There’s really nothing that says “comfort” quite like a bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Imagine tender bites of potato gnocchi, shreds of juicy chicken, and a glorious mix of carrots, celery, and spinach all tucked into a rich, velvety broth. This cozy soup is savory, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to brighten even the coldest day. Whether you’re planning an easy weeknight dinner or looking for a dish that soothes and delights with every bite, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and pure homemade goodness.

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this soup is how each ingredient brings its own magic—nothing fancy, just simple ingredients that work together beautifully. Every component adds depth, heartiness, or a splash of color, making this bowlful irresistibly appealing.

Olive oil: Use a mild extra-virgin olive oil for best flavor, as it starts the soup with a luscious base and helps soften the veggies.
Butter: Adds a lovely richness and rounds out the soup’s creamy texture.
Yellow onion: Diced small, this gives the broth a sweet, aromatic foundation.
Carrots: Their subtle sweetness and bright color make every spoonful pretty and flavorful.
Celery: Classic for any comforting soup, celery brings a crisp, slightly peppery punch and balance.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh, garlic layers in warmth and irresistible aromatics.
Dried thyme: Earthy and woodsy, thyme gives the soup depth.
Dried basil: Offers a gentle sweetness and herbal lift to each bite.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Kick up the flavor with a pinch for extra warmth, or leave them out for a milder taste.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup into that perfect creamy consistency.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the soulful base and lets you control the saltiness.
Half-and-half: This is what gives Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup its silky, luxurious body.
Whole milk: Adds more creaminess without making it too heavy—feel free to substitute for even richer results.
Cooked chicken breast: Shredded rotisserie or homemade chicken makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
Potato gnocchi: Tender, pillowy gnocchi turns this soup into a true meal—store-bought or homemade both work!
Fresh spinach: A last-minute addition for freshness, bright color, and a boost of greens.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste right at the end, letting all the flavors shine through.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a roomy soup pot, heat up your olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and let them cook together for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir and breathe in the aroma as the veggies gently soften, releasing their flavors into the pot—this is where the lovely base for your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup truly begins.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Seasonings

Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried basil, and those optional red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Sauté everything for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until the garlic smells fragrant. This is a small step that makes a world of difference—layering flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Now, scatter the flour into the pot and stir continually for about 1 to 2 minutes. This forms a thin roux that will help your soup thicken up to that dreamy, creamy texture you crave. Take care not to rush this step, as you want the flour to gently cook—no raw taste allowed!

Step 4: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth slowly, whisking as you go so there are no flour lumps left behind. Next up, stir in the half-and-half and whole milk. Give everything a good stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the pot bubble gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, while the base comes together into a silken sauce.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

Gently toss in the shredded chicken breast and your pound of potato gnocchi. Keep the soup at a gentle simmer for another 7 to 10 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top looking pillowy and tender. The chicken will soak up all those flavors, and the gnocchi turns every bowl into a hearty, satisfying meal.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Season

Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it wilt for just 1 to 2 minutes. This quick finish brings a dash of color and nutrition. Season your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with salt and black pepper to taste, and taste again until you get it just right. Serve piping hot!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, a handful of grated Parmesan cheese, or a few torn basil leaves make beautiful and delicious toppers. For a pop of color and a little zip, some red pepper flakes finish the bowl nicely—just tailor toppings to your crowd and occasion.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better than a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery roll—perfect for swooping through the creamy broth. You can also serve a simple green salad on the side to round out the meal and keep things feeling fresh, or try a plate of roasted broccoli for more veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup into rustic mugs for a cozy lunch, or serve it in wide, shallow bowls to show off those tender gnocchi and vibrant spinach. For dinner parties, top each bowl with a swirl of cream or a sprig of herbs for extra elegance. You can even set up a mini “soup bar” with assorted toppings so everyone can customize their own bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge. As it sits, the flavors meld and become even more delicious.

Freezing

While this soup is at its very best fresh, you can freeze it if you need to. Keep in mind that dairy-based soups and gnocchi can change texture when frozen: the soup may separate slightly and the gnocchi can get a bit soft. To freeze, store in airtight containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems extra thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up to your preferred consistency. Take care not to boil vigorously—just warm until hot, and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fabulous time-saver and adds even more flavor to Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just shred it and stir it in as directed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Simply substitute gluten-free flour and gluten-free gnocchi. Always double-check the labels on your broth and seasonings, but this easy swap makes the whole soup accessible for gluten-free diets.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Definitely. Kale or Swiss chard would be delicious substitutes—just chop them small, and remember that heartier greens may need a minute or two longer to soften in the soup.

What if I don’t have half-and-half?

No worries! You can use all milk for a lighter version, or swap in a bit of heavy cream for extra richness. Adjust based on your taste and what you have on hand—Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is very forgiving.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, with a few swaps! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute the chicken for extra gnocchi, sautéed mushrooms, or even canned white beans. You’ll still get all that luscious, creamy texture and hearty goodness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that warms you to your toes and feels like a big, cozy hug, you just can’t beat Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite comfort food—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your table will be filled with smiles.

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 15 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this hearty Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and nutritious veggies, this soup is a comforting delight for your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup half-and-half
1 cup whole milk
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 pound potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook briefly.
Create Roux: Sprinkle in flour and stir to form a roux.
Thicken Soup: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add half-and-half and milk. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Finish Soup: Add chicken and gnocchi, simmer until gnocchi is tender. Stir in spinach and season before serving.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
For a richer soup, substitute milk with additional half-and-half or heavy cream.
Add more broth for a thinner consistency if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American