Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, creamy soup with tender chicken and soft potato gnocchi. People love it for the comfort it brings. It works for cold nights and cozy family dinners. If you like simple, filling meals, this soup fits the bill. For other quick chicken meals, try the 15-minute lemon basil chicken salad for a light side or weeknight change.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is easy and beginner-friendly. You use common ingredients from the pantry and fridge. It cooks fast and needs little hands-on time. The soup fills a family without costing much. Leftovers keep well and make good lunches the next day. If you enjoy simple chicken dishes, you might also like these cheesy garlic chicken wraps for a quick packed meal.

What makes Chicken Gnocchi Soup special

The gnocchi gives a pillowy texture that stands out from regular noodle soups. The mix of cream, chicken, and vegetables makes it rich but homey. Spinach adds color and a light, fresh bite. The soup balances comfort and simple nutrition. It feels like homemade food even when you make it fast.

Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthy

This soup can be balanced and satisfying. It has protein from chicken and vitamins from the carrots, celery, and spinach. Using a moderate amount of heavy cream keeps it rich while still being a single-pot meal. You can control the salt and portion sizes at home. It is not a medical plan, just a wholesome family meal option.

How to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

The method is straightforward and low-stress. You sautée the aromatics and vegetables, add broth and seasoning, then simmer the soup. Finish by stirring in cream, cooked chicken, and gnocchi until tender. The final step is adding spinach for a quick wilt. If you cook often with chicken, this technique will feel familiar and quick. For other simple chicken cooking ideas, see this easy chicken yakitori recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups celery, diced
• 2 cups carrots, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the Italian seasoning and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the soup to a boil.
3. Lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, and gnocchi. Simmer about 5 minutes, until the gnocchi is tender.
4. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve the soup warm.

How to serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serve this soup hot in deep bowls. Add grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if you like. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad also balances the richness. This soup fits lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack between meals. For a picnic or potluck, bring bread on the side so the soup stays creamy and not soggy.

 

Best occasions to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Make it on chilly weeknights when you want comfort fast. It works well for family dinners and casual gatherings. Use it for meal prep; it reheats nicely for lunches. Serve it when friends drop by for a small, warm meal. For a Mexican-themed night, offer it alongside chicken enchiladas as a second option.

How to store Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Let the soup cool slightly before storing. Keep it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gnocchi can soften over time, so store in portions for best texture. To freeze, use a freezer-safe container and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can you make Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time

You can prep parts ahead. Chop the vegetables and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately to keep textures fresh. After cooking, refrigerate the soup and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens when reheating.

Tips to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Use cooked chicken from a roast or a rotisserie for fast prep.
• Do not overcook the gnocchi; it becomes too soft. Remove from heat as soon as gnocchi are tender.
• Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper.
• For a lighter version, swap half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Keep spinach additions last so they stay bright and fresh.

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Variation

• Swap potato gnocchi for small pasta like shells or ditalini.
• Use turkey instead of chicken for a holiday twist.
• Add mushrooms for an earthy note.
• Make it dairy-free with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
• Try a sandwich side like chicken pesto caprese sandwiches for a different meal style.

FAQs

Q: Can I use raw chicken in this soup?

A: Yes. If you use raw chicken, cut it into small pieces and cook it in the pot until no longer pink before adding cream and gnocchi.

Q: How long does Chicken Gnocchi Soup keep in the fridge?

A: Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove until hot.

Q: Can I freeze the soup with gnocchi?

A: You can freeze it, but gnocchi may soften after thawing. For best texture, freeze the soup without gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.