If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a cozy hug in a spoon, then this Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe will be your new go-to. Imagine pillowy gnocchi swimming in a creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and hearty veggies all melding together perfectly. This soup strikes that wonderful balance between rich and light, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a leisurely weekend treat. Bonus? It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, so you’ll be savoring deliciousness in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role— from the savory chicken broth that forms the base to the fresh veggies that add texture and brightness, to the gnocchi that bring a delightful chewiness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, creamy foundation and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter, preventing burning and adding a delicate fruitiness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth as it softens.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and a subtle bite.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a tender crunch.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Brings a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that complements the chicken.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the broth into a creamy, luscious consistency.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, delivering savory depth and comfort.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Offers protein and satisfying substance.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Creates that irresistible creamy texture without overpowering richness.
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped: Adds color, nutrients, and a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1 pound potato gnocchi: Soft, pillowy, and perfectly tender, a delightful twist on traditional noodles.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A gentle herbaceous note that elevates the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without dominating.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the dish.
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics and veggies
Start by warming the butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and fill your kitchen with their inviting aroma. This step builds the foundational flavors that will make your soup truly comforting.
Step 2: Create the roux and add broth
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour evenly across the veggies, then stir constantly for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps and create a smooth, velvety base. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly for 5 minutes—this will give your soup that rich, creamy texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Add chicken, dairy, and seasoning
Stir in your shredded cooked chicken along with the half-and-half, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This is where your soup starts to come together, with the creamy dairy melding beautifully with the tender chicken and fragrant herbs.
Step 4: Cook the gnocchi and spinach
Add the potato gnocchi directly to the simmering soup. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they float to the surface and become tender—this signals they’re perfectly done. Lastly, toss in the chopped baby spinach and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until just wilted, adding a fresh burst of color and nutrition.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning
Give your soup a final taste and tweak the salt and pepper if needed. This last step ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to crown your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley to amplify the flavors and add a touch of elegance. A little swirl of olive oil or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This soup stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a crisp mixed green salad turns it into a full, satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth—an absolute must!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe in rustic bowls to enhance the comforting vibe or in mason jars for a cute, portable lunch option. You could even layer some soup and toppings in clear glass mugs for a visually delightful presentation, perfect for impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or dinners the next day. The flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even more delicious!
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that gnocchi may change texture slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and cook fresh gnocchi when ready to serve. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add cooked gnocchi at this stage to avoid overcooking. If the soup is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or half-and-half to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cooked chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time without sacrificing quality.
What can I substitute for half-and-half if I want a dairy-free version?
Full-fat coconut milk is a wonderful alternative that keeps the soup creamy and adds a subtle tropical twist.
Is it okay to use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works just fine. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time until they float and become tender.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or kale are fantastic additions that can complement the existing flavors beautifully.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while cooking or topping each bowl with a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, comforting, and simple flavors that will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend, this soup is guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and watch it become your favorite easy comfort food in no time!
Print
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting American classic packed with tender shredded chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a savory broth thickened with a delicate roux. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines simple ingredients and a straightforward stovetop cooking method to deliver rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Soup Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour onto the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Add Main Ingredients: Stir in shredded chicken, half-and-half, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, combining everything evenly in the pot.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
- Incorporate Spinach: Add the chopped baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the soup.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and speeds up preparation.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra cozy depth of flavor.
