There is something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken dancing in a luscious creamy broth, enriched with garlic’s rich aroma and the pillowy softness of gnocchi. It is the perfect marriage of hearty ingredients and delicate flavors that create a soul-warming meal, ideal for chilly evenings or any time you crave that cozy, homemade goodness. Every spoonful brings warmth, zest, and a delicate creaminess that makes this soup an instant favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients sets the stage for this soup’s incredible flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a vital role — from building the base to adding freshness, texture, and those unforgettable creamy notes.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a fragrant and smooth cooking medium for sautéing vegetables.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and depth to the flavor of the soup.
- Small onion, diced (1): A foundational aromatic that builds savory depth.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Brings vibrant, warm garlic flavor that defines this soup.
- Carrots, sliced (2 medium): Offers a hint of natural sweetness and pleasant texture.
- Celery stalks, sliced (2): Adds a mild earthy crunch to balance the soup.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Brings subtle herbal notes enhancing overall aroma.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a fresh, peppery undertone to brighten the broth.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gently spices the soup without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to balance and elevate all flavors.
- All-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend (1/4 cup): Thickens the soup to that signature creamy, velvety texture.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The heart of the soup’s savory and comforting base.
- Cooked and shredded chicken (1 cup): The protein star that makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
- Half-and-half or whole milk (1 cup): Creates the signature creamy body of the soup.
- Potato gnocchi (16 oz package): Soft, tender dumplings that add a unique, pillowy bite.
- Fresh spinach, roughly chopped (2 cups): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, leafy texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Infuses rich, umami flavor with a slightly nutty finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating your olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat—the combination perfectly softens the vegetables and infuses the soup with a rich base. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery, and cook them gently until they reach that wonderful tender stage, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step builds the soul of the soup with layers of sweet and savory aromas.
Step 2: Add the Herbs and Create the Roux
Once your veggies are softened, sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper—these herbs lend subtle complexity to the flavor. Then shower the mixture with the flour, stirring nonstop for a minute or two. This careful stirring is crucial; it creates a roux, which will thicken the soup beautifully and give it that luxurious creamy texture without lumps. Take your time here to ensure the flour is well incorporated and its raw taste cooks off.
Step 3: Slowly Add Chicken Broth and Simmer
Now for the magic: gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly. This continuous whisking helps prevent pesky lumps and keeps your soup smooth. Once incorporated, bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld and the broth to start thickening into that perfect consistency.
Step 4: Add Chicken, Dairy, and Gnocchi
Stir in the cooked shredded chicken along with the half-and-half or whole milk, giving the soup its silky richness. Toss in the potato gnocchi next and let everything simmer together for 5 to 6 minutes more until those little pillows rise to the surface and become tender. This is one of the most satisfying moments—the gnocchi’s soft texture and the creamy base create a perfect harmony.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan
To brighten and add freshness, fold in the roughly chopped spinach and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the hot soup. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the broth, perfectly enriching it with umami notes. Before serving, taste your soup and adjust seasonings if needed—salt and pepper can be your best friends here. Now, your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley can elevate your bowl beautifully. These final touches add a burst of color and an extra layer of cheesy goodness that perfectly complement the soup’s creamy texture.
Side Dishes
When serving this soup, consider pairing it with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping—you’ll love soaking up every drop of that delicious cream sauce. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also offers a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s rich, hearty nature.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic mugs or small skillets for a homestyle, inviting presentation. You can even garnish with crispy pancetta or toasted pine nuts for added texture and sophistication. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is wonderfully versatile, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing and refrigerating to maintain freshness and quality.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’s best to freeze before adding the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese; add those fresh when reheating for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add fresh spinach and Parmesan as the soup reaches serving temperature. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, simply whisk in a splash of broth or milk to restore that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred the meat and toss it in as directed for a quick and easy version of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes, you can easily make a dairy-free variation by swapping the half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk and omitting the Parmesan cheese. The soup will still be creamy and delicious with a slightly different but lovely flavor profile.
Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?
Definitely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly here. Just add them directly to the simmering soup and cook until they float and are tender. There’s no need to thaw first.
How thick should the soup be?
This soup should be rich and creamy but not overly thick. The flour roux gives it a velvety texture that coats your spoon. If it feels too thick, adding a bit more broth or milk helps adjust the consistency to your preference.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Of course! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, or even corn for extra color and flavor. Just add them during the sauté step or with the broth, depending on how long they need to cook. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is very adaptable!
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about making and enjoying this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite, perfect for bringing friends and family together around the table. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find a new weeknight favorite that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a flavorful, creamy garlic broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s easy to make on the stovetop and combines classic herbs with Parmesan cheese for a rich taste.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Thickener
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
Liquid & Protein
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
Main Ingredient
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
Vegetables & Cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Add Herbs and Flour: Stir in the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the soup.
- Incorporate Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
- Add Chicken and Dairy: Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken along with the half-and-half or whole milk, blending everything to combine well and enrich the soup.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender, indicating they are cooked through.
- Add Spinach and Cheese: Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, making the soup creamy and flavorful.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut for shredded chicken.
- Frozen gnocchi can be used if fresh is unavailable; cooking time may vary slightly.
