Name: 30-minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

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There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chicken gnocchi soup on a chilly evening. Creamy, hearty, and brimming with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this recipe is a hug in a bowl.

I first discovered this dish during a visit to a cozy Italian restaurant and couldn’t resist recreating it at home. What I didn’t expect was just how easy it would be to whip up! Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup comes together in under 30 minutes and is sure to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite comfort food! This Chicken Gnocchi Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s a lifesaver when you need something quick, easy, and satisfying.

First and foremost, the speed is unbeatable. With a prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those evenings when you’re juggling a million things and need dinner on the table fast.

It’s also a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your evening. Everything—from sautéing the veggies to simmering the gnocchi—happens in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Let’s not forget about its universal appeal. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or discerning foodies, the creamy base and mix of textures will have everyone coming back for seconds.

And finally, this soup is highly customizable. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring out the best in this creamy, comforting soup.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Alternatively, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even faster prep time.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi keeps this recipe quick and easy, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi will take it to the next level.
Vegetables: A mix of carrots, celery, and spinach adds a vibrant, wholesome touch to the creamy base. Feel free to swap or add veggies like kale or peas for variety.
Cream: Heavy cream creates a luxuriously creamy broth. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the soup may not be as rich.
Chicken broth: The backbone of the soup’s flavor. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level.
Herbs and seasoning: Fresh thyme, garlic, and a pinch of nutmeg bring depth and warmth to the dish.

Special equipment: A large soup pot or Dutch oven is essential for this recipe to ensure even cooking and enough space for all the ingredients.

How to Make This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crafting this comforting dish is surprisingly simple. Let’s walk through it step by step!

Sauté the aromatics: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and thinly sliced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Cook the chicken: Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Build the base: Sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour and stir to coat the chicken and vegetables. This helps thicken the soup. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to ensure a smooth consistency.
Simmer and add gnocchi: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the gnocchi and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top, signaling they’re done.
Finish with cream and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt and the soup to heat through. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

From start to finish, this soup is ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this soup is how well it keeps! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The gnocchi may absorb some liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezer: While the soup can be frozen, the gnocchi may become slightly mushy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup base without the gnocchi and add them fresh when reheating.
Reheating: Gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for white beans or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Low-carb version: Replace the gnocchi with cauliflower florets for a lighter take on this creamy soup.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb swap: Basil or parsley can be used instead of thyme for a fresh twist.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this soup your own!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a recipe worth repeating. With its quick prep, simple ingredients, and comforting flavors, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!