Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you have a craving for something rich, comforting, and packed with incredible flavor, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is exactly what you need. Imagine tender potato gnocchi floating in a luscious, garlicky cream broth, enriched with shredded chicken, vibrant kale, and a touch of Parmesan cheese that ties every bite together beautifully. This soup is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly herbaceous notes that will warm you from the inside out and quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating its comforting texture and balanced flavors. From the soft gnocchi to the fragrant garlic and the fresh kale, every component builds upon the last to create a bowl of cozy perfection.

• Potato gnocchi: The star pasta that provides pillowy texture and soaks up the creamy broth.
• Shredded cooked chicken breasts: Adds hearty protein and savory depth without overpowering the soup.
• Unsalted butter: Used to sauté garlic and create a rich, flavorful base.
• Minced garlic cloves: Bursts of garlicky aroma and taste essential to the dish’s character.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, giving it that satisfying creamy consistency.
• “On Everything All-Purpose Blend” (or herbs and spices): A clever mix adding layers of savory, herby goodness.
• Sea salt: Enhances all flavors, bringing balance to the soup.
• Organic chicken stock (or vegetable broth): The flavorful liquid base that infuses richness.
• Organic heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream): Creates the silky, indulgent texture that makes this soup unforgettable.
• Organic kale (or spinach): For a fresh, green element and a slight earthiness.
• Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese): Melts beautifully, adding a nutty umami boost.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Build the Base

Start by melting the butter in a medium-sized Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This step is important for infusing the butter with garlicky goodness—which forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Next, sprinkle in the flour along with your “On Everything All-Purpose Blend” and sea salt, stirring constantly for one minute to lightly cook the flour and develop those delicious aromas.

Step 2: Add Broth and Cream for the Soup Base

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. As the mixture thickens, stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the soup begins to transform into that dreamy, silky texture you’re after. The cream perfectly balances the savory, garlicky essence you’ve built so far.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi, Chicken, and Greens

Once your base is ready, toss in the kale, shredded chicken, and potato gnocchi. Stir gently to combine, then let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know the gnocchi is done when it floats to the top and becomes tender to the bite, while the kale wilts down, adding a vibrant pop of color and a hint of earthiness to the creamy broth.

Step 4: Melt in Parmesan Cheese

Turn the heat to low and stir in the freshly-grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds a rich, nutty layer of umami that makes the soup irresistibly flavorful. Let it melt into the broth for another minute or two—it’s the final touch that pulls everything together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pot from heat and ladle out your Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup immediately while it’s warm and inviting. It’s perfect on its own or paired with your favorite crusty bread or fresh salad to complete the meal.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh, herbal brightness. A dusting of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add even more depth. If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its rich flavors. Think crusty garlic bread for dipping, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or even roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition. These sides round out the meal and make it feel truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup in rustic bowls or hollowed-out bread bowls to impress your guests. You can also top it with crispy prosciutto or toasted pine nuts for an unexpected crunch. If meal prep is your goal, pack it in individual mason jars for easy reheating and portion control.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the creamy texture and fresh flavors. The kale might darken slightly, but it won’t affect the taste—just give the soup a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup, but keep in mind the gnocchi can get a bit soft after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup base separately and add freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring often to prevent scorching. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high power to maintain the silky texture that makes this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup so delightful.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute vegan cheese in place of Parmesan. Swap chicken stock for vegetable broth and omit the chicken or replace it with plant-based protein or extra beans to keep it hearty.

Is it necessary to use gnocchi, or can I use another pasta?

Gnocchi is ideal because of its soft, pillowy texture, but you can replace it with small pasta like orzo or mini shells if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta doesn’t overcook.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté or top each bowl with a sprinkle of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper mixed into the broth also works beautifully without overpowering the flavors.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken for the soup?

Using two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken breasts works great for tender shreds. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed for quick shredding if you’re prepping in bulk.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of kale?

Definitely! Fresh spinach is a lovely alternative and wilts down faster, making it perfect if you want a milder green. Just add it towards the end of cooking so it doesn’t lose its vibrant color and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s rich, satisfying, and filled with flavors that invite you to savor every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving a hearty meal, this soup is guaranteed to make your day better. Give it a try—you’ll love how effortless it is to prepare and how wonderfully it fills your home with the smell of pure comfort and warmth.

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