Description

This Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy and comforting dish inspired by the beloved restaurant favorite. Featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and shredded carrots in a rich, flavorful broth thickened with a touch of butter, flour, and half-and-half, this soup is perfect for cozy nights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauté Base

4 tablespoons Butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup finely diced onion
1/2 cup finely diced celery
2 garlic cloves, minced

Thickener and Dairy

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 quart half-and-half

Broth and Seasonings

28 ounces chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus additional for seasoning

Vegetables and Protein

1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
1 cup spinach leaves (coarsely chopped)
1 cup chicken breast (cooked and diced)
16 ounces package ready-to-use gnocchi

Instructions

Heat the Butter and Olive Oil: Melt the butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This combination provides a flavorful base for the soup.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Flour and Half-and-Half: Whisk in the all-purpose flour to coat the sautéed vegetables and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half, stirring continuously, then let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly.
Incorporate Chicken Broth and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Allow the soup to simmer again until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir in salt, dried thyme, dried parsley flakes, and nutmeg if using.
Add Vegetables, Chicken, and Gnocchi: Stir in the shredded carrots, chopped spinach, diced cooked chicken, and gnocchi. Continue to simmer the soup until everything is heated through and the gnocchi is tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and season with additional salt if needed. Serve hot, enjoying the comforting, creamy flavors.

Notes

You can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream or whole milk for a richer or lighter soup, respectively.
Use store-bought cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Fresh spinach can be swapped for kale or Swiss chard for variation.
If gnocchi is not readily available, small pasta like mini shells or tortellini can be used instead.
For a thicker soup, simmer a few extra minutes; to thin, add more chicken broth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, creamy chicken soup, homemade chicken gnocchi soup, comfort food soup