Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly day. This hearty, restaurant-style soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to serve on a Sunday evening, this soup is always a winner. It’s easy to make in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a depth of flavor that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
This recipe brings together classic Italian flavors with a homemade touch, featuring fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and soft potato gnocchi that soak up all the deliciousness of the broth. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly flavorful.
Best of all, it’s completely customizable. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences, whether you want to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or add your favorite vegetables for an extra nutrient boost.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Made in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Inspired by Olive Garden’s famous version but made better at home.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with maximum comfort food vibes.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances out the richness.
- White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: It cooks fast! Add it near the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Make it Thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it in before adding the cream.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating.
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Chicken & Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the soup and let it cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes, until tender.
- Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow it to heat through without boiling.
- Finish with Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Common Questions
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply replace the chicken with white beans or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Variations & Alternatives
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Throw in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a more nutrient-packed dish.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar for extra creaminess.
- Lighter Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream and lean chicken breast for a healthier alternative.
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers big on flavor. Let us know in the comments if you try it and how you customized yours!
