Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that luscious, creamy, soul-warming soup from Olive Garden, you’re going to flip for this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken swimming in a dreamy broth with velvety gnocchi giving you little pillows of comfort in every bite. It’s loaded with fresh veggies, subtle herbs, and just the right hint of Parmesan that elevates this soup beyond anything you’ve had before. Trust me, once you make this at home, you’ll never need to get takeout again. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want to wow your family with something deliciously homemade.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is all about simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly to create an unforgettable flavor combo. Each component plays a vital role—from the juicy chicken to the creamy dairy and those fluffy gnocchi pieces that soak it all in beautifully.

• 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): The star protein, providing tender, juicy bites throughout the soup.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For perfectly seared chicken and fragrant sautéed veggies.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible aromatic punch.
• 3 cups chicken broth: The savory foundation that ties everything together.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates that rich, creamy texture the soup is famous for.
• 2 cups whole milk: Lightens the cream just enough for smoothness without heaviness.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Offers a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the creamy broth.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Imparts a warm, earthy herb flavor.
• 1 tsp dried parsley: Lends a mild, fresh-herb note.
• 1/2 tsp salt (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste): Adds just the right hint of spice.
• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi: The soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained): A pop of vibrant green and gentle earthiness.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish): Finishing touch to add a salty, nutty flair.

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat—the aroma alone will get your kitchen buzzing with anticipation. Season your chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper, then cook each side for about 7 to 8 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside to cool slightly so you can shred it easily with forks, giving you those tender, juicy pieces that make every spoonful satisfying.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot—no need to dirty another dish—add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Next, toss in the carrots and celery along with the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This step layers in complexity and warmth, turning simple veggies into a hearty foundation you’ll thank yourself for.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and whole milk, stirring everything to combine. Bring the soup mixture to a gentle simmer—it should be just bubbling around the edges. This part is magic; the cream and milk blend with the broth to create that signature silky texture and rich mouthfeel that makes this soup absolutely crave-worthy.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Chicken

Now comes the fun part—stir in the potato gnocchi. These little clouds will float to the top within about 3 to 4 minutes once cooked through. Then, return the shredded chicken back into the pot, and immediately add the fresh spinach. Watch it wilt and melt into the soup, adding a fresh burst of color and an earthy note that balances beautifully with the creamy broth.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Your soup is ready when the spinach is tender and everything is heated through. Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan if you like, and prepare to enjoy an unbelievably satisfying dish that tastes even better than the restaurant version. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and the cozy home aroma will have everyone at the table excited to dig in!

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Garnishes

While the soup shines on its own, a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely nutty saltiness that takes it up a notch. Some crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a zesty kick if you like a little heat. A few chopped fresh parsley leaves add a burst of green freshness and a hint of color.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping and soaking up all that luscious broth. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add balance and fresh contrast, making your meal feel complete without being too heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation at dinner parties, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out small pumpkins in the fall. Adding a swirl of pesto or a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving can offer an elevated twist that impresses guests. And of course, don’t forget to ladle it generously—comfort food is meant to be enjoyed without restraint!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so sometimes leftovers taste even better the next day!

Freezing

While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the gnocchi’s texture may change slightly upon thawing, becoming softer. Freeze portions without the spinach (add fresh spinach when reheating) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to preserve flavor and texture as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Add fresh spinach near the end of warming to keep it vibrant and fresh. Be patient with gentle heat to maintain that creamy brilliance!

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen spinach works just fine; just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the soup. This helps prevent watery broth and keeps your soup packed with flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream and whole milk for your favorite dairy-free alternatives like canned coconut milk or almond milk. The texture will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a creamy, comforting soup with plenty of flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider adding mushrooms or additional beans for a protein boost that keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.

What kind of gnocchi should I buy?

Store-bought potato gnocchi from the refrigerated section works perfectly and cooks quickly. If you want to get fancy, fresh homemade gnocchi are amazing here but not necessary for a quick, delicious meal.

How spicy is this soup?

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is mild by nature to appeal to most palates. If you love spice, you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick it up.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe at home—it’s comforting, rich in flavor, and totally satisfying every single time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this soup will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. So grab those simple ingredients, get that pot simmering, and prepare to enjoy soup perfection that tastes better than the restaurant version. You won’t regret it!

Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

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4.2 from 52 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a flavorful blend of vegetables and herbs. Ready in just 35 minutes, this homemade soup is a perfect hearty meal that rivals the restaurant favorite, offering rich, cozy flavors with every spoonful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Dairy

• 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

Vegetables and Herbs

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Liquids and Seasonings

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)

Other

• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook chicken for 7-8 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked through, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove chicken from the pot, let it cool, and shred with two forks.
2. Prepare the Soup Base: In the same pot used for cooking chicken, sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add diced carrots, celery, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and soften the vegetables.
3. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and whole milk into the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, being careful not to boil so the cream does not curdle.
4. Add the Gnocchi: Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are cooked through and tender.
5. Finish the Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and is incorporated into the creamy soup.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, rich chicken gnocchi soup.

Notes

• For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
• Gnocchi can be homemade or store-bought; adjust cooking time if using homemade.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated on the stovetop.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free gnocchi.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American