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.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe – Creamy, Comforting & Easy to Make

Name: Chicken Gnocchi Soup – A Creamy, Comforting Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 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)

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

Scale

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