Name: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 pound potato gnocchi; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup carrots, shredded; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth, tender bites of chicken, and pillowy gnocchi create a dish that's both satisfying and soothing.

I first discovered this recipe on a particularly cold winter night when I was craving something hearty yet easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, this dish quickly became a family favorite. Now, it's my go-to when I need a cozy meal that comes together in under an hour.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food! This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for feeding the whole family.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy to prepare. You can have this restaurant-quality soup on the table in just 40 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Second, this soup is budget-friendly. With simple ingredients like chicken, gnocchi, and vegetables, you can create a hearty, homemade meal without breaking the bank.

Another reason to love this soup? It's versatile! You can customize it with different vegetables, swap out the protein, or even make it dairy-free if needed.

Finally, it's just plain delicious. The creamy, savory broth paired with the soft, chewy gnocchi is a match made in heaven, and every spoonful is pure comfort.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes it so special:

Chicken is the star of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but chicken thighs work beautifully too, adding extra richness to the broth.

Gnocchi is what makes this soup truly unique. These soft, potato-based dumplings add an irresistible texture. I recommend using store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but homemade gnocchi takes it to the next level if you have the time.

Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.

Vegetables add depth of flavor and nutrition. Carrots, celery, onions, and spinach are my go-to choices, but feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or kale for variety.

Chicken broth serves as the flavorful base of the soup. For the best taste, use a high-quality broth or make your own by simmering leftover chicken bones.

A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal for cooking this soup, allowing enough space for all the ingredients to simmer together perfectly.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a comforting, homemade meal in no time.

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its aromatic flavor.

Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot along with chicken broth. Let everything simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the gnocchi by adding them directly into the simmering broth. They only take about 3-5 minutes to cook – you'll know they're ready when they start floating to the surface.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, followed by a handful of fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly while keeping its vibrant color.

Finally, season the soup with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Let everything simmer for a couple more minutes, then ladle into bowls and serve warm. The total cook time is around 40 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, warm it over medium-low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

For freezing, be aware that gnocchi can become mushy when thawed. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider making it without the gnocchi and adding them fresh when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Variations and Substitutions

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

For a healthier version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like unsweetened coconut milk.

Want a vegetarian option? Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Prefer a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

If you're out of gnocchi, you can replace them with small pasta shapes, rice, or even diced potatoes for a different but equally delicious take.

For extra protein, consider adding crumbled sausage or white beans, which pair wonderfully with the creamy broth.

However you choose to make it, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to be a hit! Don't be afraid to experiment and find the version that best suits your taste.