Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe and Guide

If you’ve ever sat in a cozy booth at Olive Garden on a cold night, you know the magic of that creamy, comforting chicken gnocchi soup. The tender gnocchi, juicy bits of chicken, and the rich, herby broth — it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket from the inside out. This homemade version captures that same comforting flavor, all in one pot. And best of all, it’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, making it one of the best winter supper ideas for the whole family.

Whether you’re planning a winter dinner for kids or looking for easy healthy gnocchi recipes, this dish delivers creamy, hearty comfort with minimal effort. You can cook it on the stove or in your slow cooker — either way, it’s the ultimate bowl of coziness for cold weather evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Rich, creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Uses store-bought gnocchi for quick prep.
• Easy to adapt for the crockpot or stovetop.
• A family-friendly meal that everyone loves, from toddlers to teens.

This Olive Garden gnocchi soup is proof that restaurant favorites can be recreated easily at home — lighter, fresher, and perfect for your busy weeknight routine.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie works great)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (2% or whole)
• 1 cup half-and-half or light cream
• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
2. Add chicken and broth: Stir in shredded chicken and chicken broth. Add thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes to blend flavors.
3. Make it creamy: Lower the heat. Stir in milk and half-and-half, warming gently without boiling.
4. Add gnocchi: Stir in gnocchi and simmer 3–5 minutes until they float and become tender.
5. Finish with greens: Add spinach, stirring until wilted. Adjust seasoning.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Slow Cooker Method

For a hands-off version, add everything except milk, cream, spinach, and gnocchi to your crockpot. Cook on low 4–5 hours. Stir in milk, cream, gnocchi, and spinach during the last 30 minutes. This gnocchi crockpot recipe stays creamy and comforting — no extra stirring needed!

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Don’t boil after adding milk or cream. It can curdle; keep it gently simmering.
• Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and deep flavor.
• Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner soup; it thickens slightly as it cools.
• Want a little kick? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika.

Serving Ideas

This soup with gnocchi pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or soft breadsticks. Try serving it with Green Bean Salad for balance, or follow it with Lite Lemon Pound Cake for dessert. It’s also a great companion to Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for a comforting soup duo night.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or white beans for protein.
• Gnocchi Hamburger Soup Twist: Swap chicken for cooked ground turkey or lean beef for a hearty, kid-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free: Use oat milk and coconut cream for a lighter but still creamy result.
• Extra Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, kale, or peas for color and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating

Keep leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days. Gnocchi may absorb liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating. To freeze, make the soup base without the gnocchi, then add fresh gnocchi when reheating for the best texture.

FAQ

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes! Homemade gnocchi adds an authentic touch. Just boil briefly before adding to the soup.

How do I make this healthier?

Use low-fat milk, skip the cream, and load up on extra veggies. It still tastes indulgent.

What’s the difference between gnocchi soup and dumpling soup?

Gnocchi are Italian potato dumplings that stay pillowy and chewy — richer than flour dumplings.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely — just use gluten-free gnocchi (found in most grocery stores now).

What sides go best with it?

Try roasted vegetables or a crisp Caesar salad. And don’t forget the bread for dipping!

This Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup recipe is creamy, comforting, and effortless — exactly what you need for those cozy winter dinners. Every spoonful brings together the heartiness of chicken, the chew of gnocchi, and the flavor of herbs in a bowl that feels like home.