There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken gnocchi soup, especially when it wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: luscious chunks of tender chicken swimming in a creamy broth, with fluffy gnocchi bobbing around like little dumpling lifeguards ready to save the day. The aroma alone can make even the most stubborn of hearts melt, and trust me, you’ll want to dive right in.

Now, let’s be real – if you’ve ever been to Olive Garden and tasted their chicken gnocchi soup, you know it’s a heavenly experience. It’s that kind of dish that makes you feel all fuzzy inside, elevating your mood faster than your favorite playlist. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or even solo couch parties while binge-watching your favorite series! Get ready for an adventure of flavors because this recipe is about to revolutionize your dinner routine.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken gnocchi soup captures the essence of comfort food while being incredibly easy to prepare
- It bursts with flavor from fresh ingredients and herbs
- The visual appeal is stunning with its creamy broth and vibrant vegetables
- Enjoy it any day of the week; it’s perfect for busy evenings or special occasions
I still remember the first time I made this chicken gnocchi soup for my friends. Their eyes widened with delight as they took that first spoonful—priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; it’s a game-changer in this recipe.
Carrots: Opt for vibrant orange ones; they add sweetness and color.
Celery Stalks: Fresh celery provides crunch and aromatic depth; make sure they are crisp.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade is always best but store-bought works too.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its rich texture; don’t skimp on quality here!
Dried Thyme and Parsley: These herbs enhance the flavor profile beautifully; fresh is great if available.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly here; they’re quick and easy to prepare.
Spinach or Kale: Add towards the end for freshness and nutrition; it also looks great in the bowl.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Chicken: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables: Toss in minced garlic, carrots, and celery next. Sauté these veggies until they’re soft and fragrant, around 4-5 minutes—your kitchen will smell divine.
Add Broth & Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth along with dried thyme and parsley. Bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes so those flavors can mingle wonderfully.
Add Cream & Gnocchi: Reduce heat slightly before stirring in heavy cream and uncooked gnocchi into the pot. Allow them to cook until they float—usually around 3-4 minutes—indicating they are done.
Finish with Greens: Finally, stir in your choice of spinach or kale just until wilted—about 1-2 minutes—and behold! You have a delightful soup ready to be devoured.
Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this chicken gnocchi soup! It’s like having a cozy blanket wrapped around you while enjoying your favorite movie or gathering around with family for some hearty laughter.
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken gnocchi soup olive garden recipe combines creamy broth with pillowy gnocchi and tender chicken
- It’s a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy hug in a bowl
- The vibrant flavors and aromas will transport you straight to Italy
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in moisture, then cook the gnocchi while preparing your creamy broth. This sequence ensures even cooking and enhances the flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out kale for spinach or add some roasted garlic for an extra flavor boost. Personalizing your dish makes it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to revive its creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use fresh gnocchi instead of dried; this ensures a tender bite
- Avoid boiling the soup too vigorously after adding cream to prevent curdling
- Always taste before serving; seasoning can make all the difference!
Some of my fondest memories revolve around this soup, especially when my kids declared it their favorite dish after just one spoonful. Their smiles were priceless!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for chicken gnocchi soup olive garden?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and still delivers delicious results.
Is chicken gnocchi soup olive garden gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free unless you use gluten-free gnocchi.
How can I make chicken gnocchi soup olive garden healthier?
Substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or use less cream for a lighter version.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the creamy, heartwarming delight of chicken gnocchi soup, perfect for chilly days. This comforting dish features tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables all simmered in a rich broth. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or enjoying a solo night in, this recipe guarantees smiles with every spoonful.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach or kale
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery; sauté until soft and fragrant (4-5 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken broth along with thyme and parsley; bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat slightly before adding heavy cream and uncooked gnocchi; cook until gnocchi float to the surface (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in spinach or kale just until wilted (1-2 minutes) before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg