Name: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 16 oz potato gnocchi; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Here's a rich and comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that will warm you from the inside out. This cozy dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, velvety broth packed with flavors of garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something more satisfying than a regular chicken soup. After a bit of experimenting, this version became a staple in my household, requested by family and friends alike.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you want in a homemade meal—hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

One of the best things about this soup is how quick and easy it is to make. In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve. Perfect for weeknights when time is short but you still crave something homemade.

It’s also budget-friendly without sacrificing taste. Using simple pantry staples like chicken, broth, and gnocchi, you can create a filling meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.

This soup is incredibly versatile. Whether you want to swap out the protein, add extra veggies, or adjust the level of creaminess, this recipe is easily adaptable to your taste.

Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, satisfying dish.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and remain tender when shredded. However, if you prefer extra flavor, you can use chicken thighs instead.

Gnocchi is the heart of this dish, giving it a soft, pillowy texture. You can use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience, or if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi takes it to the next level.

For the broth, a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates the perfect balance between richness and lightness. If you want a slightly lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half.

Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and freshness to the soup. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with kale or even omit it altogether.

A blend of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning infuses the soup with deep, savory flavors. Don’t skip these, as they provide the essential foundation for the taste.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is easier than you think, and it all comes together in one pot for easy cleanup.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. This step releases their natural sweetness and builds the first layer of flavor.

Next, add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the chicken cook until lightly golden on the outside, but don’t worry about cooking it through completely—it will finish cooking in the broth.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let the chicken fully cook, about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it before returning it to the pot.

Add the gnocchi directly into the broth. Let them cook for a few minutes until they become soft and start floating, which means they’re perfectly done.

Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt and the soup to reach a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

From start to finish, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is ready in about 35 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. However, keep in mind that the gnocchi may soften further upon thawing, so you may want to add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility—you can easily customize it based on what you have on hand.

For a healthier version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or Greek yogurt to keep the creaminess while cutting down on dairy.

If you prefer a different protein, try using shredded rotisserie chicken for an even faster prep time, or swap it for turkey to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.

For a veggie-packed variation, add carrots, celery, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and texture of the soup.

Want to spice things up? A dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of pesto can add an extra layer of flavor.

However you customize it, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to be a new favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again!