A Rich and Satisfying Soup for Any Occasion
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together soft potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. This restaurant-quality soup is warm, filling, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for cozy nights at home or a delicious meal to impress family and friends. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this dish is both hearty and nourishing while being incredibly easy to make.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture – The combination of half-and-half and flour creates a velvety smooth broth.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables bring depth and warmth to every bite.
- Quick and Easy – Made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – Inspired by the famous Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the refrigerator or freezer for easy reheating.
The Best Pairings for This Soup
This soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread – Warm, crusty bread with a garlic butter spread is perfect for dipping.
- Side Salad – A simple green salad with balsamic dressing adds freshness to the meal.
- Parmesan Crusted Crackers – A crispy, cheesy accompaniment for extra crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables – A side of oven-roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts complements the creamy texture of the soup.
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- 2 ½ cups diced cooked chicken (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach (long stems trimmed)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté for 7-8 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables are softened. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute to release its aroma.
Step 2: Thicken the Soup Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps create a thicker, creamier broth.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Slowly pour in the half-and-half and chicken broth, alternating between the two while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the soup slightly thickens.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Gnocchi
Stir in the chopped fresh thyme, cooked diced chicken, and potato gnocchi. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook and absorb the flavors of the broth.
Step 5: Add the Spinach and Seasonings
Gently fold in the baby spinach and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra fresh thyme or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – A pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop Vegetables Small – Smaller pieces cook faster and blend seamlessly into the soup.
- Choose the Best Gnocchi – Fresh or frozen gnocchi has a better texture than dried shelf-stable gnocchi.
- Adjust the Thickness – If you prefer a thinner soup, add more chicken broth. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer.
- Make it Dairy-Free – Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Delicious Variations
- Mushroom Gnocchi Soup – Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the vegetables for extra umami.
- Spicy Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Increase the red pepper flakes and add a dash of cayenne pepper for a bold kick.
- Cheesy Gnocchi Soup – Stir in ½ cup shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese before serving.
- Herb-Infused Gnocchi Soup – Swap fresh thyme for a mix of chopped rosemary, basil, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Storage and Freezing Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power.
- Freezer – Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Frozen Soup
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of half-and-half or broth to restore the creamy texture, as dairy-based soups can slightly separate when frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works well, but fresh or frozen gnocchi often has a better texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the soup up to 2 days in advance, but add the gnocchi and spinach when reheating to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a pan first, then transfer everything except the spinach to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, then stir in the spinach before serving.
What can I use instead of half-and-half?
For a lighter version, use whole milk. For a richer texture, use heavy cream.
More Comforting Soups to Try
- Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup – A cheesy, creamy classic.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup – Packed with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup – A hearty, cheesy potato soup.
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect balance of comforting flavors, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients. Make a batch today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.