If you have ever wished you could recreate the cozy, comforting flavors of your favorite restaurant at home, then this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, rich, and bursting with tender chunks of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, this soup brings that iconic taste straight to your kitchen. It’s a perfect blend of hearty and fresh, all wrapped up in a velvety broth that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds) without a second thought.

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the aromatic vegetables that build a savory base, to the tender chicken and creamy broth that deliver comfort in every spoonful.

Olive oil: A tablespoon to gently sauté your veggies, adding a subtle fruity richness.
Onion: Diced medium onion that creates a savory foundation with natural sweetness.
Garlic: Two cloves minced for a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
Carrots: Diced for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances the creaminess.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Diced for tender, protein-packed bites in the soup.
Chicken broth: Four cups to infuse deep, savory flavor throughout.
Heavy cream: For that indulgent, silky texture that makes this soup feel special.
Potato gnocchi: A pound of these soft little dumplings that soak up the broth beautifully.
Fresh spinach: Two cups stirred in at the end to add a fresh, slightly earthy note and vibrant green color.
Dried thyme: A teaspoon for herbal depth and warmth.
Dried oregano: Also a teaspoon, lending an earthy, aromatic undertone.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing every flavor in the mix.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For serving, adding a savory, nutty finish that melts into each spoonful.

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften up and become wonderfully fragrant. This step is essential because it creates the savory backbone of your soup, infusing it with sweetness and earthiness that marry beautifully with the chicken and herbs.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken

Stir the minced garlic into the softened vegetables, cooking it just long enough to awaken its rich aroma without browning—about one minute. Then, add your diced chicken breasts. Let them cook through for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure every piece is evenly cooked. This creates those tender, juicy chunks that make the soup so satisfying.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. This step melds the flavors and prepares the soup for its creamy phase. The broth not only adds depth but also keeps the chicken tender as it simmers.

Step 4: Enrich the Soup and Add Gnocchi

Reduce the heat to let the soup simmer gently. Stir in the heavy cream to create that luscious, velvety texture you crave. Now add the potato gnocchi along with dried thyme and oregano, which subtly lift the dish with herbal warmth. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the gnocchi become tender and soak up the savory broth.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Spinach and Seasoning

Just before serving, stir in fresh spinach and allow it to wilt softly in the warm soup—about 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, customizing the seasoning to your liking. The spinach adds a fresh vibrancy that balances the richness perfectly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. That final touch brings out a nutty depth and ties all the flavors together in a gorgeous, comforting meal.

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

While the grated Parmesan cheese is a classic and essential garnish, feel free to experiment with freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add color and a burst of fresh flavor. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick if you’re in the mood for something a bit spicy.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a simple mixed green salad makes it extra special. A slice of warm, buttered baguette or cheesy breadsticks complements the creamy broth perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last bit of that delicious soup.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate your presentation, consider serving the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls or rustic white bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. A delicate drizzle of cream swirled on the surface can make it look restaurant-quality. When inviting friends over, placing the Parmesan cheese in a small dish so guests can add their desired amount feels welcoming and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its wonderful flavor and creamy texture. Just remember, the gnocchi may soak up a bit of the broth over time, so a quick stir and slight thinning with a splash of broth or cream during reheating will restore it beautifully.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but with a small caveat: gnocchi can become a bit softer after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi, then add fresh gnocchi when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months to enjoy that comforting taste anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup seems too thick. This slow warming helps keep your chicken tender and the gnocchi perfectly soft without becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Just add it to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking, so it heats through without drying out.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the soup will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works nicely, adding a slightly different but delicious flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and swap heavy cream for a plant-based alternative. Potato gnocchi can sometimes contain egg, so check ingredients or find vegan versions.

What kind of gnocchi should I buy?

Fresh or store-bought potato gnocchi both work well. Fresh gnocchi tends to cook faster and have a softer texture, while frozen is convenient and still delicious.

How thick should the soup be?

This soup should be creamy but still pourable, with the broth lightly coating the gnocchi and chicken. If it’s too thick, thin it with a little more broth or cream; if it’s too thin, gently simmer longer to reduce.

Final Thoughts

There is something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, especially when made with love in your own kitchen. It’s creamy, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to whip up, perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every warm, hearty spoonful as much as I do. Trust me, once you make this soup, it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort meal.

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 30 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A creamy and comforting chicken gnocchi soup inspired by Olive Garden’s famous recipe. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, fluffy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich broth infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer with Cream and Gnocchi: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, potato gnocchi, dried thyme, and oregano. Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender.
Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the soup will be less rich.
Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
Make sure not to overcook the gnocchi to avoid it becoming mushy.
Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Sautéing and simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American