If you have a chilly day or just crave something comforting that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy broth infused with herbs and vegetables. Every spoonful is a delightful combination of creamy goodness, subtle herb notes, and satisfying textures that make this soup an instant favorite for gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for cozy, soul-satisfying meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that transform a few pantry staples into something truly special.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéeing vegetables and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds foundational sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that wakes up every bite.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Contributes a pleasant natural sweetness and a pop of orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Brings a slight crunch and aromatic earthiness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the broth into a luscious creaminess.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness and a velvety texture.
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded: Provides tender, protein-packed bites throughout the soup.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that make every spoonful hearty and comforting.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Offers bright green color and a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses subtle herbal warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, fragrant note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every flavor.
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional): A savory finish that adds a touch of richness and umami.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base that will make your soup irresistible.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the raw flour taste to cook out. This little step ensures your soup will thicken up nicely without tasting floury.
Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth combines with the flour and veggies here, starting to transform into a creamy base that holds all the flavors.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Chicken
Now it’s time to add the heavy cream and shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 5 minutes so the herbs can infuse their aroma while the chicken warms through.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they start to float to the top, signaling their pillowy softness and readiness.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Final Seasoning
Lastly, toss in the fresh chopped spinach and let it wilt for a minute or two. This addition adds a fresh green color and a gentle earthiness to the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra layer of savory richness. Get ready to enjoy pure comfort with every spoonful.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe from good to show-stopping. Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish, while a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil brings a burst of color and freshness. For a touch of heat, try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping into that creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness, making the meal feel well-rounded and fulfilling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls that soak up the creamy goodness. Alternatively, use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the spinach and carrots. Adding a small drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving can make your dish Instagram-worthy and irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more beautifully overnight, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
Because of the cream and gnocchi, freezing this soup is a bit tricky. The texture of the cream and gnocchi may change after thawing, becoming slightly grainy or mushy. If you want to freeze it, consider storing the soup base and cooked chicken separately from the gnocchi and spinach. Add fresh gnocchi and spinach when reheating to preserve their texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring regularly to prevent the cream from separating. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power to maintain the texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut for this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Just shred it and add to the soup during the creamy simmering stage. It’ll save you cooking time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly but will still be delicious and comforting.
What type of gnocchi works best in this soup?
Potato gnocchi is the classic choice because of its pillowy texture and subtle flavor, which complements the creamy broth perfectly. Fresh or store-bought gnocchi both work well; just cook them until they float to the top.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, peas, or zucchini to personalize your soup. Just add firmer veggies along with the initial sautée step and quicker-cooking ones closer to the end to maintain the right texture balance.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick or too thin?
If the soup feels too thick, simply thin it out by stirring in a little more chicken broth or cream when reheating. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a true comfort food treasure that combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Its rich, velvety broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi make every spoonful a joy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a solo cozy meal, this soup warms the heart and soul in the best possible way. Give it a try and make this recipe your new favorite for cozy, satisfying dinners!
Print
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy broth infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy family meal, it combines classic flavors with simple preparation for a satisfying soup that cooks in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Thickener and Liquids
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Protein and Pasta
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour flavor, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Add Chicken Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, creating a smooth soup base.
- Mix in Cream and Chicken: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cooked chicken breast, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the soup gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook for 3-5 minutes until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are cooked through.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time for the shredded chicken.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less rich.
- If fresh spinach is not available, frozen spinach can be used; just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
