8: Yes, cook chicken and broth for 3–4 hours, then add gnocchi and cream near the end.

Q9: How thick should the soup be?

A9: Creamy but slightly pourable, thick enough to coat the spoon.

Q10: Can I add cheese?

A10: Parmesan or Pecorino Romano works beautifully stirred in before serving.

Conclusion

Olive Garden Style Chicken & Gnocchi Soup is creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Perfect for a cozy night or a family dinner, it’s rich, satisfying, and easy to make at home. Every spoonful delivers tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and bright spinach in a creamy, flavorful broth. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

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