Chicken gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s got soft little potato dumplings called gnocchi, bite-sized pieces of chicken, and veggies all swimming in a creamy broth. You can eat it any time—when it’s cold outside or even on a regular Tuesday after school. Gnocchi comes from Italy, so this soup kinda feels fancy but it’s really easy to make.
Lots of people pick chicken gnocchi soup for its cozy, creamy taste. It reminds you of home-cooked meals that bring everyone to the table. Plus, it’s simple enough that even cooking newbies can pull it off. In this article, we’ll cover what’s in the soup, why it’s good for you, and step-by-step how to cook it. You’ll also find ideas to switch things up so you never get bored. Let’s dig in and make some soup!
What is Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Chicken gnocchi soup is a creamy, hearty dish with pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken bits, and fresh veggies like carrots, spinach, and celery. It uses a rich broth mixed with cream and seasonings so every spoonful feels extra cozy.
The word “gnocchi” comes from Italian where it means “lump.” These dumplings are made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg. Italians have been eating gnocchi for years, and when you add chicken and veggies, you get a filling soup that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you want something warm.
This soup isn’t just food—it’s comfort. The creamy broth wraps around each piece of chicken and vegetable, making you feel warm all over.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup
The best thing about chicken gnocchi soup is the taste. The creamy broth, soft gnocchi, and chicken all work together for a rich, savory flavor. Plus the sweet carrots and garlicky notes add a nice twist.
It’s also a balanced meal. Chicken brings protein, veggies give vitamins and minerals, and gnocchi adds carbs to keep you full. You can swap veggies or use low-fat cream if you want to lighten it up. It’s super flexible so you can make it fit your diet.
Key Ingredients
To make this soup you’ll need:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or shredded rotisserie chicken for a time-saving hack.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought for ease or homemade if you want a fun kitchen project.
- Vegetables: Spinach, carrots, and celery are classic. You can also try mushrooms or peas.
- Broth: Chicken broth for a stronger taste, or veggie broth if you want a lighter spin.
- Cream and seasonings: Heavy cream for richness, or half-and-half if you want less fat. Garlic, thyme, and bay leaves boost the flavor.
Optional Add-ins
If you want to tweak your soup, try these additions:
- Fresh herbs: Parsley or basil added at the end brightens things up.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan or a scoop of ricotta makes it even creamier.
- Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little kick.
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients
Get these items ready:
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil or butter
Directions
- Cook the chicken: Cut chicken into cubes. Season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a big pot over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes until no pink remains. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté veggies: In the same pot add a bit more oil. Cook garlic, carrots, and celery for 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Add broth: Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer so flavors mix together.
- Drop in gnocchi: Add gnocchi and cook 2–3 minutes (they float when done).
- Stir in cream and spinach: Lower heat. Pour in heavy cream, then toss in spinach. Heat 2–3 more minutes until spinach wilts.
- Season to taste: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if you want. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips
Don’t overcook the gnocchi or they turn mushy. For meal prep, cool soup first, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove with a little extra broth so it’s not too thick.
Variations on Chicken Gnocchi Soup
You can change this soup lots of ways:
- Italian style: Stir in a spoonful of pesto or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Vegetarian/vegan: Use white beans instead of chicken and coconut milk in place of cream.
- Different spices: Try cumin or curry powder for a new flavor twist.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Serving Suggestions
Make your meal even better by serving:
- Crusty bread: A baguette or garlic toast for dipping.
- Simple salad: A green salad with vinaigrette to cut the creaminess.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a little grated cheese for a nice touch.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Leftovers go in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days or in the freezer up to 2 months. To reheat, warm on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick. Avoid the microwave if you can to keep the gnocchi’s texture.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough idea per serving:
- Calories: 400–500
- Protein: 30–35 g
- Fats: 15–20 g
- Carbs: 40–45 g
This soup brings protein, healthy fats, and carbs for energy, plus vitamins from the veggies.
FAQs About Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Can I use frozen gnocchi? Yes! Add them straight to the soup without thawing, and cook as directed.
- Can I freeze this soup? Sure, but the gnocchi might get a bit softer after freezing.
- How to make it healthier? Use low-fat cream, extra veggies, or swap chicken for beans.
- Slow cooker? You bet—cook on low 4–6 hours, then stir in spinach and cream at the end.
Conclusion
Chicken gnocchi soup is a go-to comfort meal that’s creamy, filling, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this soup hits the spot every time. Try different add-ins and share your own twist—it’s hard to go wrong with a bowl of warm, creamy goodness!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 cutting board
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 ladle
- 6 soup bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded Can substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken.
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. If you want a thicker soup, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pot.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through.
- Add the fresh spinach and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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