Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something truly magical about Chicken Gnocchi Soup that instantly feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This hearty, creamy comfort food features pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and a rich broth loaded with fresh vegetables—all coming together in a perfect blend that soothes the soul and warms every chilly night. Whether you’re battling cold weather or simply craving a bowl of pure coziness, Chicken Gnocchi Soup offers a delicious escape into familiar flavors that never fail to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy broth combined with soft gnocchi delivers a soothing experience with every spoonful.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein, fresh veggies, and satisfying carbs to keep you energized.
• Family Favorite: Appeals to kids and adults alike thanks to its mild, inviting flavors.
• Versatile Base: Easily customizable with different herbs, veggies, or protein options to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering quality, simple ingredients is key to mastering this classic Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Each component brings a distinct texture, flavor, or color that transforms this soup into a comforting bowl of goodness.

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: For tender, juicy protein that forms the hearty base of the soup.
• Pillowy Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade, these soft potato dumplings soak up the broth perfectly.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and spinach add freshness, crunch, and vibrant green color.
• Chicken Broth: A rich, savory foundation that unites every ingredient in flavor.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Adds that luscious creamy texture that makes the soup so comforting.
• Garlic and Onions: Essential aromatics that bring warmth and depth to the broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper lift the flavors without overwhelming them.

Variations for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so you can easily modify it to fit dietary needs or taste preferences. Whether you want to lighten it up or make it heartier, these variations bring fresh ideas to your table.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit chicken, adding extra mushrooms or squash for depth.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a gentle heat boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi or substitute with small rice-shaped pasta.
• Low-Carb Twist: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi for fewer carbs and a different texture.
• Extra Protein: Stir in cooked bacon pieces or shredded rotisserie chicken for enhanced flavor and protein.

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the onions, carrots, and celery so everything is ready for cooking. Wash the spinach thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Then add the chicken and sear until just cooked through, locking in flavor and juices.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then let everything simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors and soften the vegetables.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering soup. These little dumplings cook quickly, swelling and puffing up in just a few minutes.

Step 5: Finish With Cream and Greens

Lower the heat and stir in the cream along with fresh spinach and herbs. Cook for another few minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is irresistibly creamy and smooth.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Use Fresh Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi gives a lighter, fluffier texture than frozen varieties.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: They cook very quickly and become mushy if left too long—add them last!
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go to perfectly balance the herbs and salt.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit a few minutes off the heat before serving to deepen the flavors.
• Add Greens at the End: Spinach or kale added at the last step keeps them vibrant and fresh.

How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top to brighten the flavors and add a touch of elegance to every bowl.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a simple arugula salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bread bowls for a fun, edible twist or offer a variety of homemade flavored oils or crushed red pepper flakes so guests can personalize their bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it even better.

Freezing

While gnocchi can get mushy when frozen, you can freeze the soup base separately without the gnocchi for up to 2 months. Add fresh gnocchi when reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the perfect consistency. Avoid microwaving for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Gnocchi Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in a slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 4-6 hours before adding gnocchi and cream near the end.

Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Yes. Use coconut milk or any plant-based cream substitute in place of heavy cream, and ensure the broth and gnocchi are dairy-free to keep it creamy yet allergy-friendly.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done?

Gnocchi cook very fast—usually just 2-3 minutes once added to boiling soup. When they float to the surface and feel tender, they’re ready.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Definitely! Shredded or diced cooked chicken works perfectly and can save time without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?

Frozen spinach works well as an alternative; just thaw and drain excess liquid before stirring into the soup toward the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Gnocchi Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a cozy experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite. Its creamy richness, tender bites of chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi make it a recipe worth keeping close, especially when you need a little extra comfort. I hope you give this soul-soothing soup a try and enjoy the simple pleasures it brings to your table!

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