When the weather cools down—or when comfort is simply calling—this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup delivers soul-soothing warmth in every spoonful. Tender potato gnocchi float in a rich, velvety broth alongside juicy shredded chicken, spinach, garlic, and herbs. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal yet gentle and creamy without being too heavy. Inspired by the classic Olive Garden version (but better at home!), this soup is made with simple ingredients and comes together in one pot. It’s perfect for cold nights, meal prep lunches, or feeding a hungry family with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Restaurant-style comfort at home: Just as satisfying, more affordable.
Creamy, rich, and full of texture: Gnocchi adds a pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth element.
One-pot simplicity: Minimal cleanup for maximum reward.
Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully for cozy meals all week.
Easy to adapt: Add mushrooms, carrots, or swap in turkey for a twist.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Think of this as your pre-game checklist—gather the goods before the action starts.
Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing, adding a rich flavor to the soup.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
Carrots: Diced carrots contribute a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery: Diced celery adds crunch and a fresh, earthy flavor.
Dried thyme: This herb infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic essence.
Dried oregano: Oregano complements the thyme, giving a classic Italian flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
Chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a savory base.
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the soup creamy and indulgent.
Potato gnocchi: These little dumplings are the star, adding a delightful texture.
Fresh spinach: A handful of spinach adds color and nutrients, wilting beautifully in the soup.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or toss in other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. The aroma will be inviting! Next, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano, along with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Step 2: Add Chicken Broth
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. This simmering process should last about 10 minutes. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory backdrop for the soup. You’ll notice the vegetables softening and the broth becoming rich and aromatic.
Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Cream
Once the broth has simmered, it’s time to add the shredded chicken. Stir it in gently, allowing it to warm through. Then, pour in the heavy cream, mixing it well to create that luscious, creamy texture. This is where the magic happens! The soup transforms into a comforting delight, perfect for chilly evenings.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Next, stir in the potato gnocchi. These little dumplings will cook quickly, usually within 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they float to the top. This is a sign that they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness. The gnocchi adds a delightful chewiness to your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cheese
Finally, it’s time to add the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir them into the soup until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the broth. This final touch not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color. Your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is now ready to be served hot, bringing warmth and comfort to your table!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the gnocchi.
Don’t skip the fresh spinach; it adds both flavor and nutrition.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; a little extra salt or pepper can make a difference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for making your soup. A Dutch oven works great too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
Measuring cups: Handy for measuring out your ingredients accurately.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping your veggies with ease.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Sausage Swap: Replace the shredded chicken with cooked Italian sausage for a spicier kick.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding more veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat that complements the creaminess.
Low-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
Wine: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, to complement the creaminess.
Garnish: Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Freezing is possible, but the gnocchi may become mushy when thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the gnocchi fresh when you reheat the soup.
What can I substitute for chicken? If you want to switch things up, cooked sausage works wonderfully. You can also go vegetarian by using chickpeas or lentils for protein.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about three days. Just remember to reheat it gently!
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition to your soup.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of warmth and comfort. Each spoonful is a reminder of cozy nights spent with family, laughter echoing around the table. The creamy texture and savory flavors wrap around you like a favorite blanket, making even the coldest days feel inviting. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this soup brings joy and satisfaction. So, grab your ingredients and let this delightful recipe become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
