Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Spoonful Happiness

Published: 31 January 2026

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There are certain meals that feel like a warm hug, and this creamy chicken gnocchi soup is absolutely one of them. It’s the kind of dish that feels perfect on a chilly evening, when the house is quiet, the lights are soft, and all you want is a bowl of something comforting and satisfying. Inspired by the beloved restaurant classic, this homemade version captures that same spoonful happiness while being even fresher and more flavorful.

This soup has long been associated with cozy family dinners and casual lunches shared with friends. The tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and creamy broth come together in a way that feels nostalgic and indulgent at the same time. Making it at home turns a familiar favorite into a personal tradition—one that fills the kitchen with warmth and brings everyone back to the table for seconds.

Why This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Is So Special

What makes this soup stand out is its balance. It’s rich without being heavy, hearty without being overwhelming. The gnocchi provide a soft, comforting texture, while the chicken adds protein and substance. Fresh vegetables bring color and lightness, and the creamy base ties everything together beautifully.

Unlike many cream-based soups, this one doesn’t rely on complicated techniques. Each step builds flavor naturally, making it approachable even for beginner cooks. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or discovering chicken gnocchi soup for the first time, this recipe is designed to deliver consistent, comforting results.

Ingredients That Make the Difference

Using simple, well-measured ingredients ensures the soup turns out creamy, flavorful, and satisfying every time.

Chicken breast: 500 g (about 1.1 lb), cooked and diced
Potato gnocchi: 450 g (16 oz)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Unsalted butter: 30 g (2 tablespoons)
Onion: 1 medium (about 150 g), finely chopped
Celery: 2 stalks (about 100 g), diced
Carrot: 1 medium (about 80 g), finely grated
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
All-purpose flour: 30 g (¼ cup)
Chicken broth: 1 liter (4 cups)
Heavy cream: 480 ml (2 cups)
Fresh spinach: 90 g (3 cups), chopped
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Optional garnish: freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Building the Flavor Base

Begin by placing a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and unsalted butter together, allowing them to melt slowly. As the butter melts, it combines with the oil to create a rich, flavorful cooking base that prevents burning while adding depth to the soup. Once the mixture is gently bubbling and evenly melted, you’re ready to start layering flavors.

Add the finely chopped onion, diced celery, and grated carrot to the pot. These vegetables form the aromatic foundation of the soup. Stir frequently and cook for about 5–6 minutes. During this time, the onion should turn soft and translucent, the celery should begin to release its aroma, and the carrot will melt subtly into the mixture, adding natural sweetness and color. Take your time here—this step sets the tone for the entire soup.

2. Adding Garlic for Aroma

Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stir in the minced garlic. Garlic cooks quickly, so this step only takes about 30 seconds. Stir constantly and watch closely to ensure it doesn’t brown. The goal is to release its aroma and flavor without overpowering the soup. At this stage, the kitchen should be filled with a warm, comforting scent that signals the soup is coming together.

3. Creating the Thickened Base

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the cooked vegetables. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flour to coat the vegetables and absorb the fats in the pot. This step is crucial for thickening the soup later and preventing a raw flour taste. The mixture should look slightly pasty and cohesive, with no dry flour visible. Cooking the flour briefly ensures a smooth, creamy texture in the finished soup.

4. Incorporating the Broth Smoothly

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This gradual process helps prevent lumps and ensures the flour blends seamlessly into the liquid. As the broth is added, the mixture will loosen and transform into a smooth base. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, allowing the flavors to start melding together. Patience here results in a silky, well-balanced broth.

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5. Seasoning and Simmering

Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Let the soup simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the broth will thicken slightly, and the flavors will deepen. This slow simmer allows the herbs to infuse the soup without overpowering the delicate creaminess that will come later.

6. Adding Cream and Chicken

Lower the heat slightly before stirring in the heavy cream. Adding the cream at a gentler temperature helps maintain a smooth, velvety texture. Once the cream is fully incorporated, add the cooked, diced chicken. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This step warms the chicken through and allows it to absorb the flavors of the creamy broth, making each bite tender and satisfying.

7. Cooking the Gnocchi

Add the potato gnocchi directly to the soup. Stir gently to prevent sticking and cook according to the package instructions, usually 2–3 minutes. Gnocchi cooks quickly and will float to the surface when done. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become too soft if left simmering for too long.

8. Finishing with Spinach

Fold in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted. The spinach adds freshness, color, and balance to the rich soup. It should remain vibrant and tender, not overcooked.

9. Final Taste and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or black pepper to suit your preference. Once balanced, remove from heat and serve hot. Each spoonful should deliver creamy comfort, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi in perfect harmony.

Tips for the Creamiest Soup

Use freshly grated carrot instead of diced for better texture and subtle sweetness.
Avoid boiling after adding the cream to maintain a smooth consistency.
If the soup thickens too much, add extra chicken broth in small amounts until desired consistency is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead, but there are a few important tips to keep it tasting fresh. The flavors actually develop beautifully as it sits, making it even more comforting the next day. However, gnocchi tends to absorb liquid over time. If you plan to prepare the soup in advance, consider cooking the soup base with chicken and vegetables first, then adding the gnocchi just before serving. If the gnocchi is already mixed in, simply add extra chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore the original creamy texture.

What kind of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi found in most grocery stores works perfectly for this soup. It holds its shape well and cooks quickly. Refrigerated gnocchi can also be used, but cooking time may vary slightly. Whichever type you choose, be careful not to overcook it, as gnocchi can become too soft if left simmering for too long.

How can I make the soup lighter without losing flavor?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace half of the heavy cream with whole milk. This will reduce richness while keeping the soup creamy. Another option is to increase the amount of vegetables, especially spinach and celery, which adds volume and nutrition without additional heaviness. Be sure to season well, as proper seasoning helps maintain a satisfying flavor even with lighter ingredients.

Can I freeze chicken gnocchi soup?

Freezing is possible, but cream-based soups require special care. The texture may change slightly once thawed, becoming less smooth. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream and gnocchi. When ready to serve, reheat gently, then stir in fresh cream and cook the gnocchi separately before adding them to the soup. This method preserves the creamy consistency and keeps the gnocchi from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with warm bread, soft rolls, or a simple green salad. For a comforting lunch, enjoy it on its own. For dinner, serve it as a starter followed by a light main course. Its creamy texture and gentle seasoning make it versatile enough for any time of day.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience of comfort, warmth, and familiarity. Each spoonful delivers a balance of creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi that feels deeply satisfying without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, sit at the table, and truly enjoy your meal.

What makes this soup especially wonderful is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing meals for the week, or recreating a restaurant favorite at home, it fits effortlessly into your routine. The ingredients are simple, the steps are approachable, and the results are consistently comforting.

Making this soup from scratch also creates a sense of connection—to the food, to the people you share it with, and to the memories formed around the table. Over time, it can become one of those recipes you return to again and again, adjusting it slightly, making it your own, and passing it along.

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers true spoonful happiness, this creamy chicken gnocchi soup is exactly that. Warm, hearty, and made with care, it’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones that stay with us the longest.