Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

This delightful chicken gnocchi soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings. It combines tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth into a dish that feels both gourmet and homey. To better appreciate this classic, a look into the history of gnocchi reveals its rich culinary evolution. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this easy recipe will quickly become a cherished family favorite. Get ready for cozy comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

You will adore this homemade chicken gnocchi soup for countless reasons. It transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal, ideal for busy weeknights. The soup offers a truly comforting, creamy, and wonderfully satisfying experience with every spoonful. You get that incredible restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. Plus, this recipe uses easy-to-find, accessible ingredients, making preparation a breeze. It is truly perfect for those cozy evenings when you crave warmth and flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this comforting chicken gnocchi soup. You only need a few simple components to build incredible depth of flavor. This list ensures you have everything on hand for a perfect, hearty meal.

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced)
• 1 stalk of celery (chopped)
• ½ white onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 16 ounces potato gnocchi
• 2 cups half and half (see note)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

Notes & Substitutions

For the chicken, feel free to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time, or boil and dice fresh chicken breasts. If you desire an even richer soup, swap the half-and-half for heavy cream, though half-and-half provides plenty of creaminess. You can easily substitute fresh kale for the spinach; just add it a few minutes earlier to allow it to wilt properly. For dietary needs, gluten-free potato gnocchi works beautifully in this creamy soup. Consider adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives at the end for a bright, fresh finish. These small adjustments help you customize your perfect bowl of gnocchi chicken soup.

Equipment

Making this delicious creamy chicken gnocchi soup requires only a few standard kitchen tools. You likely already have everything you need in your pantry. A large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven is essential for even cooking and ample space. You will also need basic kitchen utensils such as a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring. A cutting board and a sharp chef’s knife are perfect for preparing the vegetables and dicing the chicken efficiently.

Instructions

Creating this comforting chicken gnocchi soup is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result.

1. Prep Ingredients: Begin by preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking. Dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Finely chop the celery and dice the white onion. Mince your garlic thoroughly and shred the carrots. This mise en place approach ensures a smooth cooking process for your homemade chicken soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped celery, diced onions, minced garlic, and shredded carrots to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften, releasing their fragrant aromas.
3. Add Chicken & Broth: Next, stir in the diced, cooked chicken with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and thyme. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors evenly. This step builds the savory base for your rich and creamy gnocchi soup.
4. Bring to Boil: Increase the heat slightly and bring the liquid in the pot to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it to ensure it does not boil too rapidly. A steady, gentle boil is perfect for the next step, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully before adding the gnocchi.
5. Stir in Gnocchi: Once the broth is boiling, gently stir in the potato gnocchi. Make sure they are submerged in the liquid. Continue to boil the soup for another 3-4 minutes. This initial cook time starts to soften the gnocchi. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the gnocchi from breaking apart.
6. Simmer Soup: After the initial boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let the soup cook for an additional 10 minutes. During this time, the gnocchi will finish cooking through, becoming plump and tender. The soup will also begin to thicken slightly as the flavors deepen and meld together, creating a rich texture.
7. Add Dairy & Spinach: Carefully stir in the half-and-half, ensuring it fully incorporates into the soup. Then, add the roughly chopped fresh spinach. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently. The heat of the soup will quickly wilt the spinach, adding vibrant color and nutrients to the dish.
8. Finish & Serve: Once the spinach is tender and fully wilted, your creamy chicken gnocchi soup is ready. Remove the pot from the heat. The soup should be wonderfully thick and aromatic, with perfectly cooked gnocchi.
9. Taste & Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt and pepper to your preference. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Gnocchi Don’t Stick: Prevent gnocchi from becoming gummy by not overcooking them. Follow the timing in the instructions closely and only add them when the broth is boiling. Overcooked gnocchi can turn mushy quickly.

Flavor Boosts: Elevate the flavor profile of your homemade chicken gnocchi soup with a pinch of nutmeg added with the thyme. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can also brighten the overall taste.

Thickening Soup: If your soup is thinner than desired, you have a few options. Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering soup and cook until thickened.

Prevent Curdling: To maintain a smooth and creamy texture, explore tips to prevent dairy curdling in soups and other dishes. To ensure the half-and-half incorporates smoothly without curdling, warm it slightly in a separate microwave-safe bowl before adding it to the hot soup. Stir it in slowly and consistently.

Make Ahead Tips: For meal prep, cook the soup through step 6. Store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the base, then add the half-and-half and spinach. This ensures perfectly fresh gnocchi and dairy.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

Serving Suggestions

Serve your warm and inviting chicken gnocchi soup with a side of crusty bread or warm focaccia for dipping into the rich broth. A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette also complements the heartiness of the soup beautifully. Garnish each bowl generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover creamy gnocchi soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals. If the soup appears too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Easily transform this into a vegetarian delight by omitting the chicken entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful meat-free alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the thyme. This introduces a subtle, warming spice to your creamy chicken gnocchi soup.
• Different Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, diced zucchini, or chopped bell peppers would be wonderful additions, enhancing flavor and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative instead of half-and-half. Ensure your gnocchi is also dairy-free if following strict dietary guidelines.

Nutrition Information

Please note that the following nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and standard cooking methods. Actual values may vary depending on specific product brands and preparation. This information is intended for general guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use uncooked chicken in this chicken gnocchi soup recipe?

A: Yes, you can. Dice the raw chicken and sauté it in the pot with the vegetables until cooked through before adding the broth.

Q: What type of gnocchi works best for this soup?

A: Store-bought potato gnocchi is ideal for this recipe. It cooks quickly and achieves a wonderfully tender texture in the creamy broth.

Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Substitute the half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious, creamy result.

Q: How do I prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy in the soup?

A: The key is not to overcook the gnocchi. Follow the suggested cooking times closely and remove the soup from heat as soon as they are tender.

Q: Can I freeze chicken gnocchi soup?

A: Freezing is generally not recommended for soups with gnocchi or dairy. Both ingredients can change texture significantly upon thawing, becoming mushy or separating.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly comforting and satisfying meal. It is perfect for beginners and busy parents alike, offering a delicious homemade option without hours in the kitchen. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe soon and experience its warmth. Share your delicious creations and tell us how your family enjoyed this wonderful, hearty soup!

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup combines tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a rich broth. It’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.

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Course: Soup

Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1/2 white onion, diced
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting Board
• Chef's knife
• wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

1. Dice the cooked chicken, chop the celery and onion, mince the garlic, and shred the carrots. Have all ingredients prepped for smooth cooking.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent and vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Stir in the diced chicken and chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Bring soup to a gentle boil. Add gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10 minutes. Gnocchi will cook fully and soup will begin to thicken.
6. Add half and half and spinach. Stir gently and cook for 1-2 more minutes until spinach wilts.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with optional toppings like fresh parsley or Parmesan.

Notes

You can substitute heavy cream for an even richer soup, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time. Kale can replace spinach—just cook it a few minutes longer. Gluten-free gnocchi also works well.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com