Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi: Delicious Comfort

July 31, 2025

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi has become my ultimate comfort food, a dish that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners. The aroma alone, a savory blend of herbs and creamy broth, is enough to make my mouth water. I remember the first time I tried to recreate this beloved soup at home, hoping to capture that signature restaurant magic. After a few tries, I finally nailed my homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi, and let me tell you, the result is pure bliss – tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, velvety broth that warms you from the inside out. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

This soup is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly satisfying with its creamy texture and hearty ingredients.

Unforgettable Flavor: It perfectly mimics the beloved taste of the restaurant classic, ensuring a delicious dining experience.
Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this comforting soup on the table fast.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this rich and creamy dish, making it a guaranteed hit for any family meal.
Budget-Friendly: Making this chicken gnocchi Olive Garden recipe at home saves you money without sacrificing taste.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from spinach and carrots, it’s a nourishing option.
Versatile: This recipe is a fantastic base, easily adaptable to your preferences.
Authentic Taste: You’ll be amazed at how close this chicken gnocchi Olive Garden recipe comes to the restaurant original.

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Ingredients

Gathering the right Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi ingredients is the first step to recreating this comforting classic at home. You’ll need 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced, which provides a tender protein base. For that signature texture, grab 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi; they cook up so soft and fluffy! We’ll also add vibrant color and nutrients with 1 cup carrots, shredded, and 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped, which wilts beautifully into the creamy broth. Don’t forget 1/2 cup celery, diced, and 1 small onion, finely chopped, for aromatic depth, plus 3 cloves garlic, minced for that essential savory punch. The liquid gold comes from 4 cups chicken broth and 2 cups half-and-half, creating that rich, creamy base. Finally, enhance the flavor with 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing, 1 teaspoon dried thyme for herbaceous notes, and of course, salt and black pepper to taste.

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How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

Let’s dive into making this incredibly satisfying Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi soup! It’s simpler than you might think to achieve that creamy, comforting flavor you love.

Step 1: Start by heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your finely chopped 1 small onion, diced 1/2 cup celery, shredded 1 cup carrots, and minced 3 cloves garlic. Sauté these aromatics until they begin to soften and smell fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor for our soup.
Step 2: Stir in the 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Cook for another 2 minutes, just to let the chicken warm through and meld with the sautéed vegetables. You’ll start to smell the wonderful savory notes coming together – it’s a great cue that you’re on the right track for how to make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi.
Step 3: Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions, typically 3-4 minutes, until they float to the surface. Don’t overcook them; we want them tender, not mushy.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low. Now, it’s time for the magic! Stir in the 2 cups half-and-half and the chopped 1 cup fresh spinach. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch as the soup transforms into a beautifully creamy consistency, and the spinach wilts into tender ribbons. This is the key to that rich, velvety texture everyone loves.
Step 5: Finally, season everything generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and taste. Adjust seasonings as needed to get it just right. Serve your delicious, homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi soup hot, perhaps with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

Want to elevate your homemade soup to restaurant quality? Here are my go-to tips for achieving the absolute best Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi.

Use quality chicken broth for a richer base.
Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they cook very quickly once they float.
Stir in the half-and-half gently over low heat to prevent curdling.
Adding a pinch of nutmeg can subtly enhance the creamy flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi?

The secret to that perfect, creamy texture is the combination of sautéed aromatics building a flavor base and gently simmering the half-and-half with the gnocchi and spinach. It’s all about layering those flavors!

Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the soup components ahead of time! Sauté the vegetables and cook the chicken up to two days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Add the broth, gnocchi, half-and-half, and spinach when you’re ready to serve for the freshest result.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi?

Avoid overcooking the gnocchi, as they can become mushy. Also, be careful not to boil the soup after adding the half-and-half; a gentle simmer is key to a smooth, creamy texture without curdling.

Best Ways to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup is all about complementing its creamy, savory goodness. For a truly authentic experience, consider pairing your chicken gnocchi soup Olive Garden style with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Crusty bread is another fantastic companion. A warm baguette or some garlic breadsticks are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. You can find more delicious recipes like this on our recipes page.

For a more substantial meal, you could serve it alongside a light pasta dish or a classic Italian appetizer like bruschetta. These pairings enhance the meal without overpowering the star of the show! For other comforting dishes, check out our Turkey Meatloaf Recipe or our Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce.

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Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi nutrition per serving. This hearty soup offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Calories: 350 calories
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more information on healthy eating, you might find resources on nutrition and healthy eating helpful.

How to Store and Reheat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

Properly storing and reheating your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi ensures you can enjoy those delicious leftovers just as much as the first serving. Once the soup has cooled slightly, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, if the soup has thickened considerably (which is common with the gnocchi absorbing liquid), add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. Avoid boiling after reheating, especially if you added half-and-half, to maintain that lovely creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi

What is Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi?

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi is a popular soup on the restaurant’s menu, known for its creamy, savory broth filled with tender pieces of chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach. My recipe aims to capture that same comforting, delicious experience right in your own kitchen.

Can I use store-bought chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure you have about 2 cups of diced chicken. It makes preparing this Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi dish even faster and easier. For other quick meal ideas, consider our Korean BBQ Meatballs.

What kind of gnocchi should I use?

For the best result, I recommend using shelf-stable potato gnocchi, which you can find in the pasta aisle. They cook up beautifully tender and are easy to work with. If you happen to find fresh gnocchi, they work too, but they might cook a little faster!

How do I make the soup creamy without it being too heavy?

The creaminess comes from the half-and-half, which is lighter than heavy cream. I also find that using good quality chicken broth and not over-boiling the soup after adding the dairy helps maintain a wonderfully smooth and not-too-heavy texture for your Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi.

Variations of Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not get creative with your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi? There are so many ways to personalize this comforting dish!

Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or diced zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the creamy broth and gnocchi.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onions in the first step. This gives the soup a subtle warmth that complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and ensuring your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. For more gluten-free options, explore our Keto Cottage Cheese Bread Recipe.
Heartier Bowl: If you want an even more substantial meal, consider adding a small amount of cooked pasta like ditalini or orzo along with the gnocchi for an extra carb boost in your Olive Garden creamy chicken gnocchi.

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