If you have ever craved a comforting bowl of creamy, savory soup with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, then you are going to absolutely adore this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm hug on a chilly day, with layers of rich flavors knitted together by fresh spinach and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Olive Garden’s version or trying it for the first time at home, this recipe captures all the soul-soothing goodness that has made it a beloved classic around the country. Get ready to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and your bowl with pure comfort!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity — each ingredient is both essential and thoughtfully chosen to create a perfectly balanced dish. From the juicy shredded chicken that brings hearty protein, to the fresh spinach adding vibrant color and nutrients, every element plays a vital role in crafting that signature creamy and herb-infused flavor you crave.
- 1 lb chicken breasts: Cooked and shredded for tender, juicy bites of protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness to sauté the aromatics.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base to build flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The comforting liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the soup’s luscious, velvety texture.
- 2 cups spinach, chopped: Offers a fresh pop of green and subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a woody, fragrant complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Lends an aromatic, pine-like note for depth.
- 1 package gnocchi: The star of the dish, soft potato dumplings that soak up all the flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s natural taste.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; this will become your flavor base. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful fragrances. This step builds a savory foundation that makes the whole soup sing.
Step 2: Add Broth, Cream, Spinach, and Herbs
Once your aromatics are perfectly tender, stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream to create a rich, creamy broth. Then add the chopped spinach along with dried thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, making sure everything combines nicely as the herbs infuse their subtle, earthy flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Now it’s time for the gnocchi to join the party. Add them directly to the bubbling soup and cook according to the package directions—usually about 3 to 4 minutes—until they float to the top, which is your cue that they’re perfectly cooked and pillowy soft.
Step 4: Stir in Chicken and Simmer
Once your gnocchi is tender, fold in the cooked, shredded chicken and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and heats the chicken through without drying it out.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your soup and season generously with salt and pepper to make sure every spoonful is bursting with flavor. Now it’s ready to ladle into bowls and enjoy!
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe even more, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or add a few fresh spinach leaves on top for that pop of color and an extra touch of creaminess. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a small drizzle of olive oil can also add a lovely finishing note.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic knots, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the luscious broth. A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette also complements the creaminess by adding brightness and crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls to amp up its cozy appeal at family dinners or gatherings. You can also garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add fresh aromatic layers that delight the senses visually and taste-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy, comforting meal ready to reheat on busy days.
Freezing
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe freezes nicely, but note that the texture of gnocchi can change slightly. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat with occasional stirring to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own chicken?
Absolutely! Using a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves you time. Just shred the meat and add it during the last simmering step for a quick and delicious meal.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free or lighter?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to make it dairy-free or lighter. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly but will still be creamy and satisfying.
What type of gnocchi works best in this recipe?
Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly and cooks quickly. You can also try homemade gnocchi if you want to customize the texture or flavor. Just be sure to cook them until they float to ensure doneness.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You could add mushrooms or extra spinach for more substance to keep the soup hearty and comforting.
How spicy is the Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
This soup is mild and creamy, focused on warm, herbaceous flavors rather than spice. However, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe inspires you to cozy up at home with a bowl of pure comfort and flavor. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment of warmth. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, nutritious spinach, and savory herbs simmered in a rich broth. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a hearty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add liquids and herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add chopped spinach, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the boiling soup and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3 to 4 minutes, until they float to the surface, indicating doneness.
- Incorporate chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Season: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as desired to enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with extra spinach, fresh herbs, or grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute with frozen spinach—just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
- For a lighter soup, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, keeping in mind it may slightly alter the creaminess.
- Gnocchi can be homemade or store-bought; fresh gnocchi will cook faster than frozen.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Adding grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of savory flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
