Authentic Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Your Ultimate Homemade Recipe
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a cherished restaurant classic now perfectly recreated for your home kitchen. This delightful soup combines tender shredded chicken, a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, all swimming in a rich, creamy broth alongside irresistibly pillowy soft potato gnocchi. It’s the ultimate cozy meal, promising a familiar taste that will warm you from the inside out.
For many, a visit to Olive Garden isn’t complete without a bowl of their iconic Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Its velvety texture and savory flavors have made it a fan favorite, inspiring countless attempts to replicate its magic. Today, we’re thrilled to share our perfected homemade version of this beloved restaurant dish. Preparing this copycat Olive Garden soup at home allows you to take full control of the ingredients, ensuring the freshest produce and highest quality chicken, all while being incredibly budget-friendly. Plus, it yields generous portions, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week. This recipe is destined to become a staple in your family’s rotation, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality taste with the warmth of homemade goodness.
Soup season (or any season, really!) is always a good time for a hearty, comforting bowl. Alongside this exceptional chicken gnocchi soup recipe, I frequently rotate other favorites like the nourishing Potato Leek Soup, a flavorful Chicken Tortellini Soup, the wholesome Vegetable Barley Soup, and a luxuriously smooth Creamy Cauliflower Soup. There’s something truly special about gnocchi that elevates any dish. I love incorporating these soft potato dumplings into various meals, whether it’s another comforting bowl of Easy Gnocchi Soup, a savory One Pot French Onion Gnocchi, or the indulgent Brown Butter Gnocchi with Broccoli and Pine Nuts. Each dish highlights the versatility and delightful texture of gnocchi, making it a star ingredient in my kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
- An Unbeatable Copycat Recipe: If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s soups, you’re in for a treat! This recipe masterfully captures the essence of their renowned Chicken Gnocchi Soup, standing proudly alongside other popular copycats like their Zuppa Toscana. Many tasters agree that this homemade version tastes every bit as authentic and delicious as the restaurant original, allowing you to enjoy that beloved flavor profile anytime you desire without leaving your home.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: Don’t let its restaurant-quality taste fool you; this creamy gnocchi soup is surprisingly simple to prepare. It requires minimal hands-on cooking time. The process involves a few straightforward steps: sautéing a foundational mix of vegetables, adding the remaining ingredients to a single pot, and then allowing it to simmer gently on the stovetop. This makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting weekend meal when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
- Incredibly Hearty and Satisfying: Forget watery, insubstantial soups. This is a truly filling and substantial meal in a bowl! Each serving is generously packed with succulent shredded chicken, an abundance of fresh, colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, and, of course, those wonderfully soft potato gnocchi. It’s a complete meal that will keep you feeling satisfied and cozy, especially on a chilly day.
Essential Recipe Ingredients
Crafting this delicious soup begins with a selection of readily available ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need, offering insights into each component’s role. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Aromatic Vegetables (Mirepoix): The foundation of this flavorful soup starts with a classic mirepoix. You’ll need finely chopped fresh garlic, which provides a pungent and indispensable depth, sweet yellow onion for its mellow sweetness, crisp celery for a subtle earthy note, and vibrant carrots, adding both color and a touch of natural sweetness. These vegetables are sautéed to create an aromatic base that infuses the entire soup with incredible flavor.
- Flavorful Seasoning Blend: The soup is generously seasoned to achieve that signature Olive Garden taste. This includes essential salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors, earthy dried thyme, a robust Italian seasoning blend for complex herb notes, fragrant dried basil, and a touch of mustard powder which subtly sharpens and deepens the overall savory profile. For those who enjoy a little kick, optional red pepper flakes can be added to introduce a gentle warmth.
- Chicken (Protein Powerhouse): Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a convenient choice, as they cook directly in the simmering soup, absorbing all the wonderful flavors. Once cooked, they are easily shredded to become tender morsels throughout the soup. Alternatively, for a quick and easy shortcut, you can use pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply add it towards the end when the gnocchi is introduced, just to warm it through.
- Potato Gnocchi (Pillowy Perfection): The star of the soup! We recommend using good quality store-bought potato gnocchi for ultimate ease and convenience, allowing you to get this delicious soup on the table faster. However, if you enjoy making things from scratch and have a favorite recipe, homemade gnocchi will undeniably make this soup even more special and delicious.
