Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
If you have ever craved a bowl of cozy, heartwarming comfort in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Velvety and rich, yet packed with tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, this soup blends flavors and textures that make every spoonful a little celebration. Whether you’re fighting off a chill or simply in the mood for something deliciously satisfying, this recipe will wrap you up in delicious warmth, and trust me, the results are as delightful as they sound.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple, essential ingredients. Each one brings its own magic—like the blend of butter and olive oil that starts the base, the fresh vegetables that add crunch and color, and the dairy components that create that irresistible creamy texture. These ingredients come together in perfect harmony to give you a soul-soothing soup.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a golden base to sauté your veggies.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps balance the butter and add subtle fruity notes.
- Small onion, diced (1): Provides a sweet and savory foundation.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the soup with aromatic depth.
- Celery, sliced (1/2 cup): Brings a refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness.
- Carrots, sliced (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- Dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle herbal lift.
- Dried parsley (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances freshness and color.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the soup to that luscious creamy consistency.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups): Builds the flavorful liquid base.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess without being overpowering.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to that luxuriously rich mouthfeel.
- Cooked shredded chicken (1 cup): Brings hearty protein and tender bites.
- Potato gnocchi (16 oz package): Pillowy dumplings that soak up all the flavorful broth.
- Fresh spinach, roughly chopped (2 cups): Adds a burst of vibrant green and subtle earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.
- Grated Parmesan (optional): A savory finishing touch with tangy umami richness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, sliced celery, and carrots. This combination creates a fragrant and colorful flavor base. Cook for about four to five minutes, stirring now and then, until the vegetables soften. Then, sprinkle in thyme and parsley to layer in those gentle herb notes that prepare your taste buds for what’s coming next.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
Next comes the magic that thickens and enriches your soup. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened vegetables, stirring constantly for about a minute so it cooks off its raw taste but doesn’t clump. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then the whole milk and heavy cream, folding everything together until it’s silky smooth. Allow the soup to gently simmer, letting it thicken and develop its signature creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
Now it’s time for the hearty elements. Stir in your cooked, shredded chicken first, then pour in the potato gnocchi. They’ll cook right in the simmering soup, usually taking five to six minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface and achieve a tender bite. This step infuses the soup with extra comfort and substance, making it a full, satisfying meal.
Step 4: Finish with Spinach and Season
The finishing touch is fresh spinach, stirred in to wilt just slightly, adding a pop of color and a subtle fresh bite. Season the entire pot generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to elevate those layers of flavor. Once combined, your soup is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top right before serving to add a savory and slightly nutty touch. For a little extra flair, a few fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can brighten the flavors and make your presentation shine.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or garlic knots to soak up every last creamy drop. A simple mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast that balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming, edible container that adds texture and appeal. Alternatively, layering the soup and garnishes in clear glass mugs can create a visually stunning effect that’s perfect for sharing with guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover soup to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually tend to deepen overnight, making the next-day spoonful even more indulgent.
Freezing
While this soup freezes well, it’s best to remove the spinach before freezing as it can lose its texture. Freeze in portions so you can thaw just what you need. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for optimal texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain that creamy consistency and to avoid curdling the dairy. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken both work perfectly in this recipe and save time without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy with coconut milk or almond milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative, but keep in mind it will alter the creamy richness and flavor slightly.
What type of gnocchi should I use?
Traditional potato gnocchi found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores work best. Avoid pre-cooked or frozen gnocchi as they might overcook during soup preparation.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Mushrooms, peas, or even corn can be great additions. Just add them during the sautéing stage or simmering phase depending on their cooking time.
How thick should the soup be?
It should be creamy and slightly thickened but still spoonable and comforting, not like a stew. Adjust by adding more broth or cream as needed during cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is truly a number-one comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I encourage you to give it a try—it’s straightforward enough for any weeknight but elegant enough to share with friends and family. Once you taste that creamy broth with tender chicken and perfectly cooked gnocchi, you’ll understand why it becomes a go-to favorite. Happy cooking and even happier spooning!
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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, hearty dish made with tender shredded chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy broth flavored with herbs and sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines classic flavors in an easy stovetop soup that can be ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup celery, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced celery, and sliced carrots. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the dried thyme and parsley, stirring to combine.
- Make Roux and Add Liquids: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth, followed by the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Add Chicken and Gnocchi: Stir the shredded cooked chicken and potato gnocchi into the pot. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.
- Wilt Spinach and Season: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until wilted. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute all the milk with heavy cream.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for this recipe.
- The soup can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated on the stovetop before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
