Name: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 pound potato gnocchi; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. With its rich, velvety broth, tender chunks of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, this dish is a restaurant favorite that you can easily recreate at home.

I first fell in love with this soup at a well-known Italian restaurant, but after experimenting in my kitchen, I discovered how simple and satisfying it is to make from scratch. Now, it's a staple in my home, especially when I need a quick yet hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to add this soup to your regular meal rotation! Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy night in.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a pot of rich and creamy soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

It’s also budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand—use turkey instead of chicken, or add extra veggies to boost the nutrition.

Finally, this soup is comfort in a bowl. The combination of creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and savory chicken makes every spoonful a warm and satisfying treat.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, texture, and taste.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to choice. They cook quickly and shred easily, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal.

Gnocchi: These soft potato dumplings add a wonderful pillowy texture. You can find them in the pasta aisle, but homemade gnocchi also works beautifully if you have extra time.

Vegetables: A mix of diced carrots, celery, and spinach brings both color and nutrition to the soup. The spinach wilts perfectly into the creamy broth, adding a hint of freshness.

Cream and Broth: A combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a rich, velvety base. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk.

Seasonings: Garlic, thyme, and a touch of nutmeg elevate the flavor, giving the soup a cozy depth of taste.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home is easier than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in your diced carrots, celery, and onions. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to develop.

Next, add the garlic and seasonings. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Now, it’s time to add the chicken. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, place them in the broth and let them cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Stir in the gnocchi and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You'll know they’re done when they float to the top. Then, reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.

Finally, add the spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The gnocchi will continue to absorb the broth, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

Freezer: While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly. If freezing, consider making the base ahead of time and adding fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the cream to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to switch it up to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free gnocchi.

Add extra protein: Try using shredded turkey, sausage, or even white beans for a hearty variation.

Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Adding mushrooms can create a satisfying umami depth.

Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will add a little kick.

Low-carb version: Substitute cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles to reduce the carb content while still keeping the soup deliciously creamy.

With so many ways to customize, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own!