If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy, and soul-satisfying meal, look no further than this Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. This classic soup combines soft potato gnocchi, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful creamy broth for a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant — yet it’s simple enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup is a fan favorite for good reason. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is:

  • Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour.

  • Rich and filling – Creamy texture with gnocchi and chicken makes it a hearty meal.

  • Customizable – Great for adding your favorite veggies or using leftovers.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect bowl of chicken gnocchi soup.

Ingredients for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Gather these ingredients before starting your soup:

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

  • 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon thyme

  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • Crushed red pepper flakes for heat

  • Parmesan cheese for garnish

  • Heavy cream for a richer texture

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasoning

Stir in the shredded or cubed chicken along with the thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Drop the gnocchi into the simmering soup. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the gnocchi begin to float, indicating they’re done.

Step 5: Stir in Dairy and Greens

Pour in the half-and-half and stir to combine. Add chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, then remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of pepper.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and cuts prep time. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.

Thicken the Soup

If you prefer a thicker soup, add 1 tablespoon of flour to the sautéed veggies before adding broth or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end.

Add Vegetables

Feel free to add peas, mushrooms, or corn for added texture and flavor. This soup is very versatile.

Make it Dairy-Free

Substitute the half-and-half with unsweetened coconut milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. You can also skip the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pair With:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast

  • Side salad with vinaigrette

  • Grilled cheese sandwich

Toppings:

  • Crumbled bacon for crunch

  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley

  • Chili flakes for a spicy kick

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let cool completely before freezing.

How to Reheat

  • Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently.

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Note: Gnocchi may become softer after reheating. Add fresh gnocchi if needed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 390

  • Protein: 25g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 5g

Variations of Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Bacon

Add cooked bacon bits to the soup or sprinkle on top before serving for a smoky, savory flavor.

Spicy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the soup a gentle heat.

Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup

Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

Slow Cooker Version

Combine all ingredients except dairy and spinach in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in half-and-half and spinach 30 minutes before serving.

Why Gnocchi Works So Well in Soup

Gnocchi, soft Italian dumplings typically made from potatoes, are a perfect addition to soups because:

  • They cook quickly.

  • They soak up flavors without falling apart.

  • They add a rich, chewy texture that’s more satisfying than noodles.

Whether store-bought or homemade, gnocchi elevates this chicken soup from ordinary to restaurant-worthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the gnocchi – They cook fast. Remove from heat as soon as they float.

  • Boiling the dairy – Add cream or milk after removing from high heat to avoid curdling.

  • Not seasoning enough – Taste often and adjust salt and pepper levels.

Also Read : Discover The Secrets Behind Delicious Broasted Chicken

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate cozy dish — rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or spice it up with different seasonings.

Simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious, this soup deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a fresh touch to this soup. Just be gentle when stirring, as they can be more delicate than store-bought.

Q2: Is this soup gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free, then yes, it can be gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. For best texture, consider adding the gnocchi when reheating to keep them from becoming mushy.

Q4: What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a quick and tasty option, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh will work.

Q5: How can I make this soup low-carb?

Replace gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles to lower the carb content.