There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. The rich, velvety broth, tender bites of chicken, and pillowy gnocchi create a combination that's both hearty and satisfying. This is the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and savor every spoonful.

I first discovered this soup on a family trip to a cozy Italian bistro, and it quickly became a favorite. After several attempts at recreating it at home, I finally landed on the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Now, this creamy, dreamy soup is a regular feature in our household, especially when we need a little warmth and nourishment.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall in love with a soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just delicious—it's a lifesaver on busy days and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and minimal prep, you'll have a restaurant-quality soup ready in under 40 minutes. No complicated techniques required!

This soup is also budget-friendly. It uses simple, wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and gnocchi, making it an affordable way to feed your family without sacrificing flavor.

Not to mention, it's perfect for meal prep. The flavors only deepen over time, so leftovers taste just as amazing the next day. It’s a great make-ahead option for lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Finally, it’s versatile! You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste—swap in different proteins, adjust the thickness of the broth, or add extra veggies for a nutritional boost.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every component plays a key role in creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully in this soup. Thighs add extra richness, while breasts keep it leaner. Either way, the chicken remains tender and juicy as it simmers in the broth.

Gnocchi: These soft, potato-based dumplings add heartiness to the soup. You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own if you're feeling adventurous. Either way, they soak up the creamy broth beautifully.

Vegetables: A mix of diced onions, carrots, and celery forms the base of the soup, adding depth and sweetness. Fresh spinach is stirred in at the end for a pop of color and nutrients.

Broth & Dairy: A combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a luscious, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, though the consistency may be slightly thinner.

Seasonings: Garlic, thyme, and a touch of nutmeg elevate the flavors, giving the soup a cozy, aromatic depth. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste!

For the best results, use a large Dutch oven or stockpot to ensure even cooking and enough room for the ingredients to meld together perfectly.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal ready in no time.

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.

Next, add your chicken breasts or thighs directly to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is fully submerged. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the gnocchi, allowing them to cook for about 3-5 minutes until they float to the surface and become tender.

Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream along with chopped fresh spinach. Let everything warm through, but avoid boiling to prevent curdling. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.

Allow the soup to thicken slightly as it sits for a few minutes before serving. The total cook time is just around 35-40 minutes, making this an ideal meal for busy weeknights.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup store beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option.

To refrigerate, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. The gnocchi may absorb some of the broth, so you can add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

For freezing, it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi and cream. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat, and then add fresh gnocchi and cream.

To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If needed, add extra broth to adjust the consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.

Want to make it gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

To add more vegetables, try stirring in mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients while adding more texture to the soup.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for extra heat.

For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s just as hearty and satisfying!

The possibilities are endless—don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe truly your own!