Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Here's something warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious—Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This rich, velvety soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, flavorful broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little comfort food magic.

this Recipe

I first made this soup on a whim, trying to recreate a favorite restaurant version at home. After a few tweaks and taste tests, I landed on the perfect combination of creaminess, heartiness, and just the right amount of herbs. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen, and once you try it, it might become yours too.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with a soup that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat.

This recipe is surprisingly quick and easy. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table with minimal effort.

It’s super comforting. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi make every spoonful feel like a warm embrace—ideal for those cozy nights in.

If you're watching your budget, this dish is affordable and filling. With simple ingredients like chicken, broth, and store-bought gnocchi, you can serve a crowd without spending a fortune.

And let’s talk about versatility. You can easily tweak this recipe to fit dietary needs—swap out the chicken for turkey, use dairy-free alternatives, or throw in extra veggies for a nutrient boost.

Once you try this, it’ll become one of those recipes you keep coming back to, no matter the season.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup comes from a handful of simple ingredients that work together to create something truly special.

Chicken is the star of the show, and I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option. However, chicken thighs add an extra depth of flavor and stay incredibly juicy in the broth. If you have rotisserie chicken on hand, that works great too and makes this recipe even easier.

For the broth, a mix of chicken stock and heavy cream gives this soup its signature richness. If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture will be slightly less creamy.

Gnocchi is what makes this soup extra hearty. Store-bought potato gnocchi works beautifully here, but if you have homemade gnocchi, even better. Just be sure to add it at the right moment so it stays soft without overcooking.

To build flavor, onions, garlic, and celery create a fragrant base that enhances every bite. A touch of Italian seasoning ties everything together, adding that classic, comforting flavor profile.

And for an extra pop of color and nutrients, fresh spinach gets stirred in right at the end. It wilts beautifully into the soup, adding a fresh contrast to the creamy richness.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is easier than you’d think, and the results are nothing short of amazing.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in diced onions, garlic, and celery, sautéing until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the broth.

Next, add your chicken breasts directly to the pot, followed by chicken broth. Let them simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.

In the same pot, stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Then, add your gnocchi, letting them cook until they become soft and pillowy—this usually takes just a few minutes.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly without overcooking it. Give everything a final taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The result? A creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort food perfection.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this soup stores beautifully.

For short-term storage, place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Reheating is simple—just warm the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a little extra broth or cream to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. The soup will still be creamy but with a slightly different texture and taste.

If you prefer a low-carb option, you can substitute the gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. These will still give the soup some body without the extra carbs.

Want extra protein? Try adding crisped-up bacon or diced sausage for a smoky, savory twist. This adds a whole new depth of flavor that’s irresistible.

To boost the veggies, stir in extra ingredients like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. The more, the merrier when it comes to adding nutrients and color.

And if you need a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add white beans for a bit of plant-based protein.

No matter how you customize it, this soup is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and see why it’s become a favorite in so many kitchens.

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