This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and creamy broth, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
I love how quick this soup is to make, especially when you’re craving something comforting. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a winning meal! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A flavorful base for sautéing. You can swap it with butter or coconut oil for a different taste. Each brings its own unique flavor profile, so you might enjoy experimenting!
Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease, or any leftover cooked chicken works wonders. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try adding chickpeas or tofu as the protein.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is convenient, but homemade can be fluffier. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi options available in stores.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vitamins, but you can use kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. Just chop them up and toss them in—both will give a hearty texture and flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or coconut milk. While it will change the flavor a bit, it still keeps the soup creamy!
How Do You Get the Right Flavor Balance in the Soup?
Getting the flavors just right in your Chicken Gnocchi Soup is key! Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they’re fragrant—the base of most great soups.
- After sautéing, add your spices like thyme and dill early on to release their flavors.
- Simmer the broth with your chicken for at least 10 minutes. This step helps the chicken and spices blend beautifully!
- As you stir in the cream and flour mixture, keep the soup on low heat to maintain that creamy texture without it curdling. Stir frequently!
By following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously balanced soup every time! Enjoy every warm spoonful!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Gnocchi & Creaminess:
- 2 cups potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time, making it a great option for a quick, hearty meal! You’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready in just about 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma should fill your kitchen with a savory smell!
2. Add Chicken and Broth:
Next, stir in the dried thyme and dill (if you’re using it). Then, add the shredded or diced cooked chicken and pour in the chicken broth. Let everything come to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 10 minutes so that all the flavors meld together nicely.
3. Mix in the Cream & Flour:
While your soup simmers, grab a small bowl. Whisk together the heavy cream and flour until you have a smooth mixture—this will help thicken your soup later. Set this aside for the next step.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Now, it’s time to add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions, which is usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top. This means they are perfectly cooked and ready to go!
5. Thicken the Soup:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in your cream-flour mixture. Keep stirring frequently, and let the soup cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency. It should be creamy and comforting!
6. Add Spinach:
Now, add the roughly chopped spinach to the pot. Stir it in and let it cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2 minutes. You’ll see it become vibrant and lovely in the soup!
7. Season & Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Soup:
Ladle your Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls and serve warm, ideally paired with some crusty bread. There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to lift your spirits!
Enjoy this creamy, hearty Chicken Gnocchi Soup on chilly days or whenever you need a little comfort food. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Cooked, shredded chicken works well too!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this soup dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also omit the cheese garnish or use a dairy-free cheese option.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For added flavor, consider throwing in a splash of lemon juice or zest just before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil also boost the freshness of the soup!