Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe lovers know—there’s something magical about a bowl of creamy soup on a chilly evening. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine walking through the door after a long day, greeted by the aroma of garlic, simmering broth, and tender chunks of chicken. It’s the kind of dish that slows down time, pulls everyone to the table, and leaves only quiet satisfaction in its wake.
This guide walks you through how to create the perfect bowl of this beloved comfort food—from gathering simple ingredients to serving it up with restaurant-quality flavor. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just craving something cozy, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe delivers warmth, richness, and a taste of home in every spoonful.
Table of Contents
What Makes Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe So Popular?
A Beloved Classic with Universal Appeal
The Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe has become a favorite in homes and restaurants alike—not just for its creamy texture, but for how it brings comfort and nourishment in one simple bowl. It’s the kind of soup that feels luxurious without being complicated. With juicy chicken, soft potato gnocchi, crisp veggies, and a velvety cream base, it’s no wonder people return to this recipe over and over again.
This soup hits just the right note—hearty enough to satisfy, yet light and delicate in flavor for a perfectly balanced bowl. The gnocchi adds a pillowy bite, while the tender chicken and sautéed aromatics create a flavor foundation that’s rich but never heavy. It’s comforting, familiar, and easy to customize, which adds to its widespread appeal.
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Provides protein and heartiness.
- 1 cup Diced carrots Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 cup Diced celery Gives a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 small Onion, diced Brings aroma and taste.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances overall flavor.
- 4 cups Chicken broth The base of the soup.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Creates the creamy texture.
- 1 package Gnocchi (16 ounces) The fluffy dumplings that make this soup unique.
- 2 cups Fresh spinach Adds color and nutrients.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds a lovely aroma and taste.
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare them by chopping vegetables and cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add gnocchi to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes until they float to the top.
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes. Then, pour in heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
The Secret Behind Its Restaurant-Level Flavor
One of the reasons this soup is so beloved is because of how closely it mimics a restaurant-quality meal. Inspired by the Olive Garden favorite, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe takes simple ingredients and elevates them into something truly craveable. The key lies in layering flavors: starting with a sauté of onions, garlic, celery, and carrots, then slowly building richness with chicken broth and heavy cream.
Even the herbs—especially Italian seasoning and a hint of nutmeg—play a quiet but important role. They infuse the soup with its signature aroma and flavor, creating a blend that’s both comforting and elegantly gourmet. Add to that the fluffy texture of cooked gnocchi and the freshness of spinach stirred in at the end, and you’ve got a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
Key Ingredients in the Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Building Blocks of the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
The heart of any great Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe lies in its ingredients. You don’t need anything extravagant—just a well-balanced mix of fresh, quality staples. Each element contributes to the creamy texture, satisfying bite, and comforting flavor this soup is famous for. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | Sauté base for vegetables, adding depth and richness |
| Chicken breast | Main protein—lean, tender, and flavorful |
| Onion, carrot & celery | Classic aromatic trio for soup base |
| Garlic | Boosts savoriness with robust, warm flavor |
| Chicken broth | Flavor carrier and soup base |
| Heavy cream | Creates the rich, silky texture |
| Gnocchi | Soft potato dumplings that soak up the creamy broth |
| Fresh spinach | Adds nutrition, color, and freshness |
| Salt, pepper, herbs | Brings balance and Italian-style flavor |
Choosing Quality Ingredients for the Perfect Bowl
To make your Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe shine, start with fresh, whole ingredients:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are popular, but for added juiciness and deeper flavor, opt for chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi saves time and works beautifully. Fresh gnocchi gives a softer, more delicate bite. Gluten-free versions are available too!
- Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth lets you control salt levels while building layers of flavor. Homemade broth is even better if time allows.
- Cream: Heavy cream ensures a smooth, luxurious texture. You can sub with half-and-half for a lighter version, but don’t skimp if you want that signature richness.
- Veggies: Start with the classics—fresh onion, carrots, and celery—for a rich, full-bodied base. Baby spinach makes a perfect green addition; it wilts beautifully and blends right in. If the leaves are large, give them a quick chop.
Flavor Boost Tip
Drop in a parmesan rind while the soup simmers. As it slowly melts, it releases a deep, savory umami that takes the broth to the next level.
Discover more comforting flavors in our White Chicken Chili—a perfect companion recipe when you’re craving hearty, creamy dishes.
Step-by-Step Preparation Process for Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Organize Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to prep and organize all your ingredients—having everything ready to go makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Keeping everything chopped, measured, and within reach will make cooking faster and more fun.
Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:
- Olive oil
- Boneless, skinless chicken (cubed)
- Diced onion, carrots, and celery
- Minced garlic
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Gnocchi (store-bought or fresh)
- Fresh spinach
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
Pro Tip: Short on time? Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat, letting it heat up until it shimmers slightly—ready for the flavors to begin. Add the cubed chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.
