If you have been on the hunt for a soul-satisfying, warm bowl of comfort, then you are in for a real treat with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Combining tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious garlic-infused creamy broth, this soup manages to be both indulgent and cozy all at once. Every spoonful offers a perfect balance of fresh herbs, savory Parmesan, and hearty greens, making it the ultimate all-in-one meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you make this, it will become your go-to dish on chilly evenings or whenever you need a little delicious pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role—from the golden-browned chicken that adds protein and texture, to the fragrant garlic and herbs that build the irresistible aroma, all the way to the soft gnocchi and creamy broth that tie everything together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken to caramelized perfection.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced: Tender and juicy chunks of chicken provide hearty flavor and protein.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Offers a slight sweetness and a savory base for the broth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of bold, aromatic flavor that infuses the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme): Adds subtle earthy notes that elevate the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary): Brings herbaceous warmth that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that gives the soup depth.
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version): Creates the silky, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the luscious broth.
- 2 cups baby spinach (or kale, if preferred): Adds freshness, color, and a touch of bright green goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that finishes the soup beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): A splash of brightness that cuts through the creaminess perfectly.
- Extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, chopped: Great for garnishing to add color and extra flavor.
- Crusty bread (for serving): Ideal for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the creamy soup.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until nicely browned and cooked through. Browning the chicken is key here because it creates a rich flavor base that will make your soup extra savory. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, pour the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its sweetness. Next, add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook for another couple of minutes to wake up those beautiful herbal flavors that make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe so memorable.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to deepen the flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial — it gives the broth time to marry with the herbs and aromatics, resulting in a rich, satisfying base.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly to the simmering soup, gently stirring to ensure they don’t stick to each other or the pot. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface, signaling they are perfectly tender. The warm, soft gnocchi adds such a delightful texture contrast to the creamy broth.
Step 5: Add Cream, Spinach, and Chicken
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, letting the soup simmer for 5 to 7 minutes as it thickens and the flavors meld. Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the baby spinach, stirring until the greens wilt gently and everything is heated through. This stage really brings the soup to life with its vibrant color and mouthwatering creaminess.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, a tablespoon of lemon juice for a subtle bright touch that balances the creamy richness. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the salty, nutty profile and gives a lovely melt-in-your-mouth finish. A scatter of vibrant chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy garlic goodness. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the richness, or simple roasted vegetables for a wholesome accompaniment that won’t overwhelm the soup’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that doubles as edible dishware. You can also drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or truffle oil on top for an extra layer of indulgence. Garnishing with microgreens or thinly sliced chili adds a gourmet touch that impresses without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe left over, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because gnocchi can become softer over time, it’s best enjoyed fresh but will still taste flavorful when reheated gently.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is possible, but because of the cream and gnocchi, texture changes can occur. To freeze, cool the soup completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to help maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help restore its creamy consistency if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the gnocchi tender and the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy during cooking, making them a delicious alternative in this soup.
Is there a lighter version of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter texture without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Can I make homemade gnocchi for this soup?
Definitely! Homemade gnocchi add a special touch, but store-bought gnocchi work just as well and save time.
What kind of cheese works best for this soup?
Parmesan is ideal for its salty, nutty flavor, but you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different twist.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base and cook the chicken ahead of time, then add gnocchi and spinach just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves cozy, flavorful meals that come together with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dish that comforts the soul, impresses guests, and feeds the whole family with its hearty goodness. I encourage you to try it out, savor every comforting spoonful, and make it a staple in your recipe rotation—you’re going to love how it fills your kitchen with warmth and wonderful aromas.
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Featuring tender diced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach simmered in a rich garlic-infused creamy broth, it’s an easy one-pot meal that brings together savory herbs and Parmesan for incredible depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced
Produce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach (or kale, if preferred)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dairy
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a bright finish)
Serving
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot, stirring gently. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi starts to float to the top.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Once the gnocchi is floating, add the heavy cream and stir well. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and the gnocchi to absorb some of the flavors.
- Add Spinach and Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the spinach (or kale) and stir until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
- Finish the Soup: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this garlic-infused chicken gnocchi soup!
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach as a leafy green alternative if desired.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors, but it’s optional based on taste preference.
- Make sure to cook the chicken fully before adding back to the soup to ensure tenderness and safety.
