If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comforting meal, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is pure magic in a bowl. Imagine pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and a luxurious broth layered with veggies—the kind of soup that makes you want to grab the biggest spoon you own and settle in. It’s the culinary equivalent of wrapping yourself in your favorite fluffy blanket, and each creamy, cheese-laced bite is more satisfying than the last. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or aiming to impress family and friends, this dish has your back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients come together to create such an irresistible dish. Each component brings something wonderful—from comforting aromatics to hearty textures and vibrant colors, making this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup unforgettable.
- Butter: The base of rich, smooth flavor that also helps sauté the vegetables to silky perfection.
- Olive oil: Adds extra depth and keeps the butter from burning during the first crucial steps.
- Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and a savory backbone to the soup.
- Garlic: Infuses the broth with that irresistible aromatic warmth.
- Carrots: For natural sweetness and beautiful color contrast in every bowl.
- Celery: Adds fresh crunch and rounds out the mirepoix for a classic soup base.
- All-purpose flour: The magic thickener that gives the broth its signature creamy texture.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides savory depth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Whole milk: Enhances the creaminess while keeping things beautifully balanced.
- Heavy cream: Extra richness—this is that luxurious touch everyone loves!
- Italian seasoning: A burst of herby flavor that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all those lovely flavors to life.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken.
- Potato gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi makes this dish super easy and delightfully pillowy.
- Fresh baby spinach: Brightens the soup and adds a pop of green nutrition.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch, melting into the soup for a deeply savory, cheesy finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter and olive oil together in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until those veggies begin to soften—they should smell absolutely irresistible at this stage, and you’ll see the onions turn translucent, signaling the perfect moment to move forward.
Step 2: Thicken the Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Give everything a good stir for one minute to coat the veggies and cook out that raw flour flavor. This step is key to achieving that signature thick and creamy texture for your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth first—take your time so the flour blends smoothly—then add the milk and heavy cream. Stir in the Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let the pot come to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the broth to thicken slightly and those flavors to start mingling beautifully.
Step 4: Bring in the Gnocchi and Chicken
Stir in your shredded chicken and potato gnocchi. Let the soup simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are perfectly tender. This moment is when Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup really starts to come together, with pillowy gnocchi soaking up every drop of that velvety broth.
Step 5: Toss in Spinach and Cheese
Just before serving, add the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is melted into pure creamy bliss. Taste and adjust the seasoning for that perfect final balance.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Garnishes
Let your soup shine with a little flourish! Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on each bowl and crack a bit of black pepper over the top. A scattering of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to all that creaminess.
Side Dishes
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup plays perfectly with a simple mixed green salad, crusty garlic bread, or warm focaccia. The soup’s richness loves a fresh, crisp side to balance things out, and you definitely want something to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, try serving the soup in individual bread bowls for a fun, edible twist. For a family-style feel, ladle the soup into a big tureen and let everyone dig in together. Edible bowls made from baked Parmesan crisps also make for a striking and delicious presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even further overnight, making for an even cozier next-day meal.
Freezing
While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi and creamy base can change after thawing. If you know you’ll want to freeze some, consider adding the gnocchi fresh after reheating so everything tastes just-made.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling it, as this can cause the cream to separate. If the soup thickens after chilling, simply add a splash of broth or milk to bring it back to your perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds a rich, roasted flavor. Just shred the meat and add it when the recipe calls for cooked chicken.
Can I substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half works well if you want a slightly lighter soup. The consistency will still be creamy, just a touch less rich.
What can I use instead of potato gnocchi?
If gnocchi isn’t handy, try small pasta shapes like orecchiette or mini shells. While not quite the same, these shapes catch the soup’s creaminess in every bite.
Does the soup reheat well?
It certainly does! Just reheat gently over low heat and add more broth or milk if needed. Since gnocchi soak up liquid, a little added moisture brings it back to life.
How can I make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup a bit spicier?
A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a swirl of hot sauce works wonders for a subtle kick. Add it to individual bowls so everyone can tailor their bowl to their heat preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that brings people together and makes dinnertime feel special. If you’re craving a meal that’s as luscious as it is comforting, this recipe won’t disappoint. Give it a try soon—you and your loved ones are in for a serious treat!
Print
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that combines tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and wholesome veggies in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
Main Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1½ cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Saute Veggies: In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle in flour, stir for 1 minute.
- Stir in Liquids: Whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Chicken & Gnocchi: Stir in chicken and gnocchi. Simmer until gnocchi are tender.
- Finish Soup: Add spinach and Parmesan. Stir until wilted. Adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if preferred.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *