We all know that warm and comforting feeling of enjoying Olive Garden's famous chicken gnocchi copycat olive garden recipes soup. Those tender potato dumplings swimming in a rich creamy broth alongside perfectly seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables create an irresistible combination that keeps us coming back for more.
Now we'll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen. Our copycat recipe captures all the authentic flavors and textures you love without the need to leave your house. It's so close to the original that you'll have trouble telling them apart - olive garden gnocchi soup no chicken and the best part is you can make a bigger batch to enjoy whenever those cravings strike.
What Makes Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup Special
The signature elements of Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup create a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional cream-based soups. The combination of pillowy potato gnocchi, tender chicken pieces, and fresh vegetables in a velvety broth delivers a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Key components that define this beloved soup include:
- Hand-rolled potato gnocchi that maintain their shape while remaining light and tenderPerfectly seasoned Italian herbs, including thyme, rosemary and sagePremium chicken breast pieces cut into uniform, bite-sized portionsFresh vegetables like spinach, carrots and celery for added textureRich cream-based broth enhanced with roasted garlic and onionCarefully balanced seasoning that brings out each ingredient's natural flavors
The soup's consistency stands out through:
- A silky-smooth broth that coats each spoonfulAl dente gnocchi that retain their structure without becoming mushyPrecise vegetable cuts that ensure even cookingA balanced ratio of ingredients in each serving
The soup maintains its temperature effectively due to the cream-based broth's thermal properties, allowing each spoonful to deliver consistent warmth and comfort throughout the dining experience.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Copycat Recipe
Creating an authentic-tasting Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup starts with selecting premium ingredients that mirror the restaurant's quality standards. The foundation of this creamy soup relies on specific components that work together to create its signature taste.
Choosing the Right Gnocchi
Store-bought potato gnocchi offers convenience without compromising quality when selecting DeCecco or Delallo brands. Fresh gnocchi from specialty Italian markets provides optimal texture with a light, pillowy consistency. The gnocchi's size matters - select small to medium-sized pieces (approximately 1-inch) that cook evenly while maintaining their shape in the soup.
Essential Herbs and Seasonings
The soup's distinctive flavor profile comes from:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (2-3) added during cookingDried Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon) containing oregano, basil, and marjoramFresh minced garlic (4-5 cloves) for aromatic depthBay leaves (2) for background warmthWhite pepper (1/4 teaspoon) for subtle heatSea salt (to taste) for flavor enhancement
- 4 tablespoons butter for sautéingMirepoix (1 cup each of diced onions, carrots, celery)1/3 cup all-purpose flour for thickening8 cups low-sodium chicken broth2 cups half-and-half for creaminess1 pound diced chicken breastFresh spinach leaves (2 cups)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup comes together in two main phases: creating the creamy base and incorporating the protein and vegetables.
Creating the Creamy Base
Heat 4 tablespoons butter with 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heatAdd 1 diced onion, 3 celery stalks and 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 5-8 minutes until tenderSprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a rouxPour in 4 cups chicken broth gradually while whisking to prevent lumpsBring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmerAdding Chicken and Vegetables
Add 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast to the simmering brothStir in 2 cups shredded carrots and 16 ounces potato gnocchiPour in 2 cups half-and-half, stirring to combineAdd 2 cups fresh spinach leavesSeason with:- 1 teaspoon dried thyme1 teaspoon dried basil1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper1 teaspoon salt
Note: For optimal texture, avoid overcooking the gnocchi and spinach.
Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results
Quality Ingredients Matter
Premium ingredients create an authentic Olive Garden taste experience. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels. Select fresh potato gnocchi from Italian markets or trusted brands like DeCecco for optimal texture.
Perfect Base Creation
- Start with equal parts butter and olive oil to build a rich foundationSauté aromatics (onion, celery, garlic) until translucent before adding flourCreate a smooth roux by whisking flour continuously for 2-3 minutesAdd broth gradually while whisking to prevent lumps
Temperature Control
- Heat cream or half-and-half to room temperature before adding to prevent curdlingMaintain a gentle simmer throughout cooking at 180-185°FAvoid boiling after adding dairy products
Timing and Texture
- Cook gnocchi just until they float to the surface (2-3 minutes)Add spinach last to preserve its bright colorTest gnocchi texture with a fork - they're done when tender but still firm
Seasoning Balance
- Layer seasonings throughout cooking rather than adding all at onceTaste and adjust salt levels after soup thickensAdd white pepper for warmth without visible specks
Storage Tips
- Cool soup completely before refrigeratingStore gnocchi separately when making aheadReheat gently over medium-low heatAdd fresh cream while reheating to restore original consistency
This structured approach incorporates the context while maintaining engagement and providing specific, actionable information for readers creating this copycat recipe at home.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Refrigeration Storage
Proper storage of copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup requires cooling it to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. The soup stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored correctly.
Reheating Instructions
The soup reheats effectively using two methods:
Stovetop Method:
- Heat the soup over medium heatStir occasionally to prevent stickingCook until thoroughly heated
Microwave Method:
- Place soup in a microwave-safe bowlHeat in 30-second intervalsStir between each intervalContinue until heated through
Consistency Adjustments
- Chicken brothMilk
Conclusion
We're confident this copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. The rich creamy broth paired with tender gnocchi and perfectly seasoned chicken creates a restaurant-worthy dish that's both comforting and satisfying.
With our detailed instructions and helpful tips you'll master this beloved soup in no time. Whether you're cooking for family dinner serving guests or meal prepping for the week this recipe delivers consistent delicious results every time.
So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the familiar taste of Olive Garden's famous soup right at home. Your taste buds will thank you!