Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Cozy and Comforting Meal

December 4, 2025August 6, 2025 by Charlotte

If you’re craving a warm hug in a bowl, creamy chicken gnocchi soup is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and rich broth into a cozy meal. I’ll guide you through easy steps to make this comforting soup right at home. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find tips to perfect your recipe and make it your own. Let’s get started on your new favorite dish!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This creamy soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: The soup can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or protein, making it a flexible choice for any palate.
Deliciously Creamy: The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and satisfying texture that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 1 pound chicken breast, diced

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 cups fresh spinach

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

You can add some extra flavor with these optional ingredients:

– 1 bay leaf for depth

– A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

– Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish

– Red pepper flakes for a little heat

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

If you lack some ingredients, try these swaps:

– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter taste.

– Swap chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for faster prep.

– You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup.

– If you don’t have gnocchi, small pasta like ditalini works well too.

Finding the right ingredients makes your creamy chicken gnocchi soup just right. Enjoy the cozy comfort it brings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps Overview

To make this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, you will need to gather your ingredients. First, chop your onions, carrots, and celery. Dice the chicken breast into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Prepare everything before cooking. This will help your cooking go smoothly.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This oil adds flavor and helps cook the vegetables.

2. Sauté the Onion: Add your diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes. When the onion turns translucent, it’s ready for the next step.

3. Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: Now, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

4. Cook the Chicken: Next, add the diced chicken breast. Cook it until there is no pink left, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for depth of flavor.

5. Pour in Chicken Broth: Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend.

6. Add Gnocchi: Now, add one package of potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. You know it’s done when the gnocchi floats to the top.

7. Stir in Cream and Spinach: Add one cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well.

8. Mix in Parmesan Cheese: Finally, remove the pot from heat. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and blends into the soup. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed.

Final Touches Before Serving

Once your soup is ready, serve it hot in large bowls. For a beautiful touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This makes the soup look inviting and adds a burst of flavor.

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfect Your Soup

To make your creamy chicken gnocchi soup just right, focus on fresh ingredients. Fresh vegetables add nice flavors. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery well. This step builds a good base for your soup. Cook them until they are soft, but don’t let them brown.

When you add the chicken, cook it until it’s no longer pink. This ensures safety and taste. Season your soup with dried thyme and oregano. These herbs add depth to your dish. Adjust salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor.

Time-Saving Cooking Tips

To save time, prep your ingredients first. Dice your onion, carrots, and celery in advance. This way, you can cook them quickly. Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry. This cuts down cooking time.

You can also use frozen gnocchi. It cooks fast and tastes great. Keep an eye on the soup while it simmers. You want to get the flavors right without overcooking the gnocchi.

Recommended Cooking Equipment

You need some basic tools to make this soup. A large pot or Dutch oven is best for cooking. It holds all your ingredients and distributes heat evenly. A sharp knife helps with chopping vegetables. A wooden spoon works well for stirring.

If you have one, a ladle makes serving easier. A measuring cup is great for the chicken broth and cream. Finally, a grater is handy for the Parmesan cheese. These tools will help you create a tasty soup quickly and easily.

Pro Tips

Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
Chicken Cooking: Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Gnocchi Cooking: Gnocchi is done cooking when it floats to the top of the soup; avoid overcooking to keep them light and fluffy.
Adjusting Creaminess: For a lighter soup, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream alternative.

Variations

Alternative Protein Options

You can change the chicken to fit your tastes. Try diced turkey for a leaner choice. Shrimp also works well if you like seafood. For a rich flavor, use sausage. Cook it first, then add it to the soup. Each protein adds a new taste and texture to the dish.

Vegetarian/ Vegan Adaptations

You can make this soup meat-free easily. Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils. These give it protein and fiber. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For creaminess, try coconut milk or cashew cream. Fresh veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers add depth. This way, you keep all the flavor without meat.

Creative Add-Ins or Flavor Twists

Want to jazz up your soup? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for a bright taste. You could also toss in some diced tomatoes for a splash of color. If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For extra greens, throw in kale or zucchini. Each twist makes the soup more exciting and unique.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, let it cool first. Store it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to label your container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, use a pot over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it warm evenly. If the soup seems too thick after storage, add a splash of broth or cream.

Freezing Tips for Longer Preservation

If you want to save the soup for later, freezing is a great option. Use a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for a warm, comforting meal.

FAQs

Common Questions About Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

What is creamy chicken gnocchi soup?

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a rich dish. It has tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies. The broth is creamy and full of flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day before. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

Best Sides to Serve with This Soup

What pairs well with creamy chicken gnocchi soup?

This soup goes well with crusty bread, salad, or garlic bread. A light green salad adds freshness to the meal.

Are there any good sides to avoid?

Avoid heavy sides like fried foods. They can make the meal too filling and rich.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

What are the main nutrients in this soup?

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup has protein from chicken and cheese. It also offers fiber from veggies like carrots and spinach.

Is it healthy?

This soup can be part of a balanced diet. Use low-fat cream and add more veggies for a healthier version.

Are there any dietary concerns?

