If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the cozy, creamy magic of your favorite restaurant’s soup at home, then this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is your dream come true. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and that perfect blend of Italian herbs that sing in every spoonful. Trust me, once you make this soup, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl that delivers depth of flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are ten bowls and a glass measuring cup: a white bowl filled with light yellow gnocchi at the top left; a white bowl with white flour next to it; a white bowl with dark soy sauce; a small white bowl with mixed dried herbs; a small white bowl filled with minced garlic; a clear glass measuring cup with white milk; a white bowl with chopped green celery; a white bowl with diced white onions; a small white bowl with a light yellow square of butter; a white bowl filled with shredded cooked chicken; a white bowl containing shredded orange carrots; a white bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves; and a glass measuring jug with golden brown broth at the bottom right. All items are cleanly arranged and well-lit. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe plays a starring role, from foundational veggies that build flavor to creamy elements that bring that signature luscious texture. Each item is easy to find and essential for creating an unforgettable combination of tastes, colors, and textures.

Butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing veggies and adds silky depth.
Yellow onion: Offers a sweet and savory foundation, finely diced for even cooking.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
Matchstick carrots: Introduce natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the soup with that irresistible garlicky warmth.
Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend that brings the authentic Italian flair.
Rubbed sage: Adds a hint of earthiness that deepens the flavor profile.
All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the soup to that perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken broth: The hearty liquid base that carries all the flavors.
Heavy cream: Gives the soup its signature velvety richness.
Potato gnocchi: Tender and pillowy, they soak up all the delicious broth beautifully.
Shredded rotisserie chicken: Adds hearty protein with convenience and flavor.
Fresh spinach: A pop of color and a fresh, lightly earthy bite.
Balsamic vinegar: Just a splash to brighten and balance the richness.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: To season perfectly and enhance every flavor.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion, celery, and matchstick carrots. Season with a good pinch of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper. Let these cook for about eight minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and begin to smell irresistible. This step is crucial as it sets the fragrant foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Garlic

Next, toss in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and rubbed sage along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything for about a minute more, stirring often. You’ll notice the kitchen fills with lovely, flavorful aromas, giving you a hint of the deliciousness coming your way.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour evenly, stirring constantly. This will form a light roux that thickens the soup later. Cooking the flour for about a minute removes any raw taste and binds all the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquids

Pour in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pot. Scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom — this little trick packs in extra flavor. Then, add the rest of the chicken broth along with the heavy cream, seasoning again lightly with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi and Chicken

Drop in the potato gnocchi and shredded rotisserie chicken. Let the soup simmer gently over medium-low heat for three to five minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface, signaling they’re perfectly cooked and soft.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Finally, stir in fresh chopped spinach and a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. The spinach will wilt quickly, providing a lovely green contrast and added nutrients, while the vinegar brightens the whole dish for that perfect balance.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and pepper as needed. Now your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is ready to warm your soul and satisfy every craving.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

A white pot with two handles is filled with thick, creamy white soup that has small black specks of seasoning and visible herbs throughout. Pieces of shredded pale chicken sit on top, surrounded by the smooth, rich soup base. Thin slices of orange carrot and chunks of softened white beans are visible under the surface. The pot is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes takes your soup to the next level. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese lends a nutty, salty touch that melts right into the hot bowl. Fresh chopped parsley or basil provides a burst of green color and herbaceous brightness that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

A crusty bread or soft garlic knots are fantastic for dipping and soaking up every bit of this creamy delight. Pairing the soup with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal balanced and refreshed.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bowls, topped with a drizzle of olive oil or a few red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. For a crowd, consider serving the soup in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s both fun and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the gnocchi will continue to soak up broth, so the soup may thicken — simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it.

Freezing

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe freezes best without the gnocchi added. If planning to freeze, cook the soup through step six and cool, then freeze in containers. When ready to serve, thaw and add freshly cooked gnocchi and spinach at reheating time for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup is too thick, add a little chicken broth or water. Add gnocchi and spinach fresh if froze the soup base alone, then simmer just until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works beautifully and cooks quickly in the simmering soup. Just add a couple extra minutes to cooking if needed until they are tender and floating.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter alternative, though the soup won’t be quite as rich. Avoid low-fat milk alone, as it may curdle when heated.

Is rotisserie chicken necessary?

Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful shortcut, but you can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs shredded at home. The key is cooked, tender chicken pieces to complement the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the chicken. You might want to add mushrooms or extra spinach to keep it hearty and satisfying.

How spicy is this soup?

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is mild by default, focusing on creamy and herby flavors. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to your table with every spoonful. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hug in a bowl. Don’t hesitate — grab your ingredients, gather a loved one, and fall in love with this dreamy, creamy soup that tastes just like your favorite restaurant’s version, but better because you made it yourself!