There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup, and this copycat recipe brings the Olive Garden experience straight to your kitchen. With tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, velvety broth, this dish is the perfect comfort food for cozy nights or when you want to wow your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: It strikes the perfect balance of creaminess while keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.
  • Simple and Quick: Ready in under an hour with straightforward steps.
  • Perfect Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 6)

For the Soup Base

  • Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Carrots: 2 medium, diced
  • Celery: 2 stalks, diced
  • All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup
  • Chicken Broth: 6 cups
  • Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or cubed
  • Gnocchi: 1 package (16 ounces), store-bought or homemade
  • Fresh Spinach: 2 cups, roughly chopped
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup

Seasonings

  • Thyme: ½ teaspoon, dried
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste

For Garnish

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for serving
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

Pro Tip: Dice the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and create a smooth, uniform base for your soup.

Step 2: Create the Base

  1. Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables with flour and stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux that thickens the soup.
  2. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Pro Tip: For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

  1. Stir in the cooked chicken, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the gnocchi and let the soup simmer for about 3–5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top. This indicates they are fully cooked.

Pro Tip: Homemade gnocchi will make this dish even more special, but store-bought works wonderfully for convenience.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Spinach

  1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and spinach.
  2. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.

Pro Tip: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  2. Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks for the ultimate Olive Garden-inspired meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup

  • Switch Up the Protein: Use turkey, sausage, or plant-based protein for a twist.
  • Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
  • Make Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully, so prepare it a day ahead for even richer flavors.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the gnocchi and cream, as they can change texture. Add them fresh when reheating.

2. What can I use instead of spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes. Be sure to remove tough stems and chop them finely.

3. How do I make this soup dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute instead of heavy cream.

Conclusion: A Bowl of Pure Comfort

This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, satisfying, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful delivers the perfect combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and rich, flavorful broth. It’s a dish that will leave your family and guests asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

So grab your favorite pot, get cozy in the kitchen, and bring the flavors of Olive Garden home. Don’t forget to pair it with warm breadsticks or a side salad for the ultimate Italian-inspired experience. 🍲✨