Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty, creamy soup that combines tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. This soup is incredibly satisfying and perfect for cozy dinners, cold evenings, or anytime you want a comforting bowl of goodness.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures: soft gnocchi that melts in your mouth, juicy chicken, and crisp vegetables in a luscious, creamy base. It’s quick enough for weeknights but indulgent enough to serve to guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Gnocchi Soup because it’s comfort in a bowl. The gnocchi is soft, chewy, and warms you from the inside out. Combined with shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and spinach in a creamy, slightly cheesy broth, every bite feels indulgent yet wholesome.

It’s also a flexible and forgiving recipe: you can use rotisserie chicken to save time, frozen gnocchi for convenience, and adjust vegetables to your liking. The creamy base is rich but not overwhelming, making it the perfect cozy soup for any season.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Pillowy gnocchi: Provides a unique texture compared to regular soups.
• Creamy and comforting: Rich but light, perfect for family meals.
• Quick and easy: Can be made in under an hour with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Add more veggies, spices, or cheese according to preference.
• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~400–450 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Soup / Main Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in butter until softened.
2. Add garlic, herbs, and spices.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add chicken and gnocchi; cook until gnocchi is tender.
5. Stir in cream, spinach, and Parmesan.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

1. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
2. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi

1. Stir in shredded chicken.
2. Add gnocchi and simmer for 3–5 minutes (or according to package instructions) until the gnocchi floats to the top and is cooked through.

Step 5: Add Cream and Greens

1. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach.
2. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle into bowls.
2. Optional: garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of black pepper.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course or hearty appetizer.
• Pair with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
• Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Recipe Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds flavor.
• Frozen gnocchi: No need to thaw; cook directly in the soup.
• Avoid overcooking gnocchi: It can become mushy if simmered too long.
• Cream alternatives: Half-and-half or milk can be used for lighter soup.
• Add vegetables: Mushrooms, peas, or zucchini work well.

Variations

1. Cheesy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
2. Vegetable-Enriched Soup: Add zucchini, corn, or bell peppers.
3. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
4. Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients (except cream and gnocchi) in a slow cooker; add gnocchi and cream in the last 10 minutes.
5. Low-Carb Version: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi or spiralized zucchini.

Freezing and Storage

To Store:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if too thick.

To Freeze:

• Soup can be frozen without cream and gnocchi for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add cream and cook gnocchi fresh before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Optional: grater for Parmesan cheese

Conclusion

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting, and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a family favorite that warms both body and soul.

Every spoonful delivers creamy satisfaction, soft gnocchi, and a comforting blend of flavors — a true comfort food classic.