Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of chicken gnocchi soup. This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that hugs the soul with every spoonful. Originally popularized by Italian-inspired kitchens and American restaurants like Olive Garden, this recipe has become a household favorite for families who crave both flavor and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best chicken gnocchi soup at home, using simple ingredients and easy steps. We’ll also share tips, variations, and answers to common questions so you can perfect this dish in your own kitchen.

🥘 Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Rich and Creamy – A luscious broth made with cream and seasonings.

One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup and hassle-free cooking.

Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.

Restaurant Quality at Home – Tastes even better than takeout.

🥗 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this chicken gnocchi soup recipe:

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded.

Gnocchi – Soft potato dumplings, store-bought or homemade.

Butter & Olive Oil – For sautéing and adding richness.

Vegetables – Onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and fresh spinach.

Chicken Broth – The savory base for the soup.

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – For creaminess.

Seasonings – Thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty depth.

Fresh Parsley – For garnish and freshness.

🍲 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook chicken breasts in salted water or broth until tender.

Shred or dice the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil.

Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots.

Sauté until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Stir in the seasonings and cook for another minute.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Chicken & Gnocchi

Add shredded chicken and gnocchi to the pot.

Let it cook until the gnocchi floats to the surface (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.

Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.

Serve hot with breadsticks or garlic bread.

👩‍🍳 Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Homemade Gnocchi – If you have time, make gnocchi from scratch for unbeatable freshness.

Don’t Overcook – Gnocchi cooks quickly; overcooking makes it mushy.

Thicker Soup – Add a cornstarch slurry if you like a richer texture.

Lighter Version – Use milk instead of cream and skip the butter.

Meal Prep Friendly – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

🌿 Variations You Can Try

Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free gnocchi and cornstarch as a thickener.

Vegetarian – Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas.

Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Herb Lovers – Mix in fresh rosemary and basil for an aromatic punch.

Instant Pot Version – Cook chicken, broth, and veggies on high pressure for 8 minutes, then add cream, spinach, and gnocchi at the end.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze chicken gnocchi soup?
Yes, but since cream-based soups sometimes separate, it’s best to freeze without the cream and add it fresh when reheating.

2. What can I serve with chicken gnocchi soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with garlic bread, breadsticks, salad, or grilled sandwiches.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It saves time and adds extra flavor.

4. How do I make it healthier?
Use coconut milk instead of cream and add more vegetables like zucchini or peas.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, swap cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free parmesan alternatives.

📌 Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving)

Calories: 380

Protein: 24g

Carbs: 32g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 3g

🥄 Final Thoughts

This chicken gnocchi soup recipe is more than just a meal—it’s comfort, warmth, and love in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night, prepping for a family dinner, or simply craving something creamy and satisfying, this recipe is a keeper.

So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and create a restaurant-style experience right in your kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this soup has become a worldwide favorite.