- Fresh Greens (Nutrient Boost): To add a touch of freshness, vibrant color, and an extra boost of nutrients, fresh spinach is stirred into the soup right at the end. It wilts beautifully into the hot broth. Feel free to experiment with other leafy greens such as chopped kale, Swiss chard, or even collard greens if you prefer, adjusting cooking time slightly if needed for tougher greens.
- Creamy Element (Richness & Texture): To achieve that irresistible rich and creamy texture, 2 cups of heavy cream are incorporated into the soup. This ingredient is key to replicating the luscious mouthfeel of the original. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option without sacrificing too much creaminess, half-and-half can be used. For a dairy-free or broth-based soup, you can omit the cream entirely, though the final texture will differ significantly.
Creative Ways to Modify Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
One of the joys of cooking at home is the freedom to customize. This homemade chicken gnocchi soup is incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand:
- Gnocchi Alternatives: While soft potato gnocchi are traditional, you have options. For maximum convenience, store-bought gnocchi is fantastic. However, if you’re feeling ambitious, using your favorite homemade potato gnocchi recipe will add an extra layer of love and fresh flavor.
- Swap for Pasta: If gnocchi isn’t your preference, or you simply want to try something different, this soup is equally delicious with a small pasta shape. Consider ditalini, small shells, or orzo for a similar hearty texture. Add pasta according to package directions, ensuring it cooks thoroughly in the broth.
- Chicken Varieties: We’ve opted for chicken breast, but skinless boneless chicken thighs would also work wonderfully. Chicken thighs often provide a richer flavor and stay incredibly moist. Simply adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are cooked through.
- Utilize Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using chicken that’s already cooked! Shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even pre-cooked chicken from your weekend meal prep can be used. If using pre-cooked chicken, there’s no need to simmer it with the broth; just stir it in along with the gnocchi towards the end of the cooking process to warm through.
- Different Leafy Greens: Fresh spinach adds beautiful color and nutrients, but feel free to swap it out. Hearty greens like chopped kale, cavolo nero (black kale), or Swiss chard would also be excellent. Just ensure they are properly cleaned and chopped, and allow them a few extra minutes to wilt compared to spinach.
- Boost with Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are used in the main recipe, a garnish of fresh thyme and parsley brightens the flavor profile. For an even deeper aromatic experience, consider adding a sprig or two of fresh thyme or a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers, removing them before serving.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit more complexity or heat, experiment with additional spices. A pinch of turmeric can add warmth and color, paprika offers a sweet and smoky note, cayenne red pepper provides a gentle heat, or for an exotic twist, try a dash of Middle Eastern za’atar.
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Creating this rich and flavorful soup is a straightforward process, ensuring a delicious result every time. Follow these steps for the perfect bowl:
Step 1. Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables: Begin by placing a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat on your stovetop. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Next, add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Continue to sauté these vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become tender and slightly softened. This step forms the flavorful base of your soup.
Step 2. Create the Roux Base: Once your vegetables are tender, sprinkle the all-purpose flour directly into the pot. Stir vigorously and continuously for 1-2 minutes, cooking the flour with the vegetables until it begins to brown slightly and forms a thick paste. This creates a roux, which will act as the thickening agent for your creamy soup.
Step 3. Gradually Add the Broth: This is a crucial step for a smooth, lump-free soup. Begin slowly adding the low-sodium chicken broth, about half a cup at a time, whisking constantly after each addition. The flour mixture will absorb the broth and thicken. Continue adding the broth gradually and stirring well until all the chicken broth is incorporated and the soup base starts to thicken smoothly. The slow addition helps prevent lumps and ensures a perfectly creamy consistency.
Step 4. Season the Soup: Now it’s time to infuse the soup with its signature flavors. Add the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and mustard powder to the pot. If you enjoy a hint of spice, stir in the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix all the seasonings thoroughly until well combined and fragrant.
Step 5. Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the simmering broth. (If you are using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step and add it in Step 7 with the gnocchi). Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and allow the chicken to cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot using a slotted spoon, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside.
Step 6. Add the Gnocchi: With the shredded chicken set aside, continue to simmer the soup for another 4-5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly more. Then, add the potato gnocchi into the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or according to the package directions, until the gnocchi is cooked through and floats to the top, indicating it is tender and ready. Remember, overcooked gnocchi can become mushy, so keep an eye on it!