This step does more than just cook the chicken—it leaves behind delicious browned bits at the bottom of the pot, laying the groundwork for a deeply flavorful soup base.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if the bottom looks dry. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their savory aroma. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to keep it from burning.
This fragrant veggie base is the heart of your Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe—laying the foundation for a rich, layered flavor that makes the whole dish shine.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir, allowing the flavors from the sautéed vegetables to meld seamlessly into the rich, savory base. Bring to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
This gentle simmer softens the veggies even more and gives the broth time to deepen into a rich, cohesive flavor.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Cook Until Tender
Drop the gnocchi into the pot and let them simmer in the broth for 3–5 minutes, until they rise to the surface and turn perfectly tender. Gnocchi cooks quickly—once it floats to the top, it’s done! Be careful not to overcook, or it can become mushy.
This step transforms the soup into a creamy, comforting bowl filled with pillowy gnocchi in every bite.
Step 6: Finish with Cream, Spinach, and Chicken
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to blend it into the broth, adding a rich, velvety texture to the soup. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. Let the soup cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs as needed.
Looking for more hearty soups? Try our Sausage Tortellini Soup for another creamy, comfort-filled favorite!
Pro Tips for Making the Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Even Better
Use the Freshest Ingredients You Can
Great flavor starts with fresh produce and good-quality protein. Crisp celery, vibrant carrots, and leafy spinach bring life to this creamy dish. Choose organic if possible, and always use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced—it makes a big difference.
Chicken tip: Boneless thighs offer more moisture and depth than breasts. For a shortcut with no flavor loss, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully too.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
One of the most common mistakes in any Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is overcooking the gnocchi. These soft dumplings cook fast—usually in just 3–5 minutes. Once they float to the top, they’re done. If left too long, they become mushy and fall apart, diluting your creamy base.
Pro move: Add the gnocchi right before serving if you’re cooking in advance.
Layer Your Seasoning
Season in layers—from the moment you sauté the aromatics to when you stir in the broth, and again after the cream. Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of nutmeg are essential. Nutmeg might seem surprising, but it quietly enhances the creamy base with warm, subtle depth.
Taste at the end and adjust. Soup always needs a final check for balance.
Simmer Low and Slow After Adding Cream
Once you stir in the cream, lower the heat and let the soup gently simmer—not boil. This prevents separation and lets the flavors come together into one silky, unified broth.
Want a thicker soup? Simmer a few extra minutes uncovered. Want it thinner? Add a splash of extra broth.
Add a Flavor Booster Like Parmesan
For added depth, stir in grated parmesan at the end or toss in a parmesan rind during simmering. It melts slowly, releasing savory umami and elevating every bite.
Discover more flavor-layering ideas in our Garlic Bread Elevates Any Meal article—ideal for pairing with creamy soups!
Creative Variations of Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Make It Vegetarian Without Sacrificing Comfort
Yes, you can still enjoy a hearty Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe—without the chicken! For a delicious meatless version, simply swap the poultry with vegetables that add texture and richness.
Try using:
- Sliced mushrooms for umami and chew
- Zucchini or yellow squash for bulk
- White beans for added protein and creaminess
Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian, and don’t hold back on herbs—thyme and basil add a fresh, aromatic depth that brings the whole dish to life. You can also toss in extra spinach or kale for even more color and nutrition.
Flavor Tip: Add a splash of soy sauce or a spoonful of nutritional yeast to boost umami—bringing a savory depth that echoes the richness of meat without using any.
Try a Gluten-Free Version Without Losing Texture
Going gluten-free? You can still enjoy the comfort of this creamy, soul-warming dish. Here’s how to adapt your Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe:
- Use gluten-free gnocchi (readily available in most supermarkets)
- Ensure your chicken or vegetable broth is certified gluten-free
- The rest—veggies, cream, herbs—are naturally gluten-free!
To prevent gnocchi from becoming too soft, add them just before serving. Gluten-free versions are often more delicate, so handle with care.
Add a Little Heat or Extra Protein
If you like your soup with a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño during the sauté step.
Looking to make it heartier? Add one of these:
- Crumbled cooked Italian sausage for a rich, spicy twist
- Shredded rotisserie chicken for quick protein
- Cannellini beans or chickpeas for extra fiber and a creamy finish
Serving Suggestions That Enhance the Soup Experience
Pair It With Fresh, Crusty Bread
Nothing completes a comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe like a warm, crusty slice of bread. A rustic baguette or a loaf of sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. The crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi and tender chicken.
Pro tip: Toast slices with a little garlic butter and parmesan for a simple yet flavorful upgrade.
Serve With a Light, Crisp Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a fresh green salad. Try mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the creaminess of the soup, making the meal feel complete but not heavy.
You can also explore our Garlic Bread Elevates Any Meal post for a side that pairs perfectly with creamy dishes like this.
Top It Off with Fresh Herbs or Cheese
Garnishes make a big difference. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or chopped parsley adds color, flavor, and a touch of elegance. If you want a bit more zest, try a few cracks of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes right before serving.
