If you’re in the mood for something cozy, soul-warming, and thoroughly satisfying, you’re going to fall in love with this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Imagine pillowy gnocchi, tender shreds of chicken, sweet carrots, and leafy spinach, all swimming together in a luxuriously creamy, herby broth. It’s everything a comfort food lover could wish for in one steaming bowl – and yes, it comes together simply on your stovetop. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or just a little self-care on a chilly day, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is always the answer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one of those magical recipes where simple ingredients come together to create incredible flavor. Each component adds something special, from color and texture to rich, savory depth. Here’s what you’ll need (and why):
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of fruity richness and helps the veggies sauté beautifully.
- Butter: Brings classic creaminess and rounds out the flavor base.
- Yellow onion: Lays the foundation with sweet, aromatic undertones.
- Garlic cloves: Two minced cloves bring a mellow, savory punch you’ll notice in every bite.
- Carrots: Offer both color and gentle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Celery stalks: Essential for classic soup flavor and that satisfying crunch.
- Dried thyme: Infuses the soup with an herby, woodsy aroma that feels so comforting.
- Dried basil: Adds a subtle floral note and depth to the broth.
- Black pepper: Gives a mild zesty kick without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt: Brightens up all the other flavors and makes everything shine.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, making it delightfully creamy.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: The base of the soup that ties everything together and lets you control the saltiness.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease, or poach your own for homemade goodness.
- Potato gnocchi: The star! Soft, pillowy dumplings that make this soup so satisfying.
- Fresh baby spinach: Wilts into the soup, adding vibrant color and a hint of earthiness.
- Half and half: Delivers that signature creamy richness without being too heavy – you can swap in milk if you’re looking to lighten it up.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in for a savory, nutty finish that just can’t be beat.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming the olive oil and butter together in a large soup pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and give everything a good stir. Let these veggies cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they’ve softened and your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible. This is where the soul of the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup begins!
Step 2: Add Herbs and Seasonings
Sprinkle the dried thyme, basil, black pepper, and salt into the pot. Stir well so all those cozy, herby flavors start mingling with the sautéed veggies. This little step really builds the soup’s flavor from the ground up.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Now, sprinkle your flour evenly over the vegetables. Stir constantly for about a minute – this cooks off that raw flour taste and ensures your finished soup will be smooth, not pasty. The flour acts as the thickener for your creamy broth.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Gradually add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring all the while to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will start to look like a luscious, lightly thickened soup. Once all the broth is in, bring it to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
Stir in your shredded chicken and potato gnocchi. Let these simmer gently for about 7 to 8 minutes. You’ll know the gnocchi are ready because they’ll puff up and rise to the surface, becoming tender and delicious.
Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
To finish the soup, gently fold in the baby spinach, half and half, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes decadently creamy. Take a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – every bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup should taste just right.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Garnishes
Add a finishing flourish to your bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a twist of freshly cracked black pepper, or even a scattering of fresh chopped parsley. These little touches add color, flavor, and the feeling that you’re eating at your favorite cozy café.
Side Dishes
This soup is rich and hearty enough to shine on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it with a warm, crusty loaf of bread or homemade garlic breadsticks. A crisp green salad on the side is always a lovely, refreshing counterpoint to the velvety soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, ladle the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup into wide, shallow bowls and top with microgreens or delicate herbed croutons. Hosting friends? Serve the soup in mini mugs or shooter glasses as an appetizer. For lunchboxes or meal prep, portion into thermoses so everyone gets a warm, comforting lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you wind up with extra Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (lucky you!), allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to three days, and honestly, the flavors get even better with a little time to mingle.
Freezing
While this soup can be frozen, be aware that the gnocchi and dairy may change texture slightly once thawed. If preparing specifically for freezing, consider leaving out the gnocchi and half and half until after reheating; add them fresh for the best results. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
Reheating
To gently reheat Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened up in the fridge, just add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the creaminess silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works beautifully for this recipe. It cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious flavors from your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
You can! Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to use gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available. You’ll barely notice the difference in taste or texture.
How can I make this soup lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute whole milk (or even 2 percent milk) for the half and half. You’ll get a slightly less rich soup, but it stays satisfyingly creamy and full of flavor.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Any cooked, shredded chicken will do. Rotisserie chicken is a popular shortcut, while poached or roasted chicken breast works great too. If you have leftover roast chicken, pop it right in!
How do I prevent the soup from getting too thick?
The gnocchi tend to absorb liquid as the soup sits, so if it thickens up too much, simply stir in a little more broth or milk when you reheat. This keeps every bowl just as creamy as the first.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup — it’s pure comfort in every spoonful. Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving that homemade, heartwarming goodness. I can’t wait for you to taste just how delicious a simple pot of soup can be!