Step 7. Finish and Serve: Reduce the heat to low. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Then, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir gently until it is fully combined and the soup takes on its beautiful creamy hue. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until they are completely wilted, usually just a minute or two. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and parsley for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Storage and Freezing Tips for Your Gnocchi Soup
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious Olive Garden copycat chicken gnocchi soup for days to come. Before storing, always allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation and inhibits bacterial growth, maintaining its freshness and quality. Once cooled, transfer the soup into a clean, airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s fully warmed through. If using a microwave, heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until piping hot.
This creamy chicken soup recipe also freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. After allowing the soup to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure there’s a little headspace in containers as liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality. To enjoy your frozen soup, transfer it to the refrigerator to defrost overnight. Once thawed, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave using the same methods as refrigerated leftovers, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the consistency is too thick after thawing.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Preventing lumps is key for a silky-smooth soup. The best technique is to add the chicken broth very slowly and gradually to the flour-vegetable roux. Start with a small amount of broth (about half a cup), whisking continuously and vigorously until it’s fully incorporated and smooth before adding more. Continue this process cup by cup, stirring gently but thoroughly after each addition. This gradual method allows the flour to absorb the liquid evenly and thicken without clumping, ensuring a perfectly smooth and creamy base for your soup.
As the soup simmers and cools, it can naturally thicken due to the flour roux and the starches from the gnocchi. If you find your soup has become thicker than desired, it’s very easy to adjust the consistency. Simply add a little extra low-sodium chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a splash of water, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir well after each addition and allow it to warm through before serving. This will thin out the soup without compromising its rich flavor.
For this recipe, we’ve used boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which cook directly in the soup and absorb all the delicious flavors before being shredded. However, for incredible convenience and flavor, precooked chicken is an excellent option. Shredded rotisserie chicken offers a fantastic shortcut, bringing rich flavor and tender texture without extra cooking time. Alternatively, any leftover cooked chicken, such as from these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, can be used. If using precooked chicken, simply add it to the soup along with the gnocchi to warm through, ensuring it doesn’t overcook and dry out.
Other Delicious Soup Recipes to Try:
Vegetarian
Mediterranean White Bean Soup
Vegetarian
Moroccan Carrot Red Lentil Soup
Beef
Cabbage Roll Soup
Soups
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
We hope you cherish this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe as much as we do! If you give it a try, please take a moment to leave a star rating and comment below. Your feedback is incredibly valuable. And for more delicious, comforting recipes and cooking inspiration, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @acedarspoon!
Tried this recipe? Leave a star rating and comment below! Subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on
Facebook,
Instagram, or
Pinterest for the latest.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Pin
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves,, minced
- 1/2 of a small sweet onion,, diced
- 2 stalks of celery,, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots or matchstick carrots
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes {optional}
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts,, cooked and diced
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach – roughly chopped
- 2 cups cream or half and half
Instructions
-
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and heat until it melts, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
-
Add the minced garlic and sauté for two minutes until fragrant. Then, add the diced onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they are soft and tender, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
-
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and cook the flour with the vegetables for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour begins to brown slightly and forms a thick paste, creating your roux.
-
Slowly add the chicken broth, a little at a time, whisking continuously as you incorporate it. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, thick soup base. Keep stirring until all the broth is added and the soup starts to thicken.
-
Add the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, dried basil, mustard powder, and crushed red pepper (if using) to the soup. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are well distributed.
-
Carefully add the raw chicken breasts into the pot. (If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, you will skip this step and add it in Step 8.)
-
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside.
-
Continue to simmer the soup for another 4-5 minutes to allow it to further thicken slightly. Now, add the potato gnocchi into the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or follow the package directions for your specific gnocchi, until they are cooked through and tender.
-
Reduce the heat to low. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Then, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until it is fully combined and the soup is beautifully creamy. Add the fresh spinach into the pot and stir until the spinach is completely wilted, which will happen quickly.
-
Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference. Garnish individual servings with fresh thyme and parsley. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread. Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Chef’s Notes
- For added convenience and speed, feel free to use leftover cooked chicken, such as shredded rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts. If using, simply add it back into the pot with the gnocchi to warm through, skipping the step of cooking raw chicken in the broth.
- If you opt for sliced carrots instead of shredded or matchstick carrots, ensure they are thinly sliced (no more than 1/8 inch thick) so they cook quickly and become tender at the same rate as the other vegetables.
- Storing Leftovers: Always allow your copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until fully heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 1-2 minute increments, stirring between each.
- Freezing Instructions: This chicken soup freezes beautifully! Once the soup has cooled completely, pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a small amount of headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.