Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup – Rich, Comforting, and Ready in 30 Minutes
When you’re craving something warm, cozy, and satisfying, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup hits every note. Tender chicken, soft pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach are all simmered in a velvety garlic cream broth that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of hearty, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl — perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need an easy, soul-warming dinner.
This homemade version tastes like something from your favorite Italian restaurant but comes together in one pot and under 30 minutes. It’s creamy without being heavy, garlicky without being overpowering, and absolutely packed with flavor.
If you love Olive Garden’s chicken gnocchi soup, this version takes it up a notch with more depth, richness, and freshness — and it’s incredibly simple to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1. Comfort food at its best
Creamy, garlicky, and satisfying — it’s everything you want in a cozy soup.
2. One-pot simplicity
Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup easy and hassle-free.
3. Fast and family-friendly
Ready in 30 minutes, with flavors the whole family will love.
4. Perfectly creamy texture
Rich and velvety without feeling too heavy.
5. Great for leftovers
Tastes even better the next day — ideal for meal prep.
6. Customizable
Swap in rotisserie chicken, add veggies, or use gluten-free gnocchi to fit your preferences.
What You’ll Need
You only need a handful of basic ingredients to make this hearty soup.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 pound (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley or basil
- Extra cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the flour coats the vegetables and begins to cook slightly.
This step helps thicken the soup and create that creamy texture.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
Once incorporated, add the heavy cream and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
As it heats, the soup will begin to thicken slightly — rich, creamy, and full of garlic aroma.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Gnocchi
Stir in the shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Then add the gnocchi directly into the simmering soup.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi float to the top and become tender.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach.
It will wilt almost instantly in the hot soup, adding a pop of color and freshness to the rich cream base.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.
Serve it warm with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
It adds great flavor and saves time. - Don’t overcook the gnocchi.
Once they float to the surface, they’re ready — any longer and they can get mushy. - Add more broth for a thinner soup.
If you prefer a lighter consistency, add an extra cup of broth near the end. - Use fresh garlic.
Garlic powder works in a pinch, but fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor. - Reheat gently.
Cream-based soups can separate if boiled. Warm leftovers slowly over low heat. - Make it gluten-free.
Use gluten-free gnocchi and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for thickening.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.
Protein Variations
Bacon or Pancetta:
Sauté 2–3 strips before adding the veggies for a smoky flavor.
Sausage:
Use cooked Italian sausage in place of chicken for a heartier version.
Vegetarian Option:
Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or white beans for protein.
Add-Ins and Enhancements
Mushrooms:
Sauté with the onions for earthy flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, rich contrast.
Herb Lovers:
Add extra fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary to elevate the aroma.
Spicy Version:
Stir in 1 tablespoon of chili paste or more crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup is comforting on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like:
- Crusty garlic bread or homemade focaccia
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
- Gluten-free breadsticks or rolls
For a restaurant-style meal at home, serve it with a side of Caesar salad and Parmesan crisps — perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Freezer:
Because this soup contains cream and gnocchi, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
However, if you want to freeze it, cook everything except the gnocchi, freeze, then add cooked gnocchi later when reheating.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the soup base (without gnocchi and spinach) up to 2 days in advance.
Store it in the fridge, then reheat, add gnocchi and spinach, and cook until done before serving.
This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
Troubleshooting
Soup too thick:
Add more broth or cream until desired consistency is reached.
Soup too thin:
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water).
Separated cream:
Avoid boiling after adding the cream. Gentle simmering keeps the soup smooth.
Bland flavor:
Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to enhance the savory depth.
Gnocchi too soft:
Cook gnocchi just until they float; remove promptly to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi work perfectly. Just check cooking times on the package.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely — zucchini, kale, peas, or mushrooms are great additions.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
For best results, freeze without the gnocchi and cream, then add them fresh when reheating.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, it’s a great way to use Thanksgiving or roast leftovers.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
(Nutrition values may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.)
Why This Recipe Works
The key to this soup’s creamy, dreamy texture lies in the simple combination of a light roux, quality broth, and just enough cream to add richness without heaviness. The gnocchi soak up the flavors of the garlic and herbs, while the shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness.
Everything is balanced — not too thick, not too thin — with a smooth, velvety finish and the unmistakable aroma of fresh garlic. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies both comfort and freshness in one spoonful.
Tips for Customizing Your Soup Routine
- Double the batch for meal prep.
It reheats beautifully and makes a great lunch option. - Use leftover chicken or turkey.
Cuts cooking time and adds convenience. - Serve with toppings.
Try crispy bacon bits, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil. - Make it spicy.
Add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce for a kick. - Add a squeeze of lemon.
Brightens up the richness and adds balance to the creamy base.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything you want in a comforting homemade meal — rich, hearty, and full of flavor, yet easy enough for any weeknight. It’s a perfect combination of creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and savory chicken with just the right hint of garlic and herbs.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or meal prep lunches, this recipe never disappoints. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes — proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
One bowl, one pot, endless comfort. This soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
