A creamy, comforting bowl of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup you can make at home with simple ingredients and rich flavors.
What Is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, hearty soup featuring tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. It’s a staple at Olive Garden restaurants and a favorite among soup lovers.
The History Behind Chicken Gnocchi Soup
While Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a modern American-Italian dish, gnocchi itself has deep Italian roots. Gnocchi, meaning “dumplings” in Italian, dates back to Roman times. The soup version gained popularity in Italian-American cuisine, evolving into the creamy dish we know today.
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and Rich – A perfect balance of creamy broth and chewy gnocchi.
- Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens.
- One-Pot Meal – Cooks quickly in a single pot for easy cleanup.
- Better Than Takeout – Tastes just like the restaurant version, if not better!
Key Ingredients
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender bite.
- Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy potato gnocchi that thickens the soup.
- Vegetables – Carrots, celery, and spinach for a fresh touch.
- Garlic and Onion – Essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth – Forms the soup’s savory base.
- Heavy Cream – Gives the soup its signature creamy texture.
- Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, thyme, and Italian herbs enhance the taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and shred.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Add Broth and Gnocchi
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in shredded chicken and gnocchi.
4. Finish with Cream and Spinach
- Lower heat and add heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Toss in fresh spinach and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Let the soup simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free Option – Swap traditional gnocchi for gluten-free gnocchi.
- Extra Protein – Add cooked sausage or turkey for a heartier dish.
Best Side Dishes
- Warm garlic bread
- Fresh Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freeze – Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in the chicken gnocchi soup at Olive Garden?
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup contains tender chicken, potato gnocchi, carrots, celery, spinach, and a creamy broth with herbs.
What is the nutritional value of Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup?
A single serving contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 12g fat, and 28g carbs.
Does chicken and gnocchi soup freeze well?
Yes, but the texture of gnocchi may change slightly after freezing. Reheat gently for best results.
How long is chicken gnocchi soup good for in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.
Suggested Recipes
For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.