Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. This rich and velvety soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious broth infused with garlic, herbs, and cream. Every spoonful is a cozy hug in a bowl.

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I first fell in love with this soup after trying it at a small Italian café, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few tweaks, I landed on a version that's just as indulgent but incredibly easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to add this to your list of go-to comfort meals. This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make.

First, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you need something quick yet satisfying. There's no need to simmer for hours—this soup delivers incredible flavor in no time.

It's also packed with wholesome ingredients. Lean chicken, fresh veggies, and potato gnocchi make this soup both nourishing and hearty, without feeling too heavy.

Plus, it's a one-pot wonder! That means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a win in my book. Less cleanup, more time to relax.

And if you love meal prepping, this soup is a dream. It stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect creamy texture and well-balanced taste.

Chicken – I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein option. However, you can also use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap in chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Gnocchi – These little potato dumplings add a unique texture that sets this soup apart from other creamy chicken soups. You’ll find gnocchi in the pasta aisle or refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Both shelf-stable and fresh varieties work well.

Vegetables – A classic mix of onions, carrots, and celery adds depth and a slight sweetness to the soup. Fresh spinach is another must—it wilts beautifully into the broth and brings a pop of color and nutrients.

Heavy Cream – This is what makes the soup ultra-creamy and indulgent. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but the texture will be slightly thinner.

Chicken Broth – A good-quality broth is key to building the base of the soup. If you want extra richness, opt for a homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version so you can control the salt level.

A large Dutch oven or stockpot is all you need to bring everything together effortlessly.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, and everything comes together in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil and sauté your diced onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of the soup.

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it releases its wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn it! Then, add your chicken breasts and pour in the chicken broth. Let everything simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and easy to shred.

Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return it to the pot along with your gnocchi, allowing them to cook directly in the broth. This step only takes a few minutes—gnocchi cook quickly and will start floating when they’re done.

Now, pour in the heavy cream and toss in the fresh spinach. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple more minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup reaches a creamy, dreamy consistency.

Finish by seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian herbs to enhance all the flavors. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and some crusty bread on the side.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.

For refrigeration, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to stir it well when reheating, as the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid.

If you’d like to freeze it, keep in mind that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate upon thawing. To freeze, store the soup without the gnocchi and cream, then add them fresh when reheating. This way, your soup will taste just as good as when you first made it.

When reheating, warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the consistency is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to its original texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few delicious variations to try.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk. It will still be rich and creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.

For a low-carb option, replace the gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. This keeps the soup light while still giving you a satisfying bite.

Want to add extra protein? Stir in cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.

If you don’t have fresh spinach, kale or Swiss chard make excellent substitutes. Just be sure to cook them a little longer since they’re heartier greens.

Finally, if you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little heat.

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a new favorite in your household!

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