Chicken Gnocchi Soup – A Creamy, Comforting Classic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting, and hearty dish packed with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a warm, satisfying meal. Inspired by the famous Olive Garden version, this homemade soup is even better and ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, shredded or finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or kale for variation)
- 1 pound (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add Chicken and Broth:
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Cook the Gnocchi:
- Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top).
Make it Creamy:
- Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing Tip: Since gnocchi can become mushy when frozen, freeze the soup without gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 28g
Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup. This dish is packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly evening, a family gathering, or simply when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Unlike traditional chicken noodle soup, chicken gnocchi soup brings a unique twist by using gnocchi—small, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes. These absorb the broth’s flavor, giving the soup a delightful texture. Plus, the combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and cream ensures every spoonful is bursting with rich, savory goodness.
In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to make the best chicken gnocchi soup at home. We’ll cover ingredient substitutions, expert cooking tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees restaurant-quality results.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also:
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
- One-pot magic – Fewer dishes to clean means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Creamy yet light – A perfect balance between richness and freshness.
- Customizable – Works with different proteins, veggies, and dairy substitutes.
📌 Did you know? This soup is inspired by the famous Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, but this homemade version is even better!
Ingredients & Substitutions for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
For a soup that’s both flavorful and hearty, start with high-quality ingredients. Below is a breakdown of everything you need, including potential swaps.
Ingredient List & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitutions & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (shredded) | 2 cups | Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience. |
| Gnocchi | 1 package | Choose fresh, store-bought, or homemade gnocchi. |
| Carrots (chopped) | 1 cup | Can substitute with sweet potatoes for extra sweetness. |
| Celery (chopped) | ½ cup | Adds crunch and flavor balance. |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | White or yellow onions work best. |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Adjust according to taste preference. |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels. |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For a lighter version, use half-and-half. |
| Spinach (fresh) | 2 cups | Swap with kale for a different texture. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Can replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option. |
| Flour | 2 tbsp | Use gluten-free flour if needed. |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Or use basil, oregano, and thyme individually. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust based on personal preference. |
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
🔥 Pro Tip: Cook the onions until they’re translucent for a milder flavor, or let them caramelize slightly for a deeper, richer taste.
2. Add the Chicken and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the shredded chicken. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Thicken the Soup
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and a few tablespoons of broth until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let it cook for 5 minutes until thickened. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
4. Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly into the soup—no need to pre-cook! Let them simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface, signaling they’re done.
🔥 Avoid overcooking—gnocchi can become too soft and break apart in the soup.
5. Finish with Spinach
Turn off the heat and stir in fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt the leaves gently without overcooking them. Let the soup sit for 2 minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Even a simple recipe can go wrong. Avoid these common pitfalls:
1. Overcooking the Gnocchi
Gnocchi cooks very quickly. If left in the broth too long, it will become mushy. Add it toward the end and serve immediately.
2. Not Thickening the Broth Properly
A creamy soup needs a thick, velvety base. To achieve this:
- Use flour and butter to create a roux before adding liquid.
- Stir in heavy cream gradually to prevent curdling.
3. Skipping the Seasoning
Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning bring out the flavors in the soup. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
📌 For a richer, nuttier taste, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Variations – Customize Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This soup is highly adaptable. Here are some creative ways to make it your own:
1. Dairy-Free Version
Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. It’s just as creamy but much lighter!
2. Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free gnocchi and replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
3. Protein-Packed Version
For extra protein, add white beans or an additional cup of shredded chicken.
Serving Suggestions – What to Eat with Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance its flavor and texture. Whether you want a crunchy contrast, extra protein, or a light, refreshing balance, these serving suggestions will round out your meal perfectly.
1. Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread
Few things pair as well with soup as freshly baked bread. A warm, crusty baguette, sliced sourdough, or buttery garlic bread makes the perfect dipping companion for this creamy dish. The crispy exterior and soft interior of the bread absorb the soup’s rich, garlicky broth, adding another layer of indulgence.
2. Fresh Green Salad
A crisp, fresh salad provides a great contrast to the richness of the soup. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons. The tangy dressing and crisp greens help balance the creaminess of the dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables
For a nutrient-packed side, roast a tray of Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The caramelized edges and deep, savory flavors pair well with the creamy broth, making this a great way to add texture and depth to your meal.
📌 Looking for another cozy soup? Try this best tomato soup recipe for a creamy, tangy alternative!
Pro Tips & Variations for the Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This chicken gnocchi soup recipe is already packed with flavor, but small adjustments can make it even better. Whether you want to lighten it up, add extra protein, or experiment with new flavors, here are some expert tips and variations.
1. Make It Extra Creamy
- Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the gnocchi to achieve a thick, velvety texture.
- Stir in ½ cup of cream cheese or mascarpone for an ultra-rich, smooth consistency.
2. Lighten It Up
- Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
- Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture without extra fat.
3. Enhance the Flavor
- A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy broth.
- Stir in a splash of dry white wine when sautéing the onions for extra depth.
📌 Love citrusy soups? This tangy lemon rice soup recipe is a bright and comforting alternative!
4. One-Pot Meal Enhancements
- Add white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
FAQs – Answering Your Most Asked Questions
Should you cook gnocchi before adding it to soup?
No, gnocchi cooks directly in the broth and absorbs the flavors while softening. Pre-cooking can make them mushy and overcooked by the time the soup is ready.
Is chicken gnocchi soup good when sick?
Yes! This soup is nourishing, warm, and easy to digest, making it a great option when you’re feeling under the weather. The protein-rich chicken, vitamin-packed vegetables, and soothing broth provide essential nutrients for recovery.
How many calories are in a typical bowl of chicken noodle soup?
A standard chicken noodle soup contains about 150-200 calories per cup, depending on the ingredients and broth-to-noodle ratio.
Can you freeze chicken gnocchi soup?
Yes, but with caution. The gnocchi and cream may change texture upon thawing, becoming mushy or slightly separated. To freeze successfully:
Freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
Stir in cream after reheating for better consistency.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use:
Gluten-free gnocchi, available at most grocery stores.
Cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
How do I store and reheat chicken gnocchi soup?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to restore consistency.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Follow these steps:
Add all ingredients except gnocchi, spinach, and cream to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Stir in gnocchi, spinach, and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
📌 For a hands-free approach, this slow cooker method makes a rich, flavorful meal with minimal effort!
Conclusion – Why You Should Try This Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This chicken gnocchi soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or preparing a meal for family and friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
By following these step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and variations, you can create a restaurant-quality soup from the comfort of your kitchen. No matter your preference—whether you like it extra creamy, packed with vegetables, or dairy-free—this recipe is versatile, easy, and absolutely delicious.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the process, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of homemade chicken gnocchi soup today!