Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. This rich and hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy soft gnocchi, and a velvety cream-based broth infused with garlic and herbs. With each spoonful, you'll experience a cozy blend of flavors that will instantly make you feel at home.

I first discovered this recipe on a trip to my favorite Italian restaurant, where their chicken gnocchi soup was the ultimate comfort food. Determined to recreate it at home, I experimented with different ingredients and methods until I landed on this perfect version. Now, it's a staple in our household, especially when the temperatures drop.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite soup. This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make.

First, it's a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up. Everything comes together in a single pot, making it a stress-free dinner option.

It's also quick and easy, ready in about 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking on a busy weeknight or prepping for a cozy weekend dinner, this soup fits perfectly into your schedule.

Plus, this soup is restaurant-quality, bringing the flavors of your favorite Italian eatery right into your kitchen. You won’t believe how easy it is to achieve that signature creamy texture and rich taste at home.

Best of all, it's family-friendly. Even picky eaters will love the combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy, flavorful broth.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect taste and texture.

Chicken is the heart of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for their tender and juicy texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a shortcut.

Gnocchi adds a soft, pillowy texture to the soup. Store-bought gnocchi is a great option, but if you're feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi takes this soup to another level.

The broth is a blend of chicken stock and heavy cream, creating that signature creamy base. You can lighten it up by substituting half-and-half or even whole milk, though the soup will be less rich.

Aromatic garlic, onion, and celery provide a flavor-packed base. Sautéing them first enhances their sweetness and depth, adding layers of flavor to the soup.

Finally, a handful of fresh spinach gives the soup a pop of color and added nutrition. If you’re not a fan of spinach, kale works well as a substitute.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think. Let’s go step by step to ensure your soup turns out perfect.

Start by sautéing the aromatics. In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the diced onion, celery, and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is essential for building the soup’s depth of flavor.

Next, cook the chicken. Add diced chicken breasts or thighs to the pot, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Let them cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once simmering, add the gnocchi and cook for a few minutes until they float to the top – a sign they’re perfectly cooked.

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream, letting the soup thicken slightly. Be careful not to let it boil at this stage, as dairy can sometimes separate if overheated.

Finally, add a handful of fresh spinach, stirring until wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then serve hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

For refrigeration, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.

If you want to freeze it, be aware that creamy soups can sometimes change texture after thawing. To help prevent separation, freeze the soup before adding the cream, then stir it in when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. If it's too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

Want to add more protein? Try stirring in some cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.

If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, substitute the gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.

For a veggie-packed soup, add diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

No spinach on hand? Swap it out for kale or Swiss chard, both of which hold up beautifully in this creamy broth.

Experiment with different variations, and you’ll find that this soup can be customized to fit any craving!

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