The moment you take a spoonful of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re greeted with a cozy hug that warms you from the inside out. Picture this: tender chicken swimming in a rich, creamy broth, surrounded by pillowy gnocchi that dance in your mouth like they’ve won a ballroom competition. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you up like a well-loved blanket on a chilly evening.
This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating memories. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. They gathered around the table with wide eyes and rumbling stomachs. It felt like a mini family reunion where everyone was united by one delicious bowl of warmth and happiness. And trust me, you’ll want to make this for every occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor combination is rich and satisfying without being overwhelming
- Visually appealing with its creamy broth and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, it’s an all-year-round favorite!
I once served this soup at a dinner party, and let me tell you—the clean-up crew had an easy job because there were no leftovers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will work perfectly; adjust based on how hungry your guests are.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic breath is worth it after this feast!
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; dice finely so it melts into the broth.
- Carrots: Cut them into small pieces to ensure they cook quickly and blend well with other ingredients.
- Celery Stalks: Chop these finely; they add crunchiness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade is best if you have it!
- Heavy Cream: This makes the soup luscious; don’t skimp—go ahead and indulge a little!
- Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought works wonders here; just toss them in when the soup is almost done.
- Spinach or Kale: Add greens at the end for nutrition and color; nobody needs a sad-looking soup!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese on top before serving—it’s the cherry on top of your culinary masterpiece.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces while inhaling that fresh garlic aroma—trust me, it’s part of the magic.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in chopped onion, carrots, and celery until they turn soft and aromatic—about 5 minutes should do.
Cook the Chicken: Add those delightful chicken pieces to your pot! Stir them until they turn golden brown and are nearly cooked through—around 7-8 minutes should work wonders.
Add Broth & Seasonings Pour in your chicken broth along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes so flavors marry beautifully.
Stir in Cream & Gnocchi: Add heavy cream next; let it swirl around like it’s dancing at prom. Once combined, toss in the gnocchi and simmer until they float—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
Finish with Greens & Cheese: Finally! Toss in spinach or kale until wilted then serve hot with freshly grated parmesan sprinkled generously on top.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your creation! Every spoonful will remind you why comfort food exists—because life can be tough sometimes!
Enjoy making this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as you’ll love eating it!
You Must Know
- This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly nights
- The combination of tender gnocchi and savory chicken will warm your heart and fill your belly
- Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to devour!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and onions until fragrant, then add chicken, broth, and gnocchi. Simmer until the gnocchi is tender while adding spinach for freshness at the end.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add some carrots for extra veggies. A sprinkle of cheese on top can elevate the flavor profile even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This soup shines when you use fresh herbs instead of dried ones; they bring vibrant flavors
- Always taste before serving—adjust seasoning as needed for a perfect finish
- Don’t rush the simmering step; it helps develop rich flavors throughout the dish
Sharing this soup with friends always brings smiles; one friend even asked for my secret recipe after his first spoonful!
FAQ
What can I substitute if I don’t have gnocchi?
You can use small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini as alternatives.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Omit chicken and use vegetable broth with additional veggies for a hearty option.
Can I freeze Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes in the cream-based soup.

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, featuring tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh greens—perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep ingredients by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and dicing the vegetables.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add chopped chicken and cook until golden brown (7-8 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and potato gnocchi; simmer until gnocchi float (about 5 minutes).
- Add spinach or kale until wilted. Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg