If you’ve ever found yourself ordering Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup every time you visit (and let’s be real, who hasn’t?), this recipe is for you. This creamy chicken soup is full of tender gnocchi, shredded chicken, and a medley of vegetables swimming in a rich, herby broth. It’s a warm hug in a bowl—and now, you can enjoy it anytime right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Copycat Recipe

This soup nails that signature flavor you love: soft pillows of gnocchi, bits of savory chicken, and just enough spinach to make you feel good about your second bowl. It’s comfort food with Italian flair, and it’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for Sunday supper. Plus, it all comes together in one pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan, optional

How to Make Italian Gnocchi Soup

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.

Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in thyme and basil. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce to a simmer. Add shredded chicken and gnocchi. Cook 5–7 minutes until gnocchi float.

Stir in spinach and heavy cream. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Soup

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.

Gnocchi cooks quickly—don’t overdo it or it’ll get mushy.
Want it thicker? Add a spoonful of flour to the veggies while sautéing.
Fresh spinach is best, but frozen works in a pinch.

From Restaurant Favourite to Home Staple

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup made its way into our family menu after one too many “soup, salad, and breadsticks” lunches. Once I realised how easy it was to recreate at home, it became our go-to on chilly nights. The kids love the gnocchi, I love the no-fuss recipe, and everyone leaves the table happy.

What to Serve with Italian Gnocchi Soup

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
A crisp Caesar or Italian salad
Antipasto skewers or marinated olives
A glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?

Creamy soups can be tricky to freeze—best to enjoy fresh or refrigerated.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be less rich. Half-and-half is a good compromise.

Is this really like Olive Garden’s version?

Try it and see—many say it’s even better!

Do I need to cook the gnocchi first?

Nope! It cooks right in the soup.

Restaurant Quality, Made Simple

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you love about dining out, made simple and satisfying in your own kitchen. Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly good—this is one soup that deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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