There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth, tender bites of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fragrant herbs create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

I first fell in love with this soup after trying it at a cozy little Italian restaurant. Determined to recreate it at home, I experimented until I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The best part? This version is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal prep, and comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to add this recipe to your regular rotation. It’s not just delicious—it’s a total lifesaver on busy nights.

First off, it’s quick and easy. While it tastes like something that’s been simmering for hours, you can have this soup on the table in just half an hour.

It’s also budget-friendly. Made with simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this soup delivers restaurant-quality flavor without breaking the bank.

One of the best things about this dish is its comfort factor. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi make for an ultra-cozy meal that’s satisfying without being too heavy.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand, whether it’s swapping the protein, adjusting the veggies, or even making it dairy-free.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating that rich, comforting flavor.

Chicken is the heart of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and shred easily. However, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for an even faster prep.

Gnocchi gives the soup its signature texture. These little potato dumplings cook right in the broth, absorbing all those delicious flavors. You can use store-bought gnocchi, but if you have homemade on hand, even better!

Heavy cream adds the luscious creaminess that makes this soup so comforting. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or even whole milk can work, though the texture will be less rich.

Chicken broth forms the flavorful base of the soup. I recommend using low-sodium broth so you can better control the salt level. If you have homemade broth, that’s even better for an extra depth of flavor.

Vegetables and seasonings bring everything together. A mix of onions, carrots, and celery creates a classic aromatic base, while garlic, thyme, and Italian seasoning add warmth and depth. A handful of fresh spinach at the end provides a pop of color and extra nutrition.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is surprisingly simple, yet it delivers so much flavor in every spoonful.

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, followed by diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about five minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s nice and aromatic.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and add your chicken breasts. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.

While the broth is still simmering, stir in the gnocchi and let them cook for about five minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface—this means they’re light, fluffy, and perfectly tender.

Now, it’s time to add the creamy element. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded chicken. Let everything warm through for a couple of minutes, then add in the fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt the spinach beautifully without overcooking it.

Before serving, give the soup a final taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If you like a slightly thicker consistency, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (one tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of water). Serve hot, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top.

Storage Options

This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

If you plan to store it in the refrigerator, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Keep in mind that the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid over time, so you might need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. However, because of the dairy content, it’s best to freeze it before adding the heavy cream. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove and stir in the cream at the end.

To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a little broth or milk to bring it back to the right consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how easily it can be customized to fit different tastes and dietary needs.

For a low-carb version, swap the gnocchi for cauliflower florets or diced zucchini. They’ll still provide a nice bite without the extra carbs.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk. It gives the soup a slight sweetness but keeps it creamy and satisfying.

Want to boost the protein? Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor, or add a can of white beans for extra heartiness.

Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add mushrooms or chickpeas to replace the protein.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.

However you choose to make it, this creamy chicken gnocchi soup is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!