This creamy, comforting Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables—better than takeout!
When that creamy, cozy craving hits, there’s nothing like a bowl of Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup to satisfy your soul. This homemade version is richer, creamier, and packed with fresh ingredients that make it next-level comfort food. If you’ve ever found yourself craving a bowl from your favorite Italian spot, let me tell you—this one is even better.
This recipe comes together with tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a velvety broth infused with garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of creaminess. The best part? It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hug in a bowl. Serve it with warm, buttery breadsticks (yes, I’m giving you the full experience!) and get ready for your family to ask for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Creamy & Comforting – Just like the restaurant version but with fresher, richer flavors.
✔️ Easy & Quick – Made in one pot and ready in just 30 minutes.
✔️ Better Ingredients – You control the quality, using fresh veggies and real cream.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this Chicken Gnocchi Soup stand out:
- Chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast
- Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy potato gnocchi
- Vegetables – Carrots, celery, onion, and fresh spinach
- Garlic & Herbs – Garlic, thyme, and Italian seasoning
- Broth & Dairy – Chicken broth and heavy cream for that velvety texture
- Mozarella Cheese – Because everything is better with a little cheese
How to Make Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1️⃣ Sauté the Veggies – Cook onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until softened.
2️⃣ Add the Chicken & Broth – Stir in shredded chicken, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer.
3️⃣ Cook the Gnocchi – Toss in the gnocchi and let them cook until soft and fluffy.
4️⃣ Make it Creamy – Pour in heavy cream and stir in spinach until wilted.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy – Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve with warm breadsticks!
Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken skin and bones removed, shredded
- 2 carrots shredded or chopped small
- 1 white onion chopped
- 2 stalks of celery chopped
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bag fresh spinach
- 1 16 oz container mini gnocchi
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about one minute to cook out the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to combine.
- Add the milk and heavy cream, then season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the shredded rotisserie chicken and gnocchi.
- Cook for about 5 minutes or until the gnocchi is tender and floats to the top.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with mozzarella cheese and a side of warm breadsticks.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
✔️ Use Rotisserie Chicken – A time-saver that adds rich flavor.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi – They cook fast! Add them near the end to keep them tender.
✔️ Customize It – Swap spinach for kale, or add mushrooms for extra depth.
✔️ Storage Tip – This soup thickens as it sits—just add a splash of broth when reheating!
Serve This With…
🥖 Garlic Breadsticks – To soak up all that creamy goodness.
🥗 A Crisp Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
🍷 A Glass of White Wine – Because why not?
Ready to Make It?
Trust me, once you make this Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll never go back to the restaurant version. Save this recipe for cozy nights, meal prep lunches, or when you just need a bowl of pure comfort. Try it out and let me know how you like it!
📌 Pin this for later! And if you make it, tag me on Instagram @natashagreene so I can see your cozy creations.
