Name: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, shredded; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: Cajun seasoning or Lawry’s Seasoned Salt for extra flavor; Tools:; Large stockpot or Dutch oven; Wooden spoon; Ladle

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Nothing brings my family to the dinner table faster than the rich aroma of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup simmering on the stove. This dish has quickly become a household favorite, and it’s no surprise why—it’s a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl.

I first tried recreating this recipe after a trip to Olive Garden left my youngest asking for seconds (and thirds!). However, I wanted something a bit more homemade and flavorful, so I started experimenting. The result? A recipe that combines velvety creaminess, tender gnocchi, and vibrant veggies like spinach and carrots in a way that feels both indulgent and nourishing. My husband loves how filling it is after a long day, and my kids can’t get enough of the soft, pillowy gnocchi.

What I love most about this soup is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or need a quick meal after soccer practice, this recipe delivers every time. And while I might tweak it now and then—sometimes adding a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a little kick—it never fails to impress. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a secret weapon in my meal-planning arsenal.

So, if you’re looking for something delicious, family-friendly, and oh-so-comforting, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the recipe for you. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds, too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I freeze this soup?
While it’s possible to freeze, the gnocchi might lose some of its texture upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add them fresh when reheating.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of cornstarch works well as a substitute. The soup might be slightly less rich, but it’ll still be delicious.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or dice it and add it to the soup near the end of cooking.

What You Need to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, shredded

2 celery stalks, diced

3 cups chicken broth

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

2 cups heavy cream

1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

2 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Cajun seasoning or Lawry’s Seasoned Salt for extra flavor

Tools:

Large stockpot or Dutch oven

Wooden spoon

Ladle

How to Make It:

Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Build the base: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Add the cream and gnocchi: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Gently add gnocchi and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender.

Finish with spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a pinch of your favorite seasoning.

Tips:

Don’t skip the spinach: It adds color, nutrients, and a fresh balance to the creamy soup.

Boost the flavor: A dash of Cajun seasoning or Lawry’s Seasoned Salt takes this dish to the next level.

Use fresh gnocchi: If possible, fresh gnocchi from the refrigerated section has a better texture than shelf-stable options.

Make it your own: Add mushrooms, substitute kale for spinach, or toss in some crispy bacon for extra flavor.

Latest Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This soup is amazing! My picky eater had three bowls. A new family favorite for sure!” – Sarah T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor, but I might add a little more salt next time. Great recipe!” – John D.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So creamy and delicious! Perfect for a cold winter night.” – Emily R

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I substituted kale for spinach, and it turned out great. Thanks for the tip!” – Lisa H.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Better than Olive Garden! My whole family devoured it.” – Amanda K.

Printable Recipe:

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