When the temperatures dip and you find yourself reaching for something warm, hearty, and soul-soothing, few dishes hit the mark quite like a bowl of Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup. This isn’t just another winter soup—it’s the kind that wraps you in a blanket of comfort with every bite. Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant veggies all come together in a rich, creamy broth that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is designed to deliver big on flavor with minimal effort.
There’s something about the combination of soft gnocchi and savory chicken that just works. Add in fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a dash of Italian herbs, and you’ve got a recipe that feels restaurant-worthy but is made entirely at home. With a flexible ingredient list and simple stovetop method, this soup adapts easily to what you have in your kitchen. Let’s dig into what makes this bowl of goodness an instant classic.
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Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights In
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
A rich and hearty creamy gnocchi chicken soup made with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan in a velvety herb-seasoned broth. A cozy one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
6 carrots, chopped
4 celery stalks, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 to 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
4 to 6 cups baby spinach
1 1/2 cups whole milk, cream, or canned coconut milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 pound fresh potato gnocchi
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Stir in the carrots and celery and cook for another 3 minutes.
2. Add the butter and let it melt, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a light roux.
3. Add the chicken, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the chicken is coated with the seasonings. Pour in 4 cups of the broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
5. Stir in the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, milk or cream, Parmesan cheese, and gnocchi. Let the soup cook for about 5 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender and everything is heated through. Add more broth as needed to reach your preferred consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
You can use fresh, shelf-stable, or frozen gnocchi—adjust cook time accordingly. For a dairy-free version, substitute with canned coconut milk and olive oil instead of butter. Adjust broth quantity for thicker or thinner soup consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup
There’s a reason this creamy soup finds its way into so many cozy night menus. First, it’s a complete meal in one pot—no need for separate sides unless you want them. The hearty mix of protein, veggies, and starch keeps everyone satisfied. But what really sets it apart is the balance of textures: the gnocchi’s pillowy softness plays off the shredded chicken’s tenderness, all swimming in a velvety, herb-infused broth.
Unlike more traditional chicken noodle soups, this one brings an elevated richness without being heavy. Thanks to your choice of milk, cream, or even coconut milk, the soup can easily be made to suit your dietary preferences without losing its creamy essence. And because it’s made from scratch, you control the salt, the spices, and everything in between.
Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without any fuss. It’s comfort food that doesn’t compromise—and it’s likely to become one of those recipes you turn to again and again.
Ingredients That Make This Soup Irresistible
Every spoonful of this soup delivers layers of flavor, thanks to a thoughtfully chosen set of ingredients. It all starts with a classic aromatic trio—onions, carrots, and celery—which build the savory backbone of the dish. Add to that garlic, Italian seasoning, and thyme, and suddenly the kitchen smells like an Italian countryside kitchen.
But the real stars? The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. Sun-dried tomatoes lend a deep, tangy-sweet richness that balances out the creamy broth, while grated Parmesan adds that final umami touch that keeps your spoon going back for more.
Of course, you can’t have a Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup without the gnocchi. Opt for fresh potato gnocchi if possible—they cook quickly and soak up flavor beautifully. If using shelf-stable or frozen versions, just give them a little extra simmer time.
As for the creamy base, you have options. Whole milk brings a classic richness, heavy cream takes it over the top, and canned coconut milk offers a dairy-free alternative with a subtle sweetness that works surprisingly well.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup
Making this soup is far easier than its luxurious flavor suggests. It starts with heating up olive oil in a large soup pot and softening the onions until they’re fragrant and golden. In go the carrots and celery, sautéed just long enough to release their natural sweetness. Then comes the butter and flour—this step is crucial for building the roux, which thickens the broth to that perfect creamy consistency.
Next, the seasoned chicken is added along with garlic and a medley of dried herbs. Smoked paprika and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offer just the right amount of depth and gentle heat. Once the broth goes in, it’s all about letting the flavors meld while the chicken cooks through.
After about 20 minutes, the chicken gets shredded and returned to the pot, where it reunites with sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and your milk or cream of choice. The final flourish is stirring in the gnocchi and Parmesan cheese, simmering until the gnocchi are tender and the soup is dreamy and thick.
You can always adjust the consistency by adding a little more broth, depending on your preference. And don’t forget that final taste test—this is your moment to tweak the seasoning and make it your own.
Tips, Swaps & Customizations
This recipe is beautifully adaptable, whether you need it dairy-free, gluten-free, or just want to switch things up. For a dairy-free version, swap the butter for olive oil and use canned coconut milk instead of cream. The result is still rich and comforting, with a slightly tropical note that complements the herbs.
Need it gluten-free? Choose gluten-free gnocchi and double-check that your flour and broth are certified gluten-free. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using chickpeas or white beans for added protein.
Not a fan of spinach? Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can step in easily. No sun-dried tomatoes on hand? Try roasted red peppers or a splash of tomato paste to maintain that depth of flavor.
If you’re planning ahead, this soup also stores beautifully. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, and while gnocchi can soften over time, a quick reheat brings everything back to life. For freezer storage, consider leaving the gnocchi out and adding it fresh when reheating.
Pairings & Serving Ideas for Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup
There’s no wrong way to enjoy a bowl of Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup, but pairing it with the right side makes the experience even better. Crusty sourdough, garlic knots, or even a slice of cheesy focaccia turn this into a true comfort meal. If you’re keeping things light, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
Looking to turn this into a dinner party-worthy meal? Add a glass of chilled white wine and a platter of roasted vegetables or antipasto on the side.
And don’t overlook leftovers—they’re even more flavorful the next day. You can also serve it over cooked rice or quinoa for a change in texture, or thin it out with broth to turn it into a lighter lunch. The possibilities are endless with a base this delicious.
More Cozy Soup Recipes to Try Next
If you loved this soup, you’ll definitely want to explore more comforting recipes that warm you from the inside out. For something bold and unexpected, try this Taco Tortellini Soup—it blends spicy, cheesy goodness with tender pasta in every bite.
Tomato fans will appreciate the layers of flavor in this Creamy Chicken Tomato Basil Soup, which offers a silky, herb-laced experience perfect for dipping bread.
These soups are proof that a well-made bowl can be just as satisfying as any full-course meal—and they’re all made with simple, accessible ingredients.
FAQs about Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup
Can I use Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup with gnocchi?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can absolutely use a can of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup as a base. However, for a more flavorful and fresh result, making the creamy base from scratch—as this recipe does—is well worth the effort. Using a pre-made soup can save time, but you’ll miss out on the complexity of flavor that comes from sautéing fresh vegetables and herbs.
How do I make chicken gnocchi soup with milk instead of cream?
To make a lighter version, simply swap out the heavy cream for whole milk. You’ll still get that smooth, comforting texture, especially if you use a roux to thicken the soup. If you want a bit more body, try adding a spoonful of cream cheese or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan along with the milk.
What vegetables go best in creamy gnocchi chicken soup?
In addition to spinach, carrots, and celery, this soup welcomes a wide variety of vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped kale can all be added depending on what you have on hand. The key is to balance heartier vegetables with those that wilt or soften quickly to maintain the soup’s texture.
Can I freeze leftover creamy chicken gnocchi soup?
Yes, with one small caveat: gnocchi can get a little mushy when frozen and thawed. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi, then cook and stir them in fresh when you reheat the soup. This keeps the texture of the dish just right.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It checks every box: rich but not heavy, easy yet impressive, cozy yet fresh. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s one of those dishes that makes everyone feel cared for.
With its blend of comforting textures and vibrant flavors, this soup deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. And because it’s so customizable, it easily adapts to whatever’s in your pantry or fridge. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to comfort food all season long.
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