Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort that’s creamy, hearty, and brimming with flavor, this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is about to become your new obsession. Imagine plush potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies bathed in a luscious, savory broth—every spoonful feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re recreating the magic of your favorite restaurant at home or discovering this classic for the first time, this soup delivers satisfying flavor and cozy vibes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in a recipe where each ingredient plays a starring role in building color, texture, and mouthwatering taste. Gather these simple but essential ingredients, and you’ll see how they come together for Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup magic:

• Olive oil: Adds a silky, aromatic base that helps our veggies and aromatics shine.
• Butter: Brings unmatchable richness and depth, marrying perfectly with olive oil.
• Yellow onion: Diced for sweetness and aromatic backbone—don’t skimp here!
• Garlic: Minced fresh, it gives real zing and savoriness to the broth.
• Carrots: Sliced for color, crunch, and a bit of natural sweetness.
• Celery: Adds classic freshness and a subtle herbal note.
• Dried thyme: This earthy herb brings all the cozy, home-cooked flavor.
• Salt: Don’t forget it—this simple seasoning unlocks all the soup’s flavors.
• Black pepper: Lends a welcome hint of heat and bite.
• Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch, but it gives incredible warmth and depth to the soup.
• All-purpose flour: The secret thickener for a luxuriously creamy broth.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Lets you control salt while providing a savory backbone.
• Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie makes it easy, and it soaks up all the flavors.
• Potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that make this soup extra hearty.
• Baby spinach: Chopped to bring in bright color and a nutrient boost at the end.
• Half-and-half: Builds dreamy creaminess into every spoonful.
• Whole milk: Makes things just rich enough without going overboard.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): The perfect salty, savory finish—don’t skip it if you can!

How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil and butter together in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once the butter sizzles, add the diced onion, garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft and smell irresistibly fragrant. This first step is where your soup’s flavor foundation begins!

Step 2: Season and Build Flavor

Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and that magical pinch of nutmeg. Let the herbs and spices mingle in the pot for about a minute so they can bloom and intensify, giving the Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup a truly deep, savory aroma.

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed vegetables, then stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This cooks off the raw flour taste and preps your soup for a wonderfully creamy base. Don’t rush this step—you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Gradually whisk in all of the chicken broth to prevent lumps, and then bring the soup to a gentle boil. This is when the kitchen starts to smell like the world’s coziest restaurant! Add your shredded chicken and potato gnocchi. Reduce the heat, and let it all simmer for about 10 minutes, until the gnocchi become soft, tender little pillows and the soup thickens up beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cream

Stir in the chopped baby spinach, half-and-half, and whole milk. Let everything warm through for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup is piping hot. Taste for seasoning, then ladle into bowls and top with plenty of grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy—trust me, you’ll want to.

How to Serve Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Few things beat the sight (and taste) of a bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup finished with a big sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a shower of cracked black pepper. Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a swirl of olive oil for extra flair. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick.

Side Dishes

This soup loves a good crusty bread for dipping—think warm baguette slices, fresh garlic bread, or even pillowy dinner rolls. For a lighter touch, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in sharp vinaigrette to balance out the soup’s creaminess. You can’t go wrong with roasted veggies or even a simple side of olives.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, which soak up every last drop. Small ramekins make for elegant appetizer portions at dinner parties, while family-style serving in a Dutch oven lets guests help themselves—so homey! Use extra Parmesan or fresh herbs on the side so everyone can customize their bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, so you might love it even more the next day.

Freezing

While the soup freezes fine, the texture of gnocchi and spinach can change a bit. For best results, freeze the broth, chicken, and veggies without the gnocchi and spinach. When ready to enjoy, reheat the base, then add fresh gnocchi and spinach just before serving so everything stays soft and vibrant.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often until hot. If it thickens up in the fridge, just add a splash more milk or broth to bring it back to life. Garnish fresh after reheating for best results.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a delicious and time-saving option—it shreds easily and absorbs the creamy broth beautifully, making your Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup even easier to whip up on a busy day.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can! Swap in your favorite gluten-free gnocchi and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Double-check your chicken broth to make sure it’s gluten-free as well.

What if I don’t have half-and-half?

No worries! You can substitute with whole milk for a lighter soup, or use heavy cream for an extra-decadent version. Even a mix of milk and cream works if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works in a pinch. Thaw it first and squeeze out extra water, then add it at the same step as you would the fresh spinach. The flavor will be just as satisfying!

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup keeps all of its creamy, hearty appeal—even without the meat!

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a taste of classic comfort that outshines even your favorite restaurant, don’t wait to give this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup a try. Cozy, creamy, and so rewarding—this is one recipe your family and friends will request again and again. Grab a spoon and dig in—homemade happiness awaits!

Print