Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a bowl of pure comfort, Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is your answer. This luscious, cozy soup combines pillowy gnocchi, juicy chicken, fresh baby spinach, and plenty of garlic in an irresistibly creamy broth. The mixture of velvety sauce, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs makes every spoonful feel like a hug from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a special cold-weather treat, this soup is both quick to make and deeply satisfying. Trust me, Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a recipe you’ll come back to all winter long.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together here, but each one is essential for hitting all the right notes of flavor, texture, and color. Think of it as building a symphony of comfort—the gnocchi add body, the garlic and herbs infuse aroma, and creamy broth ties it all together.

• Chicken breasts: Tender, lean, and soak up all the wonderful flavors of the broth.
• Olive oil: A splash for sautéing adds depth and helps the aromatics sing.
• Onion: Brings a slight sweetness and savory backbone to the soup.
• Carrots: Classic for color and a subtle earthy sweetness.
• Celery: Adds fragrance and the classic “soup base” flavor.
• Fresh garlic: The star of the show—aromatic, comforting, and truly warming.
• Chicken broth: Sets the savory foundation for every delicious bite.
• Heavy cream: Makes the soup ultra-velvety without being too rich.
• Potato gnocchi: Those soft, pillowy dumplings that turn every bowl into a meal.
• Baby spinach: Wilts beautifully and adds a pop of green freshness at the end.
• Dried thyme and Italian seasoning: For the perfect herbal backdrop.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Shredded parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory finishing touch.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, then sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions turn translucent. Next, add your minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute until fragrant—this is where the foundation of that classic Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup flavor is built. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as you want it mellow and sweet, not bitter!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add diced chicken breasts directly to the pot with the vegetables. Season well with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is just cooked through and the edges pick up a bit of gold. Don’t worry about getting everything super browned—the flavors meld beautifully as the soup simmers.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. As soon as you see bubbles, reduce the heat to a simmer. Scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds a ton of deep flavor and is essential for an authentic Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup experience.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi

Carefully add the potato gnocchi to the simmering broth. The gnocchi cook quickly—typically in just 2 to 3 minutes, you’ll see them start to float. At this stage, they’re perfectly pillowy and ready to soak up all that amazing flavor.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Simmer gently until everything is warmed through and the soup thickens slightly. The heavy cream brings everything together, giving that signature silky texture that makes Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup so unforgettable.

Step 6: Add Greens and Finish

Stir in the fresh baby spinach and let it wilt gently in the hot soup. Give the pot a taste—add more salt or pepper as needed. If you like, finish with a handful of shredded parmesan right before serving for an extra layer of savory flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Give your bowl the finishing touch with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese, a handful of chopped fresh parsley, and a crack of black pepper. These little flourishes bring bursts of flavor and color that make each serving of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough on its own, but you can turn it into a feast with some crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables on the side. Planning a cozy dinner? Pair with garlic knots or even homemade focaccia for serious wow-factor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup in warm bread bowls, or ladle it into individual ramekins with a parmesan crisp perched on top. Hosting friends? Set up a soup bar with toppings—more cheese, crispy bacon bits, or chili flakes—so everyone can customize their own bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors develop even more after a night in the fridge, making tomorrow’s bowl even more delicious!

Freezing

You can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup, but keep in mind the texture of the gnocchi and cream may change slightly after thawing. For the best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and spinach, then add them fresh when reheating. Use freezer-safe containers and enjoy within two months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of extra broth or cream if the soup has thickened. If microwaving, heat in short bursts and stir between to avoid overcooking the chicken and gnocchi. Top with a bit more fresh parmesan and you’re good to go!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a wonderful time-saver and brings extra flavor. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it in Step 4 when you add the gnocchi—no need to cook it again.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’d like a lighter version, try half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream give a creamy texture and mellow flavor.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra veggies or plant-based protein such as cannellini beans or mushrooms in place of the chicken. The soup remains cozy and delicious.

What type of gnocchi should I use: shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade?

All three types work! Shelf-stable gnocchi are easy to keep on hand, while refrigerated and homemade versions tend to be a little softer and cook faster. Whichever you use, just add them in Step 4 and cook until they float.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, though you’ll want to skip sautéing the vegetables and chicken in the pot. Add everything except the cream, spinach, and gnocchi to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Stir in gnocchi, cream, and spinach during the last 30 minutes for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is pure cold-weather comfort that’s easy to make and sure to please. If you’re looking for a dish guaranteed to earn rave reviews, make a big pot, grab a spoon, and get cozy—you’ll be dreaming about this soup long after the last bowl is gone!

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