A bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Tender shredded chicken, delicate potato dumplings and sun-dried tomatoes create a satisfying combination of flavours and textures, while Parmesan and fresh herbs give the broth an irresistible aroma.

Inspired by the Italian-style dish known as Marry Me Chicken, this recipe transforms familiar ingredients into a hearty one-pot dinner. The creamy broth has a pleasant richness, balanced by the gentle tanginess of tomatoes and the freshness of basil.

What Makes This Soup Special?

The secret lies in building flavour gradually. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated sweetness and gentle tanginess, while their infused oil creates a fragrant base for cooking the shallot and garlic.

Tomato paste adds depth, fresh thyme brings an earthy aroma, and Parmesan gives the broth a savoury richness.

Unlike traditional creamy soups that rely on large quantities of cream, this recipe uses just a small amount. The gnocchi also release some starch as they cook, helping the broth develop a pleasing consistency.

Precooked chicken makes the dish particularly convenient, while fresh basil adds brightness just before serving.

Ingredients For Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Servings:10

Preparation time:15 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Calories: Approximately 395 per serving

¾ cup thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes

2 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar

1 shallot, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 tablespoon tomato paste

3 sprigs fresh thyme

8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 oz (28 g) finely grated Parmesan, approximately ½ cup

1 Parmesan rind

16 oz (454 g) packaged gnocchi

12 oz (340 g) cooked, shredded chicken

¼ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, torn, for serving

How To Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the aromatic base.

Heat the reserved tomato oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and garlic, then season with ½ teaspoon of salt.

Cook for two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallot becomes translucent and the garlic releases its aroma.

Step 2: Build the tomato flavour.

Add the tomato paste and stir continuously for one to two minutes, allowing it to darken slightly.

Add the thyme sprigs and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Continue cooking for approximately two minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the broth.

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the crushed red pepper flakes and Parmesan rind.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for approximately ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broth reduces slightly.

Remove the thyme sprigs and Parmesan rind.

Step 4: Cook the gnocchi and chicken.

Add the packaged gnocchi, shredded chicken and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.

Return the soup to a gentle simmer and cook according to the gnocchi package instructions, stirring occasionally.

Once the gnocchi are tender and the chicken is heated through, stir in the cream and grated Parmesan until the cheese melts.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Garnish and serve.

Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls and finish with torn fresh basil leaves.

Serve immediately while the gnocchi are soft and the broth is creamy.

Tips For The Best Results

Choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as their seasoned oil forms an important part of the flavour base.

Rotisserie chicken is particularly convenient, although any simply seasoned, precooked chicken will work.

Avoid boiling the soup vigorously after adding the cream, as gentle heat helps maintain a smooth consistency.

If the broth becomes too thick, add a little extra chicken stock until it reaches your preferred texture.

How To Store Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and consume within three days.

The gnocchi will continue absorbing liquid during storage, so the soup may become thicker overnight.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth and warm gently, stirring occasionally.

With its tender chicken, aromatic tomato broth and creamy finish, this comforting recipe is an easy way to bring restaurant-style flavour to an everyday dinner.