Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)

There’s something magical about a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I had Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Olive Garden—it was rich, hearty, and packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a velvety broth. It felt like a hug in a bowl.

But what if you could make this delicious soup at home, with simple ingredients, in just 30 minutes? That’s exactly what this easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe delivers. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a quick, comforting meal, this is a foolproof recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Beginner-friendly – Uses simple techniques and pantry staples.
• Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich & creamy – A restaurant-quality soup made right in your kitchen.
• One-pot convenience – Less cleanup, more flavor.

Now, let’s dive into the key ingredients and why they matter.

Ingredients and Their Role in the Soup

This one-pot creamy soup comes together with just a few key ingredients. Here’s what each one does for the dish:

• Chicken – Adds protein and heartiness. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.
• Gnocchi – These soft, pillowy potato dumplings make the soup filling and satisfying. You can use store-bought or homemade.
• Spinach – Adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes.
• Carrots & Onion – Provide sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the aroma and gives the soup a warm, comforting taste.
• Butter & Flour – Create a roux, which thickens the soup for a rich, creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful base of the soup. Use low-sodium broth for better control of seasoning.
• Milk – Adds creaminess. For extra richness, swap for half-and-half or heavy cream.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Parsley) – Simple yet essential for bringing out the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free gnocchi and swap flour for cornstarch.
• Dairy-free? Replace butter with olive oil and use unsweetened almond milk.
• Want extra veggies? Add celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir constantly for one minute. This helps thicken the soup later.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. (Alternatively, you can cook the gnocchi directly in the soup.)

Step 5: Add Milk and Chicken

Pour in the milk, followed by the shredded chicken. Stir well and let it come to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low.

Step 6: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

Stir in the cooked gnocchi and spinach. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls and serve hot.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Soup too thin? Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a minute.
• Soup too thick? Add more chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
• Shortcut Tip: Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch. It saves time without sacrificing flavor.
• No gnocchi? Swap with small pasta like tortellini, or even diced potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• With Breadsticks: Serve with homemade or store-bought breadsticks for dipping.
• With a Side Salad: A simple Caesar or garden salad makes a great light pairing.
• As a Meal Prep Option: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Note: This soup does not freeze well due to the creamy base—it may separate upon thawing.

Give This Recipe a Try!

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to grab your pot and make this easy, creamy chicken gnocchi soup at home! Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this is a foolproof recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor every time.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

More Relevant Recipes

• Sausage Soup with Spinach, Potatoes, and White Beans
• Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes
• Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Print