Presentation tip: Serve the soup in a deep white bowl to highlight its creamy texture and vibrant colors.
Make It a Cozy Meal Night
This soup shines as the centerpiece of a cozy dinner. Add a candle, a soft playlist, and serve it in large mugs or soup bowls with handles for a charming, café-style touch. Whether it’s a family dinner, date night, or solo comfort meal, it turns a simple recipe into a full experience.
Don’t miss our Soft and Fluffy French Bread—an ideal companion for soaking up every last drop of this delicious soup.
Storing and Reheating the Soup Without Losing Creaminess
Refrigerating for Maximum Freshness
After making your Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the soup in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as enjoyable—sometimes even better.
Storage tip: If possible, store the gnocchi separately from the broth and veggies. Gnocchi tends to absorb liquid over time, which can thicken the soup or make the dumplings mushy.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
Yes, you can freeze this soup—but with a few caveats. Cream and gnocchi don’t always freeze well together. For best results, freeze the base soup without the gnocchi and cream, and add those fresh when reheating.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Freeze in individual portions using airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
- Label with date and use within 2 months for the best quality.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove. Add gnocchi and cream during the final minutes to maintain the soup’s signature texture and taste.
Reheating Without Losing Texture
To reheat, transfer the soup to a pot and warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through and creamy again. Avoid boiling—too much heat can cause the cream to separate and the gnocchi to break down.
If the soup has thickened in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
Microwave tip: Reheat in 60-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent hotspots and preserve the soup’s smooth texture.
Check out our Homemade Loaded Potato Soup for another great recipe that stores and reheats like a dream.
Nutritional Breakdown of Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
A Comforting Dish with Balanced Calories
The Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is rich and satisfying, but it’s also surprisingly balanced when served in proper portions. A typical serving (about 1½ cups) contains between 300 to 350 calories. That’s just the right amount for a hearty lunch or a light dinner—especially when paired with a fresh salad or a piece of crusty bread.
Most of the calories come from the gnocchi, cream, and chicken, but the inclusion of vegetables like spinach, carrots, and celery helps add volume and nutrients without piling on extra calories.
Packed with Protein for Lasting Fullness
Each serving provides approximately 20–25 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken and cream. That makes this soup an excellent choice for anyone needing a satisfying, high-protein meal.
Protein helps keep you full longer and supports muscle repair, energy levels, and overall wellness. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this soup helps fuel your day.
Watch the Sodium—But It’s Easy to Adjust
Store-bought chicken broth and packaged gnocchi can add a decent amount of sodium, averaging 800–900 milligrams per serving. To reduce this, choose low-sodium broth and use unsalted butter or seasoning blends to control flavor without going overboard on salt.
With just a few tweaks, you can tailor the soup to your nutritional needs without compromising on taste.
A Note on Fats and Carbs
This isn’t a low-fat or low-carb soup—but it’s all about balance. If you’re watching either one, here are a few quick swaps:
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
- Try cauliflower gnocchi to reduce carbs and boost fiber
- Skip the bread and serve with extra leafy greens for a lighter pairing
These minor adjustments let you keep the creamy, comforting flavor of your Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe, while aligning it with your health goals.
Conclusion: Why This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
There’s a reason the Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe continues to be a favorite across kitchens everywhere—it delivers comfort, warmth, and flavor in every single spoonful. With its creamy base, tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, this dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that feels homemade and heartwarming.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a comforting weekend lunch, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is flexible, forgiving, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for different diets, making it a smart choice for just about any table.
From tips on reheating and storing to creative variations and nutrition facts, this guide gave you everything you need to make the best version of this comforting classic at home.
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FAQs about Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
What goes in Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
A classic Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe typically includes tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, diced carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered in a creamy chicken broth base. It’s finished with fresh spinach and Italian seasoning to bring warmth, richness, and a balanced, herby flavor. Heavy cream or half-and-half is key to achieving that signature creamy texture, adding richness and body to every spoonful.
Should you cook gnocchi before adding to soup?
No need to pre-cook the gnocchi—just add it straight to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. It only takes 3 to 5 minutes to cook in hot broth. You’ll know it’s ready when the gnocchi floats to the surface. Pre-cooking may result in over-soft or mushy dumplings.
What gnocchi does Olive Garden use?
While Olive Garden hasn’t publicly revealed the brand, they use a traditional potato gnocchi, likely made in-house or sourced from a bulk supplier. For your homemade version, any store-bought potato gnocchi (shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen) works beautifully. You can even use gluten-free or cauliflower gnocchi as a substitute.
Does Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup have milk?
Yes. Olive Garden’s version includes dairy, typically in the form of half-and-half or heavy cream, giving it that signature rich, creamy texture. If you’re dairy-sensitive or vegan, you can swap the cream with unsweetened coconut milk, oat cream, or cashew cream for a similar consistency.