30 Minute Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe for Cozy Winter Nights

Last Updated on October 15, 2025 by Chef Josie

Few things bring comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a cold evening. This creamy, flavorful dish is packed with tender chunks of chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, garlic-infused cream broth. Inspired by the beloved Olive Garden classic, this version is even better because it’s homemade, budget-friendly, and ready in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re craving a quick family meal or looking for winter supper ideas that feel indulgent but are simple to make, this soup delivers. It’s hearty enough for dinner, light enough for lunch, and absolutely perfect for pairing with warm breadsticks or a crisp salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes on the stovetop.
• Creamy and Flavorful: A rich broth with just the right amount of garlic and herbs.
• Kid-Approved: Mild, comforting flavors that kids will happily devour.
• Affordable Comfort Food: Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients.
• Versatile: Works beautifully with leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Save money while enjoying Olive Garden flavor any night of the week.

Ingredient Breakdown

Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast or thigh meat, cubed or shredded. Rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time.
Gnocchi: Tender potato dumplings that absorb the creamy broth. Use store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
Butter and Olive Oil: Provide a rich base for sautéing vegetables and developing flavor.
Carrots, Celery, and Onion: The holy trinity of soup flavor, adding sweetness, crunch, and depth.
Garlic: Brings warmth and a subtle bite that defines the creamy broth.
All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the soup slightly.
Chicken Broth: Adds savory richness and forms the liquid base.
Heavy Cream: Gives the soup its signature silky texture. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Spinach: Adds freshness, color, and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard are also great substitutes.
Italian Seasoning, Thyme, Salt, and Pepper: Balance the flavors perfectly for a cozy, savory finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Create the Base:
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until coated. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
3. Add Chicken and Gnocchi:
   Stir in the cooked chicken and gnocchi. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and floating on top.
4. Make It Creamy:
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it gently simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Add the Spinach:
   Stir in fresh spinach just before serving. It will wilt perfectly in the hot broth.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with warm garlic breadsticks or a slice of crusty bread.

Notes and Top Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Add them once the soup is simmering; they cook fast and can become mushy if left too long.
• Thicker Texture: Mash a few gnocchi in the pot or add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Lighter Option: Use milk instead of cream and add extra vegetables for a healthy twist.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the base ahead of time and add gnocchi and spinach just before serving to keep them fresh.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Pair With: Warm breadsticks, garlic toast, or a light green salad.
• Variations:
  • Substitute cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken.
  • Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a stronger flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Stir in chopped bacon for a smoky twist.
  • Turn it into a Crockpot Gnocchi Recipe by simmering on low for 4 hours, adding cream and spinach at the end.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For best texture, freeze the soup without gnocchi. Add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Closing

This 30 Minute Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is everything you love about dining out, made simple for your own kitchen. It’s creamy, cozy, and ready in half an hour — ideal for easy dinners, family gatherings, or those nights when you need a bowl of warmth.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and rating below! Share your favorite Soup With Gnocchi Recipes or Easy Healthy Gnocchi Recipes with me, and check out more comforting Winter Dinner For Kids ideas on the blog.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Add directly to the hot soup without thawing.

2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.

3. How can I make it healthier?
Use milk instead of cream, add extra veggies, or use cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option.

4. Can I cook the chicken in the same pot?
Yes! Brown raw chicken pieces first, remove them, then follow the recipe as written. Add the chicken back before simmering with the broth.

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