Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Quick & Comforting Dinner

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is comfort food in a bowl. Think of it as a cozy sweater you can eat—rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach all coming together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or need something to satisfy picky eaters at home, this soup is your go-to. The best part? It tastes like something from your favorite Italian restaurant, but you can whip it up without even changing out of your yoga pants. Yes, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup really is that simple and satisfying.

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What is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty Italian-American dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s a broth-based soup thickened with heavy cream, layered with shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and onions, then finished with potato gnocchi and fresh spinach. Parmesan adds that salty, nutty kick, rounding out the flavors beautifully. Some folks know it from Olive Garden’s menu, but making it at home is quicker, cheaper, and dare I say—better. Plus, you control the ingredients, so it’s easy to keep gluten-free or spice it up if you’re feeling adventurous.

Reasons to Try Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Why bother making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup when takeout is just a phone call away? First, it’s ready in half an hour—faster than waiting on delivery. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser; from kids to grandparents, everyone’s bowl magically empties. Third, it’s versatile. Got leftover turkey from the holidays? Toss it in. Want more veggies? Add mushrooms or zucchini. And finally, this soup hits the sweet spot of comfort and convenience, making weeknight dinners something to actually look forward to.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When it comes to making a pot of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, the ingredients are what transform this dish from a simple chicken soup into a rich, satisfying comfort meal. Each item plays a role in building layers of flavor, texture, and creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp): The foundation for sautéing vegetables. It adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps release the natural sweetness of onions, carrots, and celery.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): A must for soup bases—onions bring depth and a natural sweetness that balances the creaminess.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic adds a sharp, savory bite and elevates the aroma of the soup.
• Carrots (2, diced): Their mild sweetness not only adds color but also balances the savory broth.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced): Classic in soups for its earthy undertones and crunchy bite before softening.
• Dried Thyme (½ tsp): This herb adds a subtle, woodsy flavor that enhances poultry-based soups.
• Dried Oregano (½ tsp): Earthy and slightly peppery, oregano rounds out the Italian-inspired flavors.
• Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (½ tsp): The classic seasoning duo—don’t skip tasting and adjusting as you cook.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups): The heart of the soup. Opt for a good-quality broth or homemade stock for best results.
• Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded): Tender, shredded chicken gives the soup its satisfying protein. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully when you’re short on time.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is where the creamy part comes in. It gives the soup its velvety, luxurious texture.
• Potato Gnocchi (1 lb): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the broth while adding a hearty bite. You can also find gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe friendly for everyone.
• Fresh Spinach (2 cups): A pop of green for both nutrition and color. It wilts perfectly into the warm soup without overpowering it.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty finish that pulls everything together.

If you love soups that build flavor from fresh ingredients, you’ll also enjoy my Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup—another cozy favorite that pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Cooking Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is as comforting as eating it. The steps are straightforward, but each one builds flavor and texture that makes the final bowl irresistible. Follow these step-by-step directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. This is the base layer of flavor. Next, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for 5 minutes as the vegetables release their natural sweetness and become tender. The smell at this stage will already have your kitchen feeling cozy.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss everything together, coating the vegetables in the fragrant herbs. This simple seasoning step ensures your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup has depth from the very beginning.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. The broth will soak up all the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Don’t rush this part—letting the broth warm through creates the foundation for that creamy, savory taste we’re after.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

Now, stir in 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken and the 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Lower the heat slightly and let the soup simmer for 5–7 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the surface as they cook, becoming tender and pillowy. Be careful not to overcook them, or they can get mushy.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, and you’ll instantly see the broth transform into a velvety, rich base. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt for 2–3 minutes. The spinach not only brightens the color of the soup but also adds freshness to balance the creaminess.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Turn off the heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the broth. This step gives Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that nutty, savory finish that ties everything together. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s piping hot. Pair it with warm bread, garlic knots, or even a light salad. If you want more cozy soup inspiration, my White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili is another comfort-food favorite that brings a slightly sweet and savory twist.

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dunking. If you’re leaning into the Italian vibe, add a crisp Caesar salad or garlic knots. For lighter sides, roasted veggies or a simple arugula salad cut through the richness. If you’re on team carb-lover, cheesy breadsticks or focaccia will make the meal extra cozy. And don’t forget—this soup is indulgent enough to shine solo if you just want to curl up with a bowl and a spoon.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

First, don’t overcook the gnocchi—they only need a few minutes, or they’ll turn mushy. Second, use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time; it adds flavor and saves effort. Third, if you prefer a lighter version, swap half-and-half for heavy cream. Want to add more veggies? Mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale fit right in. For extra punch, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon at the end balances the richness beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Store leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gnocchi can get a bit soft, so if you plan to freeze the soup, hold off on adding them until you reheat. To warm it up, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often so the cream doesn’t separate. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to bring back that velvety texture. Avoid microwaving on high—it can make the gnocchi rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes, just wait to add the gnocchi until reheating.

Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be—just use gluten-free gnocchi.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the soup won’t be as rich. Half-and-half is a nice compromise.

How do I thicken the soup more?
Let it simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 Tbsp cornstarch + 2 Tbsp water).

Can I swap the protein?
Absolutely! Turkey or even mild sausage works beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and downright satisfying, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. It’s quick, flexible, and makes everyone happy at the dinner table. Plus, it’s proof that homemade comfort food doesn’t need to take all night. Next time you’re torn between ordering in or cooking, remember: in just 30 minutes, you could be ladling this hearty goodness into your own bowl.

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