This soup contains dairy and gluten. If you’re lactose intolerant or gluten-free, use suitable substitutes.

This blog post covered all key points for making creamy chicken gnocchi soup. We explored the best ingredients and how to swap them for unique flavors. The step-by-step guide ensures you’ll cook it perfectly every time. Plus, I shared tips to save time and enhance taste. Variations offer fun twists, and I gave you best practices for storage.

Now, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your delicious soup creation and make it your ow

$- 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 1 pound chicken breast, diced - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups fresh spinach - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese You can add some extra flavor with these optional ingredients: - 1 bay leaf for depth - A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness - Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish - Red pepper flakes for a little heat If you lack some ingredients, try these swaps: - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter taste. - Swap chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for faster prep. - You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup. - If you don't have gnocchi, small pasta like ditalini works well too. Finding the right ingredients makes your creamy chicken gnocchi soup just right. Enjoy the cozy comfort it brings! {{ingredient_image_1}} To make this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, you will need to gather your ingredients. First, chop your onions, carrots, and celery. Dice the chicken breast into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Prepare everything before cooking. This will help your cooking go smoothly. 1. Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This oil adds flavor and helps cook the vegetables. 2. Sauté the Onion: Add your diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes. When the onion turns translucent, it's ready for the next step. 3. Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: Now, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. 4. Cook the Chicken: Next, add the diced chicken breast. Cook it until there is no pink left, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for depth of flavor. 5. Pour in Chicken Broth: Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend. 6. Add Gnocchi: Now, add one package of potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. You know it’s done when the gnocchi floats to the top. 7. Stir in Cream and Spinach: Add one cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well. 8. Mix in Parmesan Cheese: Finally, remove the pot from heat. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and blends into the soup. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed. Once your soup is ready, serve it hot in large bowls. For a beautiful touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This makes the soup look inviting and adds a burst of flavor. To make your creamy chicken gnocchi soup just right, focus on fresh ingredients. Fresh vegetables add nice flavors. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery well. This step builds a good base for your soup. Cook them until they are soft, but don’t let them brown. When you add the chicken, cook it until it’s no longer pink. This ensures safety and taste. Season your soup with dried thyme and oregano. These herbs add depth to your dish. Adjust salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor. To save time, prep your ingredients first. Dice your onion, carrots, and celery in advance. This way, you can cook them quickly. Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry. This cuts down cooking time. You can also use frozen gnocchi. It cooks fast and tastes great. Keep an eye on the soup while it simmers. You want to get the flavors right without overcooking the gnocchi. You need some basic tools to make this soup. A large pot or Dutch oven is best for cooking. It holds all your ingredients and distributes heat evenly. A sharp knife helps with chopping vegetables. A wooden spoon works well for stirring. If you have one, a ladle makes serving easier. A measuring cup is great for the chicken broth and cream. Finally, a grater is handy for the Parmesan cheese. These tools will help you create a tasty soup quickly and easily. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Chicken Cooking: Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Gnocchi Cooking: Gnocchi is done cooking when it floats to the top of the soup; avoid overcooking to keep them light and fluffy. Adjusting Creaminess: For a lighter soup, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream alternative. {{image_2}} You can change the chicken to fit your tastes. Try diced turkey for a leaner choice. Shrimp also works well if you like seafood. For a rich flavor, use sausage. Cook it first, then add it to the soup. Each protein adds a new taste and texture to the dish. You can make this soup meat-free easily. Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils. These give it protein and fiber. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For creaminess, try coconut milk or cashew cream. Fresh veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers add depth. This way, you keep all the flavor without meat. Want to jazz up your soup? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for a bright taste. You could also toss in some diced tomatoes for a splash of color. If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For extra greens, throw in kale or zucchini. Each twist makes the soup more exciting and unique. To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, let it cool first. Store it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about three days. Make sure to label your container with the date. This way, you won't forget when you made it. When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, use a pot over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps it warm evenly. If the soup seems too thick after storage, add a splash of broth or cream. If you want to save the soup for later, freezing is a great option. Use a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for a warm, comforting meal. What is creamy chicken gnocchi soup? Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a rich dish. It has tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies. The broth is creamy and full of flavor. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the soup a day before. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. What pairs well with creamy chicken gnocchi soup? This soup goes well with crusty bread, salad, or garlic bread. A light green salad adds freshness to the meal. Are there any good sides to avoid? Avoid heavy sides like fried foods. They can make the meal too filling and rich. What are the main nutrients in this soup? Creamy chicken gnocchi soup has protein from chicken and cheese. It also offers fiber from veggies like carrots and spinach. Is it healthy? This soup can be part of a balanced diet. Use low-fat cream and add more veggies for a healthier version. Are there any dietary concerns? This soup contains dairy and gluten. If you're lactose intolerant or gluten-free, use suitable substitutes. This blog post covered all key points for making creamy chicken gnocchi soup. We explored the best ingredients and how to swap them for unique flavors. The step-by-step guide ensures you’ll cook it perfectly every time. Plus, I shared tips to save time and enhance taste. Variations offer fun twists, and I gave you best practices for storage. Now, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your delicious soup creation and make it your own.$