Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something so satisfying about a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup—it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket after a long day. Picture this: tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth infused with the bold flavors of garlic and herbs. Every spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl, and trust me, it’s the kind of soup you’ll crave again and again. It’s easy, delicious, and the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Ready to dive in?

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Rich and Creamy: The creamy broth is perfectly balanced with garlic, making every bite indulgent without being overwhelming.
• Comforting: With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and hearty vegetables, this soup feels like a complete meal in a bowl.
• Quick and Easy: It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without all the fuss.
• Packed with Flavor: The garlic and fresh herbs elevate the taste of the chicken and gnocchi, creating a deep, savory broth that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
• Filling and Satisfying: The combination of chicken and gnocchi makes this soup hearty enough to keep you full and content, while still feeling light and fresh.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, garlicky soup:

For the Soup:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken works best, cooked and shredded for easy incorporation into the soup.
• Gnocchi: Soft and pillowy gnocchi is the perfect addition to this soup, making each bite comforting and filling.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key to bringing that rich, aromatic flavor that makes the soup so irresistible.
• Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and savory depth to the broth.
• Carrots: Adds a pop of color and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Celery: Adds texture and a mild, fresh flavor to the soup.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, bringing everything together in a warm, flavorful liquid.
• Heavy Cream: This makes the soup luxuriously creamy, giving it that rich texture.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Parsley): Fresh thyme and parsley add bright, fragrant notes that enhance the flavor of the broth.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and garlic.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and bring this creamy soup to life!

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken. You can either cook it in a pan with a little olive oil or butter, or poach it in a pot of simmering water. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic—it should just become aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add the Gnocchi

Once the broth is simmering, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook for 2-4 minutes (or according to the package directions) until the gnocchi is tender and floating to the top.

Step 6: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken the broth and the flavors to come together.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Add fresh thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and give the soup a final stir.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh parsley and thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 480 calories
• Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Vitamin A: 45%
• Vitamin C: 25%
• Calcium: 15%
• Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup is filling on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your meal:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Pair with a Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Topped with Parmesan: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Add Croutons: Crunchy croutons can add texture and a bit of extra flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or substitute with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
• Add Spinach or Kale: If you want to sneak in some greens, add a handful of spinach or kale to the soup just before serving. The heat will wilt the greens, adding color and nutrients.
• Customize the Gnocchi: If you can’t find traditional potato gnocchi, you can use cauliflower gnocchi or any other variety you prefer.
• Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in some hot sauce at the end.
• Prep Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, and it’ll be just as comforting when reheated!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

A1: Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it to the soup along with the cream.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup?

A2: This soup can be frozen, but the gnocchi may become slightly soft when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q3: Can I make this soup without gnocchi?

A3: Yes, you can substitute gnocchi with small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or even leftover mashed potatoes. Just cook the pasta according to the package directions and add it to the soup.

Q4: Can I make this soup dairy-free?

A4: Yes! Use coconut milk or any plant-based milk and dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream to replace the heavy cream and cheese. Just be aware the flavor will change slightly.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

A6: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Just add them in when you add the gnocchi.

Q7: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A7: Absolutely! You can make the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store the gnocchi separately if you want it to stay nice and pillowy.

Q8: Is this soup spicy?

A8: Not really! It’s mild and creamy, but if you prefer some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Q9: Can I use frozen gnocchi?

A9: Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this soup. Just add it straight into the pot without thawing, and it’ll cook up beautifully.

Q10: Can I make this soup vegetarian?

A10: Yes! You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this creamy soup.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you need in a comforting meal: rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something easy, satisfying, and warming. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a savory garlic-infused broth, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this bowl of comfort will have you coming back for more. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

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