Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Why Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the Cozy Comfort You’ve Been Craving

There’s a reason people keep going back to Olive Garden, and it’s not just for the endless breadsticks. For many, it’s the chance to enjoy a taste of Italy without hopping on a plane or spending hours in the kitchen. Among their most beloved menu items is the Chicken Gnocchi Soup—a dish that has earned a loyal following and for good reason.

This soup is everything you want on a cool, gray afternoon or during the busy weeknights when you just need something soothing. It starts with a luxuriously creamy broth, rich but not overwhelming, that immediately sets the stage for comfort. Floating in that silky base are soft pillows of gnocchi, tender chunks of chicken, and fresh spinach that not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness. A sprinkling of herbs ties everything together, bringing layers of flavor that linger on your palate with each spoonful.

What makes this dish so irresistible is its ability to feel indulgent yet familiar. The gnocchi provides a hearty, satisfying bite, while the chicken adds protein to keep you full and energized. The spinach, though subtle, gives the soup a freshness that makes it taste homemade—like something your grandmother might whip up to warm your soul.

And while the recipe itself is simple, the experience is anything but ordinary. One spoonful can feel like a hug, the kind that melts away the stress of the day. No wonder it’s one of Olive Garden’s most requested recipes to recreate at home—because once you’ve had it, you’ll want to relive that comfort again and again.

Whether enjoyed in the restaurant with friends or made at home in your kitchen, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a reminder of how food can bring warmth, joy, and a little taste of Italy straight to your table.


Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 set measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  •  1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • for serving grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions

  1.  In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the dried thyme and basil, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, and add the shredded chicken and gnocchi. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
  5. Stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.