Creamy, comforting, and filled with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a flavorful broth, this Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup is the kind of cozy dinner you’ll want to make again.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!This homemade copycat version brings together familiar ingredients in one pot, with a shortcut that makes dinner easier: cooked rotisserie chicken.
You get a rich, velvety soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re recreating your favorite restaurant soup or looking for a comforting chicken dinner, this recipe is a delicious place to start.
Prep time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cook time: Approximately 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40–45 minutes
Servings: 6
Method: Stovetop, one pot
Difficulty: Easy
The cooking times are estimates and should be confirmed during kitchen testing before publication.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup
There is something special about the combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy gnocchi.
Each spoonful brings together comforting flavors and a satisfying mix of textures.
Here are a few reasons to add it to your dinner rotation:
- One-pot convenience: Everything cooks in the same pot, keeping cleanup simple.
- Creamy without heavy cream: Half-and-half provides richness without requiring full heavy cream.
- A convenient chicken shortcut: Rotisserie chicken saves preparation time and works beautifully in soup.
- Hearty and satisfying: Chicken, gnocchi, and vegetables turn this into a substantial meal.
- Easy to customize: Adjust the seasonings, vegetables, or creaminess to suit your preferences.
And if you’ve ever enjoyed Olive Garden’s Chicken & Gnocchi Soup, you’ll recognize the comforting combination of chicken, potato dumplings, spinach, and creamy broth.
According to Olive Garden’s menu description, its version features roasted chicken, Italian dumplings, and spinach in a creamy soup.
This homemade interpretation uses those same signature elements but is not the restaurant’s proprietary recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The following quantities make approximately six servings.
For the soup
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 medium carrots, shredded or finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced (about ½ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken (approximately 280 g)
- 16 ounces (454 g) potato gnocchi, refrigerated or shelf-stable
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked rotisserie chicken is the easiest option.
Both breast and thigh meat work. Remove the skin and bones before shredding.
You can also use plain leftover roasted or poached chicken.
Potato gnocchi: Look for refrigerated or shelf-stable potato gnocchi.
Cooking times vary by brand, so check the package.
Frozen gnocchi can also work, but may require a different cooking time.
Half-and-half: This combines milk and cream.
It makes the broth creamy without being quite as rich as a soup made entirely with heavy cream.
Carrots and celery: These build the savory vegetable base.
Finely chopped vegetables also make the soup easier to eat and help them soften quickly.
Garlic: Optional for this homemade version.
If you prefer a more restrained, restaurant-style flavor, leave it out.
Parmesan: Adds a savory, slightly nutty finish.
It is optional and should be stirred in off the heat to help it melt smoothly.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
The secret to this soup is building flavor in layers, thickening the broth gently, and adding the gnocchi close to the end so it stays tender.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat.
Add the butter and olive oil.
Once the butter melts, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.
If using garlic, stir it in during the final 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.
Cooking tip: Keep the heat at medium rather than high.
You want the vegetables softened, not deeply browned.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Soup Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables.
Stir continuously for approximately 1 minute, coating the vegetables and allowing the flour to cook briefly.
Slowly pour in about 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
Gradually add the remaining broth, continuing to stir until the liquid is smooth.
Add Italian seasoning, thyme, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The broth should begin to thicken slightly.
Cooking tip: The flour and butter form the base of the soup’s creamy texture.
Adding the broth gradually makes it easier to achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Stir the shredded rotisserie chicken into the simmering broth.
Allow it to heat through for several minutes.
If using chilled leftover chicken, ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheated.
Taste the broth and add a little salt if necessary.
Because chicken broth and rotisserie chicken vary in saltiness, seasoning gradually gives you more control.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi directly to the soup.
Maintain a gentle simmer and cook according to the package directions, typically several minutes for shelf-stable or refrigerated varieties.
Stir occasionally so the gnocchi doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
The gnocchi should be tender all the way through.
Some pieces may float, but taste and texture are more reliable indicators of doneness than floating alone.
Avoid cooking the gnocchi longer than needed because it can become overly soft.
