Creamy Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Creamy Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich, hearty bowl of comfort that I turn to when I want something warm, filling, and full of classic Italian flavor. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth, it’s like a hug in a bowl. Whether I’m cooking for family or prepping ahead for the week, this soup never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this soup brings together everything I crave in one dish—creamy texture, savory chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables. It feels like something I’d order at a cozy Italian restaurant, but it’s so easy to make at home in just one pot. The gnocchi makes it satisfying enough to be a full meal, and the flavors only get better the next day. It’s also super adaptable depending on what’s in my fridge.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
• Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh spinach
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

directions

1. I start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. I add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened—about 5–7 minutes.

2. I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. I sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat the vegetables and form a light roux.

4. Slowly, I pour in the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. I add the shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, then stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and start floating.

6. I reduce the heat, stir in the heavy cream and spinach, and let it simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and the soup is creamy.

7. I season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it lighter: I use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

• Add mushrooms: I sauté sliced mushrooms along with the veggies for extra umami flavor.

• Spicy twist: I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian seasoning for a kick.

• Swap the greens: Kale or chopped Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach.

• Gluten-free option: I choose gluten-free gnocchi and use cornstarch to thicken instead of flour.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. The gnocchi may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so I add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the texture. I avoid boiling during reheating to prevent the cream from separating.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, I can. I dice raw chicken breast or thighs and sauté them with the veggies until fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe as usual.

Do I need to cook the gnocchi before adding?

No, I add the gnocchi straight into the soup. It cooks right in the broth, absorbing flavor and thickening the soup slightly.

Can I freeze this soup?

I don’t recommend freezing this soup, as the cream and gnocchi don’t hold up well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

What’s the best type of gnocchi to use?

I use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience, but homemade works beautifully if I have the time. Shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi all work fine.

Can I make it dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, I use plant-based cream and skip the Parmesan. I also make sure the gnocchi doesn’t contain dairy.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is everything I want in a comfort meal—rich, cozy, and full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and creamy broth with herbs and vegetables creates a dish that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. Whether it’s a chilly night or I just need something nourishing and delicious, this soup always hits the spot.