If you are looking for a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe has everything you need. It combines tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy broth bursting with herbs and Parmesan, creating a deliciously satisfying experience that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy solo meals. The balance of flavors and textures in every spoonful makes it an instant favorite worth making again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential in crafting the rich taste and inviting texture of the soup. Each one, from the aromatic vegetables to the creamy dairy and tender gnocchi, plays its part in bringing depth and color to this classic recipe.
- Butter: Adds a silky richness to sauté the vegetables and build the soup’s base.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, savory foundation that deepens the flavor.
- Garlic: Offers a fragrant aroma and subtle pungency to enhance the broth.
- Carrot: Contributes a hint of natural sweetness and a touch of vibrant orange.
- Celery stalk: Adds a mild earthiness and a little crunch to balance softness.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Delivers hearty protein and comforting texture.
- Chicken broth: Forms the savory, flavorful liquid base for the soup.
- Heavy cream: Enriches the broth, lending a luscious, velvety quality.
- Whole milk: Lightens the cream just enough for a smooth consistency.
- Potato gnocchi: Tender dumplings that soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
- Fresh spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a healthy green boost.
- Dried thyme: Brings an earthy, aromatic note that complements the chicken.
- Dried basil: Lends gentle herbal warmth to the flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances and elevates all the tastes in the soup.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle spice and depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the soup with a nutty, savory punch.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery. These vegetables soften and release their flavors into the butter, creating a fragrant and flavorful base. Cook them gently for about five to six minutes until they become tender and aromatic, setting the stage for the rest of the soup.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Next, add your shredded cooked chicken along with chicken broth, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper straight into the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This allows the herbs to infuse their essence into the broth while the chicken warms through, layering more savory depth into your soup.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Once your broth is bubbling softly, stir in the potato gnocchi. These little pillows of dough are quick cooks and will float to the top when done, which usually takes about three to four minutes. This step adds the element of soft, chewy comfort that distinguishes this soup and makes it irresistibly hearty.
Step 4: Cream It Up
Lower the heat to prevent boiling, then pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently to combine. This turns your broth into a luxuriously creamy soup without overpowering the delicate flavors. Let it simmer gently for three to four minutes to meld everything smoothly together.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a fresh, vibrant green contrast while the Parmesan melts into the broth, heightening the savory richness. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed, then it’s ready to warm your soul!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your creamy creation into bowls and prepare for compliments! This moment is all about sharing comfort and joy, whether you garnish it or serve it as is.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a pinch of cracked black pepper, or some chopped fresh parsley instantly elevates the presentation and flavor. These little finishing touches bring an herbaceous brightness and that irresistible umami pop that perfectly complements the creamy base.
Side Dishes
For an unforgettable meal, serve this soup alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, balancing the creamy richness of the soup with fresh, crisp textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, try serving the soup in individual bread bowls or hollowed-out mini pumpkins to wow guests. Garnishing with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add an unexpected zing that makes this recipe uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because the gnocchi can absorb broth over time, it might thicken the soup slightly, so a quick stir and gentle reheat will bring it back to its perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this soup later, freezing is an option but with a heads-up: potato gnocchi can sometimes become a bit soft or mushy after freezing and thawing. To minimize this, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or curdling. If the soup feels too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up without losing that creamy appeal.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, offering juicy shredded chicken that enhances the soup’s flavor and texture effortlessly.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor and texture but still yield a creamy, delicious soup.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time for a gathering?
Yes, you can make the soup base in advance and add the gnocchi and spinach just before serving to keep everything fresh and perfectly textured for your guests.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just chop them finely and add them later in the cooking process so they wilt nicely without becoming too tough.
How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this beloved Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and coming together in just about 30 minutes makes it perfect for busy weeknights or easy weekend treats. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the warmth it brings — whether with family, friends, or yourself on a quiet evening. You’re going to love every creamy, comforting bite.
Print
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, hearty dish loaded with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines the richness of cream and Parmesan with aromatic herbs, making it both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook these ingredients until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Build the Broth: Add the shredded cooked chicken, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook uncovered until the gnocchi float to the surface, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This indicates they are cooked through and tender.
- Cream It Up: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Let the soup simmer gently for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Finish: Add the chopped fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir well until the spinach wilts and the soup has a creamy consistency. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or omit cream entirely.
- Fresh gnocchi can be used if available, adjusting cook time accordingly.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard for variation.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.
