Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Creamy, cozy, and full of tender textures, this Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup delivers restaurant-worthy flavor from the comfort of your own kitchen. The rich, savory broth hugs soft potato gnocchi, shredded chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all brought together with a touch of cream. It tastes like a warm hug in a bowl.

If you’ve ever sipped on the original and thought, “I could eat this every week,” now’s your chance. This copycat recipe is not only budget-friendly but also surprisingly easy to make in one pot. Whether you need a comforting meal for chilly evenings or a hearty dish for your weekly dinner rotation, this is a winner every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• It comes together in under 45 minutes.
• One-pot meal for fewer dishes.
• Better-than-restaurant taste with fresher ingredients.
• Creamy, satisfying, and still light enough for lunch.
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly.

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What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use?

For this recipe, shelf-stable potato gnocchi works beautifully and is easy to find in most supermarkets. You can also use refrigerated or homemade gnocchi if you have it on hand—just be sure not to overcook it so it stays soft and pillowy.

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Ingredients for the Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken breast – Cooked and shredded chicken brings lean protein and heartiness to the soup.

Potato gnocchi – These soft, pillowy dumplings make the soup delightfully comforting and filling.

Yellow onion – Adds aromatic depth and savory base flavor.

Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic brings warmth and classic Italian notes.

Carrots – Diced carrots add sweetness and color contrast.

Celery – Contributes a subtle earthy crunch.

Fresh spinach – Brightens the soup and adds a healthy, leafy green element.

Chicken broth – The flavorful liquid base that ties it all together.

Heavy cream – Makes the soup luxuriously creamy.

Butter – Used to sauté the vegetables and adds a rich finish.

Olive oil – Helps cook the vegetables evenly and enriches flavor.

Flour – Used to create a roux that thickens the soup base.

Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.

Thyme – Adds herbal depth to the broth.

Parsley – For garnish and a fresh pop at the end.

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How To Make the Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup of diced carrots, and 1/2 cup of diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add 1/2 teaspoon of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Simmer for another 4-5 minutes, or until gnocchi begins to float and becomes tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Spinach

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side.

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How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This hearty soup serves 4 to 6 people generously. Serve it hot in deep bowls, paired with crusty artisan bread or garlic knots. For a full Olive Garden-inspired meal, add a side salad with Italian dressing.

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How to Store Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note: the texture of gnocchi may soften further after freezing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free gnocchi to make it so.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened oat cream or full-fat coconut milk. It won’t taste identical but will still be delicious.

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Mushrooms, peas, or zucchini would be lovely in this soup.

How do I keep gnocchi from getting mushy?
Be sure not to overcook the gnocchi. Add them toward the end and cook just until they float.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If this Chicken Gnocchi Soup warmed your soul, try these other comforting soups from Mad For Meals:

• Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup
• Hearty Bean and Bacon Soup
• French Onion Short Rib Soup
• Shepherd’s Pie Soup
• Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it on chilly nights.

Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Did you add mushrooms or try a different green? I’d love to hear your twist on this cozy classic.

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