How to Make Olive Garden’s Famous Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy, cozy, and full of flavor, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a restaurant favorite that’s easy to recreate at home. This lightened-up version keeps all the rich, comforting taste while using smart swaps for a healthier, more balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy & Comforting: A velvety, flavorful broth with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi.
Lighter Ingredients: Uses lean protein, reduced-fat dairy, and added veggies.
One-Pot Meal: Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
Better Than Takeout: Homemade freshness with a fraction of the calories.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1 (16-ounce) package whole wheat or cauliflower gnocchi
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the Chicken & Broth:

• Stir in the shredded chicken and pour in the chicken broth.
• Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Bring to a gentle simmer.

Thicken the Soup:

• In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water together until smooth.
• Stir into the soup and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.

Add the Gnocchi & Spinach:

• Stir in the gnocchi and let it cook according to package directions (usually 3-5 minutes).
• Add chopped spinach and let it wilt into the soup.

Finish & Serve:

• Stir in the almond milk or low-fat milk.
• Adjust seasoning if needed and let the soup heat through for 2 more minutes.
• Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 40g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g

Tips for a Healthier Version

• Use Whole Wheat or Cauliflower Gnocchi: A lighter alternative to regular gnocchi.
• Swap Heavy Cream for Almond or Low-Fat Milk: Reduces fat while keeping it creamy.
• Go Lean with Chicken Breast: Keeps the protein high and fat low.
• Boost the Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or kale for extra nutrients.

Why This Recipe Works

• Light Yet Satisfying: A creamy, hearty soup without the extra calories.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!

This homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a lighter, yet equally delicious version of the restaurant classic. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s creamy, comforting, and full of nutritious ingredients!