We all know the comfort of diving into a warm bowl of Olive Garden's signature Chicken Gnocchi Soup. The creamy broth filled with tender chicken chunks tender potato gnocchi and fresh vegetables creates an irresistible combination that keeps us coming back for more.
Now we'll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen with our easy-to-follow copycat recipe. You won't believe how simple it is to whip up this cozy soup that tastes just like the original. Whether you're craving a comforting weeknight dinner or planning to impress your guests this homemade version will become your go-to recipe.
What Makes Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup Special
Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup stands out with its distinctive combination of ingredients and textures. The soup features perfectly cooked potato gnocchi, tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach and a rich cream-based broth.
Key elements that distinguish this signature soup include:
- Fresh potato gnocchi with a pillowy soft textureHand-shredded rotisserie chicken piecesFinely diced carrots and celeryBaby spinach leavesItalian herb blend with thyme and rosemaryHeavy cream-based broth
The soup's flavor profile comes from its unique preparation method:
Sautéing aromatics like onions and garlicCreating a roux base for thicknessAdding cream gradually for smoothnessIncorporating chicken stock for depthCooking gnocchi directly in the brothThe key measurements that create the signature taste:
IngredientAmount per ServingHeavy Cream1/2 cupChicken Stock1 cupGnocchi4-5 piecesShredded Chicken3 ozFresh Spinach1/4 cupThe gentle simmering process allows the flavors to meld while maintaining the integrity of each ingredient. This attention to detail creates the restaurant's trademark creamy consistency and balanced taste.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Copycat Recipe
Creating an authentic Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup starts with gathering high-quality ingredients that match the restaurant's specifications. Here's a detailed breakdown of the essential components needed to achieve that signature taste and texture.
Fresh vs Store-Bought Gnocchi Options
Store-bought potato gnocchi offers convenience without compromising quality when making this copycat recipe. Pre-packaged gnocchi from brands like DeLallo or Trader Joe's provide consistent texture and cook time. Fresh gnocchi from local Italian markets delivers a lighter, more delicate texture with a shorter shelf life of 2-3 days. Cauliflower gnocchi serves as a low-carb alternative, maintaining the soup's creamy consistency while reducing carbohydrate content by 60%.
Key Herbs and Seasonings
- Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon adds earthy notesItalian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon combines oregano basil marjoramGround Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon enhances savory elementsFresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped for garnishNutmeg: 1/8 teaspoon adds depth to cream baseSea Salt: 1 teaspoon adjusts overall seasoning
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Gnocchi Soup starts with establishing a flavorful foundation. Each step builds layers of flavor while maintaining the signature creamy texture.
Creating the Creamy Base
Melt 3 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heatAdd 1 diced onion 2 chopped celery stalks & 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 5 minutes until softenedSprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over vegetables, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until goldenPour in 4 cups chicken broth & 2 cups heavy cream gradually while whiskingMaintain medium heat & stir frequently until mixture thickensAdding Vegetables and Chicken
Incorporate 2 cups diced cooked chicken & 1 cup shredded carrotsAdd 1 pound potato gnocchi & cook 3-4 minutes until they floatStir in 2 cups fresh spinach leaves & let wilt for 1-2 minutesSeason with:- 1 teaspoon dried thyme1 teaspoon Italian seasoning1/2 teaspoon black pepper1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Time-Saving Tips and Shortcuts
Quick Prep Organization
- Measure ingredients in advance using prep bowlsChop all vegetables at once: onions celery carrots garlicPlace ingredients in order of use on the counterLine up measuring spoons utensils pots in sequence
Smart Ingredient Shortcuts
- Use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chickenBuy pre-chopped fresh vegetables from produce sectionSelect packaged pre-washed baby spinachChoose shelf-stable potato gnocchi from pasta aisle
Time-Efficient Cooking Methods
- Sauté all vegetables together in one panCreate the roux while vegetables cookHeat broth in microwave before adding to potCook gnocchi directly in soup instead of separately
Batch Cooking Strategies
- Double the recipe for future mealsPortion soup into freezer-safe containersLabel containers with date serving sizeStore unfrozen portions up to 3 days
The streamlined process cuts preparation time to 35 minutes using these efficient methods instant pot chicken soup copycat compared to traditional recipes that take 60+ minutes. Each shortcut maintains the authentic Olive Garden taste while reducing kitchen time.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Refrigerator Storage
Store this homemade Olive Garden copycat soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool to room temperature olive garden gnocchi soup no chicken for 30 minutes before transferring it to storage containers to prevent condensation.
Freezing Instructions
The soup maintains its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months when stored properly:
- Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containersLeave 1 inch of headspace for expansionLabel containers with the dateStore at 0°F (-18°C) or below
Reheating Methods
Stovetop Method:
Pour soup into a saucepanHeat on medium-low, stirring every 2 minutesCook until internal temperature reaches 165°FMicrowave Method:
Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowlHeat in 30-second intervalsStir between each intervalContinue until thoroughly heatedPost-Thaw Adjustments
Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. If the soup's consistency changes after thawing, create a cornstarch slurry:
IngredientAmountCornstarch1 tablespoonWater2 tablespoonsStir the slurry into the simmering soup until it reaches the desired thickness.
Conclusion
We've shared our favorite way to recreate Olive Garden's iconic Chicken Gnocchi Soup right in your kitchen. This homemade version brings the same cozy comfort and rich flavors you love from the restaurant while giving you complete control over the ingredients.
With our streamlined process and smart shortcuts you'll be enjoying this creamy soup in just about 35 minutes. Whether you're serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead this recipe won't disappoint.
Give this copycat recipe a try and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of Olive Garden home. We're confident it'll become a new family favorite that you'll want to make again and again.