Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Cozy in Every Spoon

Craving that cozy, creamy bowl of comfort from your favorite Italian chain without leaving the house? This Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is your golden ticket to weeknight dinner magic. It’s got all the good stuff: tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, herby broth that wraps you up like your favorite throw blanket.

And the best part? You can whip it up in under an hour. Yes, it’s that easy. Whether you’ve got a hungry crew to feed or just want leftovers that actually taste better the next day, this homemade version of Olive Garden’s chicken gnocchi soup hits all the right notes—comforting, creamy, and downright crave-worthy.

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What is Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is basically what would happen if a hug and a hearty bowl of soup had a baby. It’s a rich, creamy soup inspired by the beloved menu item at Olive Garden, combining juicy chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a trio of classic soup veggies like carrots, celery, and onion. All of that goodness gets cozy in a creamy, herb-scented broth that’s perfect for dipping bread or eating straight out of the pot (we’re not judging).

Think of it as chicken noodle soup’s more indulgent Italian cousin—the one who knows how to party but also brings you tea when you’re sick. It’s filling without being heavy and tastes like something you spent all day making, even though you didn’t.

Reasons to Try Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

First off, it’s way easier than you think. You’re just 45 minutes and one pot away from total comfort food bliss. Second, it’s ridiculously family-friendly. Even picky eaters who normally run from anything green will slurp this up, spinach and all. And third? It’s budget-friendly.

You can make a big pot of this for less than what you’d spend on two bowls at the restaurant—and probably still have leftovers. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. So if you’re tired, short on time, or just need a warm meal that makes your soul sigh with relief, this soup has your back. Want to try more cozy soups like this? You might love our Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup or Easy White Turkey Chili.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions to Make Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ready to recreate this cozy favorite at home? Here’s your step-by-step guide to making Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup that tastes just like the one you’d get from the restaurant—maybe even better. From prepping your ingredients to that final creamy stir, this walk-through will help you make it smooth, flavorful, and foolproof. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in helpful tips and internal links along the way so you can feel confident from start to finish.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatic Base

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft and the onion turns translucent. This step creates the savory base of your soup, so don’t rush it.

Pro tip: Want to learn how to chop your veggies faster and safer? Check out our vegetable prep tips for time-saving ideas.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Seasonings

Once your vegetables are softened, toss in 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir constantly for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. These herbs will infuse the soup with that signature Italian flavor you love from Olive Garden.

Optional tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a slight kick—just enough heat to warm things up without overpowering the creaminess.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Bring to a Boil

Now pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot gently to release all the flavorful bits. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. This is when the magic starts—your kitchen will begin to smell incredible.

Need a substitute? If you’re low on broth, mix water with bouillon or try a homemade version. You can read more in our chicken broth alternatives section for flavor-saving swaps.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

Once the broth is bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works great) and your 16-ounce package of gnocchi. Let the soup simmer gently for 5–7 minutes.

Here’s your cue: once the gnocchi floats to the top and feels tender when you poke it with a spoon, it’s perfectly cooked.

Want a heartier twist? Swap the gnocchi with tortellini—our Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup shows you how to make that switch effortlessly.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Cream

Now comes the dreamy part. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the pot and stir until wilted—this takes about 1–2 minutes. Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, gently mixing it into the soup. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

This step transforms the broth into that luscious, creamy consistency we all crave. It also gives the soup that restaurant-worthy finish.

Step 6: Taste and Season

Before serving, give the soup a taste. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Some prefer it saltier, especially if they used low-sodium broth. A tiny pinch of nutmeg (yes, nutmeg!) adds a subtle warmth that takes the flavor up a notch—try it and thank us later.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you’re feeling extra cozy, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it with warm bread or garlic knots for dipping. You can also pair it with our Sweet Potato Cornbread for a sweet and savory combo that’s pure comfort food heaven.

What to Serve with Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup is practically a meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few winning pairings. Crusty bread is non-negotiable—whether it’s garlic bread or a baguette, you’ll want something to dunk. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the soup beautifully. Want to keep the Olive Garden theme going? Whip up some Cinnamon Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread for a sweet and savory side. And if you’re feeling like dessert after, a cozy Pumpkin Pie Twist would wrap this meal up with a bow.

Key Tips for Making Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Don’t overcook the gnocchi—it gets mushy fast. Add it once your broth is simmering and watch for it to float. That’s your cue it’s done. Want a thicker soup? Cut back slightly on broth or add an extra splash of cream. If you’re dairy-sensitive, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream (oat works well). And always taste before serving—sometimes just a pinch of extra salt makes all the difference. Bonus tip: a sprinkle of nutmeg adds a warm undertone that pairs perfectly with the cream and spinach. Oh, and try sautéing the garlic with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Leftovers? Lucky you. Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gnocchi can soak up liquid over time, so the soup may thicken—just stir in a splash of broth or water when reheating. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it, but do so in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to avoid scorching the cream. This soup doesn’t freeze well (thanks to the gnocchi and dairy), so stick to fridge storage and enjoy it within a few days.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—it’s a time-saver and adds great flavor.

Is it okay to use frozen gnocchi?
Yep! Just toss it in frozen—no need to thaw.

Can I make it dairy-free?
You bet. Swap the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, but make sure it’s unsweetened.

How do I thicken the soup more?
Try reducing the broth slightly or adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water).

Final Thoughts

Easy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings all the comfort of a restaurant favorite into your kitchen—without the waitstaff or the bill. It’s creamy, filling, and so easy to make that you might just add it to your regular dinner rotation. Whether it’s a chilly night or just one of those “I need something cozy” evenings, this soup checks all the boxes. And hey, if this soup stole your heart, don’t miss our Leftover Turkey Soup or Easy Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup for more soul-warming meals.

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