Step 5: Add the Half-and-Half and Spinach
Reduce the heat to low.
Slowly stir in the half-and-half, allowing it to combine with the thickened broth.
Add the baby spinach and cook gently for approximately 1–2 minutes, until wilted.
Avoid prolonged, vigorous boiling once the dairy has been added, as this may affect the soup’s smooth texture.
If the broth seems too thick, stir in a little additional chicken broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat.
If using Parmesan, sprinkle it into the soup gradually and stir until combined.
Taste one final time and adjust with salt or freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
For extra flavor, garnish with a small amount of freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a pinch of black pepper.
The finished soup should have a creamy, spoon-coating broth, tender gnocchi, soft vegetables, and plenty of chicken in every serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
A few small cooking decisions can make a noticeable difference in the final texture and flavor.
1. Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
Gnocchi are delicate potato dumplings.
Cooking them too long can make them overly soft, particularly in a thick, creamy soup.
Add them toward the end and follow the package directions.
2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Pre-shredded Parmesan sometimes contains anti-caking ingredients that can affect how smoothly it blends into hot soup.
Freshly grated cheese tends to incorporate more easily.
3. Choose Low-Sodium Broth
Rotisserie chicken can already be seasoned, so using low-sodium broth makes it easier to control the overall salt level.
You can always add more seasoning at the end.
4. Keep the Dairy at a Gentle Heat
Once the half-and-half goes into the pot, reduce the temperature.
Gentle heating helps preserve the creamy consistency and reduces the chance of separation.
5. Adjust the Consistency Before Serving
Gnocchi release starch into the soup, and the broth may thicken as it sits.
If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more warm chicken broth.
If your soup seems too thin, allow it to simmer gently before adding the dairy, giving the flour-thickened base time to develop.
6. Taste Before Adding More Salt
Broth, rotisserie chicken, and Parmesan can all contribute salt.
Finish cooking before making the final adjustment, especially if you plan to add Parmesan.
Easy Variations to Try
One of the advantages of homemade chicken gnocchi soup is how easy it is to customize.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Chicken Breast
If you prefer to cook the chicken from scratch, use approximately 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast.
Season lightly and cook it in the soup pot before preparing the vegetables.
Remove it, shred or dice it, and return it to the soup later.
Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
This variation increases the preparation and cooking time.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Without Heavy Cream
The main recipe already uses half-and-half rather than heavy cream.
For a different consistency, you could experiment with a combination of milk and cream, but the thickness will change depending on the fat content.
Dairy-Free Chicken Gnocchi Soup
For a dairy-free adaptation:
- Replace butter with additional olive oil.
- Use an unsweetened, dairy-free cooking cream suitable for heating.
- Omit Parmesan or use a suitable dairy-free alternative.
- Check that the gnocchi and other packaged ingredients contain no dairy.
A coconut-based cream is another option, although it may introduce a noticeable coconut flavor.
Gluten-Free Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Choose gluten-free potato gnocchi and replace regular flour with an appropriate gluten-free thickener.
Check the chicken broth, seasonings, and any pre-cooked chicken for gluten-containing ingredients.
The thickening method may need adjustment based on the flour or starch selected.
Spicy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the herbs.
Start with a small amount and adjust after tasting.
What to Serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This creamy soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but a simple side dish can round out the meal.
Garlic bread or breadsticks: Ideal for dipping into the creamy broth.
A crisp green salad: Fresh lettuce, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add color and texture.
Crusty artisan bread: A warm slice works beautifully with a bowl of soup.
For an Olive Garden-inspired dinner, pair your homemade soup with a garden salad and warm breadsticks.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Chicken gnocchi soup can be saved for another meal, although the texture of the gnocchi will continue to soften as it absorbs liquid.
Refrigerating
Transfer the soup into shallow, airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.
When properly refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, cooked leftovers can generally be kept for 3–4 days.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking, or one hour if the surrounding temperature is above 90°F (32°C).
Reheating
Transfer the desired portion to a saucepan.
Add a small splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened.
Stir frequently while reheating.
