Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy broth full of flavorful vegetables. This soup is an irresistible option for a cozy dinner, offering the perfect balance of creamy and savory in every spoonful. With its hearty ingredients and velvety texture, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food. The pillowy gnocchi adds a delightful bite, while the tender chicken and vegetables make the soup feel hearty and filling. The creamy broth is rich but not too heavy, making it a satisfying meal without being overwhelming. It’s quick to make, and you can enjoy the flavors of a gourmet soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup has everything you need!

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top.
Add Chicken and Spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Finish the Soup: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with more salt and pepper, to taste. The soup should be creamy and well-seasoned. If the soup is too thick, you can add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or corn to make the soup even heartier.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this soup gluten-free.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this soup?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly fine. Simply add it directly to the soup and follow the same cooking instructions.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this soup! They are more flavorful and juicy, and they will make the soup even richer.

5. How do I prevent the gnocchi from getting too mushy?

To prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy, make sure to follow the package instructions and avoid overcooking. Gnocchi typically cooks in just a few minutes once it floats to the top.

6. Can I add other herbs to this soup?

Definitely! You can experiment with herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley to adjust the flavor to your liking.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie chicken or leftovers to speed up the process. Just add the chicken in step 6 when you return it to the pot.

8. Can I add cream cheese to make it richer?

Yes, adding a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese can make the soup even creamier and add a slight tangy flavor.

9. Can I use homemade chicken broth for this recipe?

Yes, homemade chicken broth will add extra depth of flavor to the soup. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning, as homemade broth may be less salty than store-bought options.

10. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño to the soup for a little heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy, flavorful broth. With a variety of vegetables, savory herbs, and a rich texture, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, can be customized to your taste, and is perfect for meal prep or serving on a chilly night. Warm up with this deliciously creamy soup—it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile!