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If you are craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Packed with tender, juicy chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious garlicky cream base, every spoonful bursts with savory flavors and a touch of fresh herbs. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying soup that perfectly combines hearty textures and comforting richness, ideal for cozy nights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color that make this soup unforgettable. From the fragrant herbs to the tender gnocchi, each item adds its own special something.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing the chicken and aromatics with a subtle fruitiness.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced: The protein star of the soup, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Medium onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with its signature warm, aromatic punch.
- Dried thyme and rosemary: These herbs bring that woodsy, fragrant note that complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that forms the body of the soup and enhances the savory profile.
- Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version): Creates the silky richness that makes this soup indulgent.
- Gnocchi (store-bought or homemade): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the glorious soup flavors.
- Baby spinach (or kale): Adds a pop of vibrant green and fresh vegetal balance to the creamy broth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing everything together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty sharpness that enhances the soup’s depth.
- Lemon juice (optional): A splash of brightness that lifts the flavors and adds freshness.
- Extra Parmesan cheese: Perfect for sprinkling on top before serving.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A lovely, fresh garnish that also adds color contrast.
- Crusty bread: Ideal for dipping and soaking up every last bit of soup.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about five to seven minutes. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and develops a wonderful golden crust. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside so it can rest while you prep the rest of the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the remaining olive oil to the same pot — this way, all those browned bits from the chicken infuse your next ingredients with flavor. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened, around three to four minutes. Next, add the minced garlic along with dried thyme and rosemary. Let the mix cook for another one to two minutes until your kitchen fills with that irresistible herb and garlic aroma.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to combine it with the fragrant herbs and onions. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering step lets the flavors meld and develop, giving your soup a rich, savory foundation that will carry through every bite.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Stir in the gnocchi gently into the simmering broth. They’ll begin cooking quickly and will float to the top within three to four minutes — a helpful sign they’re done. This step is where those tender dumplings absorb the surrounding flavors, adding a lavish, comforting texture to the soup.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Thicken
Once the gnocchi floats, pour in the heavy cream, stirring carefully to blend it into the soup base. Let everything simmer together for five to seven more minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly and the gnocchi to soak up the creamy goodness even more. This is when your soup becomes truly silky and indulgent.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Chicken
Add the cooked chicken back to the pot along with the baby spinach (or kale if you prefer). Stir gently until the greens wilt and the chicken is warmed through. To finish, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you fancy, a tablespoon of lemon juice for a delicate bright note. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley for the perfect final touch. Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up every last delicious drop. Now you’re ready to dive into the savory magic of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley. These simple garnishes add both bold savory flavor and a pop of color that visually transforms the dish into something restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Crusty bread is an absolute must for this soup — it’s perfect for dipping and catching every last creamy drop. You can also serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in individual bread bowls or rustic stoneware bowls that hold heat beautifully. Adding a drizzle of chili oil or a few red pepper flakes on top can introduce a gentle kick for those who love some heat. A small dish of freshly cracked black pepper on the side encourages everyone to customize to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day, but the gnocchi may absorb some liquid and soften further, which is perfectly fine.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is possible, but keep in mind the gnocchi’s texture may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without the cream and add it fresh when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling of the cream. Add additional chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much. Stir frequently until warmed through and serve immediately with fresh garnishes.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this soup?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully in this recipe and saves time. Just cook it directly in the soup until it floats, as described, for perfect tenderness.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken, or substitute it with hearty mushrooms or tofu for protein. The flavorful herbs and creamy base still shine beautifully.
How can I lighten this soup?
Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Keep in mind the soup will be less rich but still creamy and delicious.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with broth and herbs. Add cream and gnocchi near the end of the cooking time so the gnocchi stays tender and the cream doesn’t curdle.
What’s the best way to prevent the cream from curdling?
Always add cream towards the end of cooking and reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling once the cream is added to maintain a silky texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe truly is a heartwarming meal that feels like a special treat, yet is surprisingly simple to make. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a casual family dinner, or a way to impress friends, this soup has all the rich, comforting flavors you want in a bowl. Give it a try and enjoy the magical combination of creamy broth, savory chicken, and tender gnocchi — you’ll be coming back for seconds every time!
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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
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender diced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich, garlicky broth made with chicken broth and heavy cream. Infused with herbs like thyme and rosemary, and finished with Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon juice, this hearty soup is perfect for a cozy meal served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), diced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- 2 cups baby spinach (or kale, if preferred)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Pantry and Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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)
Accompaniments
- 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, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set 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. Then add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking 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 cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface indicating it is cooked.
- Add Cream and Thicken Soup: Once the gnocchi is floating, stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes to thicken and allow flavors to blend.
- Add Spinach and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the baby spinach (or kale). 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. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and savor the creamy, garlicky comfort of this delicious chicken gnocchi soup.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- Gnocchi cooks quickly; watch closely to prevent overcooking.
- Adding lemon juice is optional but adds a nice brightness to the soup.
- Serve with crusty bread to make the meal more filling and comforting.
