Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender chunks of chicken mingling with pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a dreamy, garlicky cream broth that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. It’s simple to make but delivers layers of taste and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this soup shine. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding savory depth to contributing to the creamy, luscious texture and vibrant color that make this soup so inviting.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and a subtle fruity undertone.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender protein that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and complexity when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of this recipe, bringing bright, aromatic garlic punch.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates a savory and comforting liquid foundation.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the soup its signature creamy richness and luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi: Pillowy little pillows that absorb flavors and add heartiness.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped: Fresh greens that add color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbaceous warmth and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices and creates a savory base flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside—this keeps it tender while you build the soup layers.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This step is crucial—it builds the aromatic backbone of the soup that makes every spoonful so irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Gnocchi
Pour in your chicken broth and bring the pot to a boil. Once bubbling, stir in the gnocchi. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, generally about 3 minutes, so the gnocchi become perfectly tender yet hold their shape, adding a wonderful bite to the soup.
Step 4: Return the Chicken and Add Cream
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Let the soup gently simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly and the spinach to wilt, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give the soup a final taste test and adjust seasoning if needed. Pour yourself a generous bowl of this creamy, garlicky goodness and get ready to feel utterly cozy and satisfied.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowl, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add interesting flavor notes and a pop of color, making each serving absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pairing this soup with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread takes things up a notch. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness and adds a refreshing contrast to each creamy spoonful.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic touch that’s perfect for entertaining. You can also garnish with a few toasted pine nuts for crunch or swirl in a little pesto for an herbaceous twist that adds another dimension of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect prepped meal for busy days when you want something quick and satisfying.
Freezing
Because of the cream and potatoes in gnocchi, freezing can slightly change the texture of the soup. If you choose to freeze it, do so before adding the cream and spinach. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh cream and greens before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut that works wonderfully in this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or any creamy plant-based alternative, and use olive oil or dairy-free butter to keep the soup incredibly creamy with the same comfort factor.
What kind of gnocchi works best?
Fresh or frozen potato gnocchi both work perfectly. Just be sure to follow package cooking times closely to avoid overcooking and turning them mushy.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini make great additions if you want to sneak in extra veggies and add more texture to the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the onion and garlic sauté or serve with a dash of your favorite hot sauce to bring a spicy kick that balances the creaminess beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe is one of those beloved dishes that makes any day feel special. From the first spoonful, you’ll appreciate how approachable but flavorful it is—comfort food at its very best. Give it a try for your next cozy night in, and watch it quickly become a staple in your home kitchen.
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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup with garlic is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a cozy meal. Tender diced chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach are simmered in a flavorful broth enriched with heavy cream and Italian seasoning, creating a luscious, satisfying soup ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Gnocchi: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, about 3 minutes, until gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
- Return the Chicken and Add Cream: Add cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir in heavy cream, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly and the spinach wilts.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots for more nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- If spinach is not available, kale or Swiss chard can be a great substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
