Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. This rich soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth, making it a satisfying meal on its own. It’s easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A rich, creamy soup that’s both hearty and comforting.
• Loaded with vegetables, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi.
• Easy to make in one pot, with minimal cleanup.
• Customizable with different vegetables or proteins.
• Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a meal prep option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil or butter
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)
• Gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (sliced or diced)
• Celery (sliced)
• Spinach (fresh or frozen)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Milk (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh thyme or dried Italian seasoning

Optional Toppings:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley
• Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add Broth and Chicken:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and stir in shredded chicken. Add thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Cook Gnocchi:
   • Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes) until they float to the surface.
4. Add Spinach:
   • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, until wilted.
5. Make it Creamy:
   • Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and milk. To thicken, whisk flour or cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese or parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 6 servings.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add white beans or chickpeas for protein.
• Low-Carb: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herby Upgrade: Stir in fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the gnocchi) for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred it and add it to the soup.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free gnocchi and thicken the soup with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Both potato and cauliflower gnocchi work well. Shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi can be used.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

Add extra chicken broth or milk as needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas are great additions.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter soup. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk.

Why is my soup not thickening?

Ensure your slurry is well-mixed before adding it to the soup. Let it simmer to activate the thickening agent.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the chicken, broth, and vegetables on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream, spinach, and gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and soft gnocchi make it a hit with kids.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a large pot to make a bigger batch.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the perfect comfort food, offering a rich and hearty bowl of flavor that’s easy to prepare. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite bread, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal!

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