Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Are you ready to dive into a warm bowl of comfort? My Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal that will satisfy your cravings like no other. With simple, fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up a dish your whole family will love. Stick around to learn how to make this soul-soothing soup, along with tips for customizing it to fit your taste. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: This soup is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich and creamy texture that warms you from the inside out.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Ingredients: This soup can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty soup, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
List of Fresh Ingredients
To make this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, gather these fresh ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach
Pantry Staples Needed
You will also need these pantry staples:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 16 oz potato gnocchi
– Salt and pepper to taste
Recommended Garnishes
For a tasty finish, consider these garnishes:
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– A drizzle of olive oil
– Fresh herbs for added flavor
This dish is all about balance. The fresh ingredients bring brightness, while the pantry items add depth. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Sautéing the Aromatics
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add one medium onion, diced into small pieces. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in two cloves of minced garlic, two diced carrots, and two diced celery stalks. Cook this mix for another 5 minutes. This step builds a great base of flavor for your soup.
Cooking the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the chicken. Cut one pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken to the pot. Sauté the chicken, stirring occasionally. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This browning adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Simmering and Incorporating the Gnocchi
Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Sprinkle in one teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried oregano. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld nicely. After that, stir in one cup of heavy cream and 16 ounces of potato gnocchi. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes. The gnocchi will rise to the surface when they are cooked through. Finally, fold in two cups of fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Enjoy the rich aroma as you prepare this hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
To get that rich and creamy texture, use heavy cream. This adds depth to the soup. Stir it in after the broth and herbs simmer. Let it cook a bit longer to blend the flavors. If you want a lighter option, you can mix in some whole milk. Just don’t skip the cream completely, as it gives the soup its signature taste.
Storing Leftovers Effectively
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about three days in the fridge. When you reheat, add a splash of chicken broth. This keeps the soup from becoming too thick. If you want to freeze it, do so without the cream. The cream can separate when thawed. Add it in when you reheat the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the gnocchi. They only need a few minutes to cook. If they sit too long, they become mushy. Also, avoid adding too much salt at the start. The broth already has salt, so taste it first. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh spinach. It brightens the dish and adds great flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your soup. Consider adding fresh thyme or basil just before serving for an aromatic touch.
- Perfect Gnocchi Cooking: To ensure your gnocchi are perfectly cooked, wait until they float to the surface of the soup. This indicates they are done!
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or corn, or substitute with your favorites to make the soup your own.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store the soup without the gnocchi. Reheat and add fresh gnocchi to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Variations
Substituting Ingredients for Dietary Needs
You can easily adjust this soup to fit dietary needs. For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with a mix of half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re lactose intolerant, try almond milk or coconut milk. Both give a creamy texture without dairy.
Variations for Different Flavor Profiles
To switch up the flavor, add herbs like basil or rosemary. You can also toss in spices, such as paprika or red pepper flakes for heat. Want a twist? Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken. It saves time and adds a smoky flavor.
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options
For a gluten-free soup, check your gnocchi. Many brands offer gluten-free choices made from rice or corn flour. If you want a dairy-free option, skip the cheese garnish or use nutritional yeast. This gives a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Storage Info
How to Store Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, reheat it gently. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing Tips and Timeframes
Freezing creamy chicken gnocchi soup can be easy. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top. This lets the soup expand as it freezes. It will keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid refreezing any soup that has already been thawed.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi in this soup. Fresh gnocchi adds a delightful texture. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the soup. If you choose to make them from scratch, wait until the soup is almost done. Add the gnocchi during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they will stay soft and delicious.
What can I serve with creamy chicken gnocchi soup?
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:
– Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch.
– Garlic bread: A savory option to complement the soup.
These sides balance the richness of the soup and enhance your meal.
How do I make the soup ahead of time?
You can make this soup ahead of time, which is great for meal prep. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the soup: Make it up to the point before you add the gnocchi.
2. Cool it down: Let the soup cool completely before storing.
3. Store in the fridge: Keep it in an airtight container. It lasts up to 3 days.
4. Reheat and add gnocchi: When ready to serve, heat the soup and add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the top. This keeps the gnocchi from becoming mushy.
We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips for creamy chicken gnocchi soup. You learned how to make it creamy and store leftovers well. Plus, we explored tasty variations to suit your taste.
Try using fresh herbs or different proteins for a unique twist. This soup can fit many diets and is easy to store. Enjoy making this dish your own with these insights. Happy cookin

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- to taste salt and pepper
- for serving grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery into the pot. Continue to cook the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pot. Sauté the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano. Bring the soup to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir the heavy cream into the simmering soup, followed by the potato gnocchi. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi rise to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
- Gently fold in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted and brightened in color.
- Adjust the flavor of the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, savory finish.