Follow USDA reheating guidance for soups, including heating thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) and bringing soup to a boil.
Avoid prolonged boiling after it has been thoroughly reheated because the cream may separate and the gnocchi may soften further.
Can You Freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
You can freeze the finished soup, but the texture may change after thawing.
Creamy broths can separate, and gnocchi may become soft or mushy.
For better make-ahead results, prepare and freeze the broth-and-vegetable base before adding the gnocchi, half-and-half, and spinach.
Add those ingredients when finishing the soup later.
Thaw frozen portions safely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup Made Of?
Chicken gnocchi soup typically combines cooked chicken, potato gnocchi, vegetables, broth, herbs, and a creamy dairy component.
Many homemade versions include carrots, celery, onion, and fresh spinach.
What Is Gnocchi?
Gnocchi are small Italian dumplings, commonly made with potatoes and flour.
They have a soft, pillowy texture when cooked properly.
In chicken gnocchi soup, they add a substantial, satisfying element that makes the dish feel more like a full meal.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi?
Yes, but cooking instructions vary by brand.
Check the packaging and make sure the gnocchi are tender before finishing the soup.
Avoid letting them simmer longer than necessary.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely.
Rotisserie chicken is especially convenient because it’s already cooked and easy to shred.
It also reduces the amount of cooking and cleanup required.
Why Is My Chicken Gnocchi Soup Too Thick?
The flour-thickened broth and starch released by the gnocchi can make the soup thicken, particularly as it cools.
Simply add warm chicken broth a little at a time until the consistency is right.
Why Is My Soup Too Thin?
The roux may not have simmered long enough to thicken the broth, or the recipe may contain more liquid than expected.
Give the broth a few minutes of gentle simmering before adding the dairy.
Avoid adding dry flour directly to finished soup, as it may form lumps.
Can I Use Milk Instead of Half-and-Half?
You can, but the broth will generally be less rich.
Whole milk is a practical option if you prefer a lighter consistency, although the final result will differ from the original version.
Can I Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes.
For the best texture, prepare the soup base in advance, then cook the gnocchi and add the spinach closer to serving time.
This reduces the chance of the dumplings becoming overly soft.
The Story Behind Olive Garden’s Popular Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Olive Garden’s Chicken & Gnocchi Soup has inspired a large number of homemade interpretations.
Its recognizable combination of creamy broth, roasted chicken, potato dumplings, and spinach makes it especially appealing to home cooks who want to recreate a restaurant-style meal.
Food creator Hajar Larbah of Moribyan published her own Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe on December 7, 2022.
Her version uses separately seasoned chicken and a creamy broth that simmers before the gnocchi is added.
This Polia version takes a different approach by using cooked rotisserie chicken, making it a convenient one-pot dinner.
Both methods demonstrate how adaptable this classic comfort-food combination can be.
You don’t need to recreate the restaurant version ingredient for ingredient to enjoy a flavorful homemade bowl.
The key is balancing the broth, seasoning, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi so that every spoonful is satisfying.
This recipe is an independent homemade interpretation inspired by Olive Garden’s Chicken & Gnocchi Soup. Polia is not affiliated with or endorsed by Olive Garden.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a warm, creamy dinner filled with tender chicken, potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach, this homemade Olive Garden-inspired soup is worth adding to your recipe collection.
With a straightforward one-pot method and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a comforting option for weeknight dinners, relaxed weekends, and cooler evenings.
Serve it with warm bread, finish with freshly ground black pepper, and enjoy a satisfying bowl of homemade comfort food.
Have you made chicken gnocchi soup before?
Share your favorite ingredient swaps or serving ideas in the comments.
Your tips might help another home cook discover a new favorite.
More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, you’ll love these comforting homemade soup recipes from Polia.blog. They’re perfect for cozy dinners, chilly evenings, and satisfying family meals.
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Rich, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli, this comforting soup is perfect when you’re craving something warm and creamy.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – Smooth, velvety, and full of cozy roasted squash flavor, this delicious soup is a wonderful choice for fall and winter dinners.
Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? Explore these homemade soup recipes and discover your next family favorite!
