If you’re craving something comforting, creamy, and downright delicious, this Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is here to brighten your day. It’s a soul-satisfying blend of tender shredded chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh veggies, and a rich, savory broth that comes together surprisingly quickly. Whether you’re new to homemade soups or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers flavor and warmth in every spoonful, perfectly suited for any day you need a little extra comfort on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From sautéed vegetables to creamy broth and tender chicken, every component works together like a dream.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps sauté the veggies.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Brings richness and helps develop a silky base for the soup.
- Onion, chopped (1/2 medium): Provides a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Celery, chopped (2 sticks): Offers a fresh, slightly bitter crunch to balance creaminess.
- Carrots, sliced or chopped (3 medium): Give a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses mouthwatering aroma and a savory kick.
- Cremini mushrooms, sliced (7 ounces): Add earthiness and meaty texture.
- Chicken broth or stock (4 cups): The flavorful foundation of the soup’s base.
- Water (1 cup): Adjusts consistency without diluting taste.
- Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): Brings herbal brightness to tie the flavors together.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Conveniently shredded for tender protein, rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
- Potato gnocchi (1 pound): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the savory broth beautifully.
- Heavy/whipping cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and richness.
- Fresh baby spinach (2 cups, packed): Provides vibrant green color and a mild, fresh flavor.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to balance and enhance every bite.
How to Make Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. This combination of fats ensures your veggies cook evenly and develop a rich flavor base.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for about 8 to 10 minutes with a slightly ajar lid, stirring occasionally. This softens the vegetables and creates a naturally sweet and savory base for your soup.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Mushrooms
Stir in minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook for a few minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and the garlic becomes fragrant, sending an irresistible aroma through your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Broth, Seasoning, Chicken, and Gnocchi
Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by Italian seasoning, cooked chicken, and gnocchi. Bring everything to a boil over high heat — this step ensures the gnocchi cooks perfectly without getting soggy.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the gnocchi to become tender and fluffy inside.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach
Finally, add the heavy cream and fresh baby spinach. Cook just a few more minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is warmed through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few torn fresh basil leaves make wonderful, simple garnishes. They add a touch of brightness and extra flavor, making every spoonful even more special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy soup perfectly by adding crispness and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation. For a crowd, use individual ramekins and top with a little extra cheese and herbs before broiling for a bubbly finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling to room temperature, transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick reheats later in the week.
Freezing
Though this soup is best enjoyed fresh to preserve the delicate creaminess and tender spinach, you can freeze it without the heavy cream and spinach added. Freeze the soup in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Add spinach and cream when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in fresh cream and baby spinach towards the end to keep that vibrant, fresh flavor and silky texture. Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I use different types of gnocchi?
Absolutely! While potato gnocchi are classic and tender, you can use sweet potato or gluten-free gnocchi depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
No worries! You can cook raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth early on, then shred them before adding the gnocchi. This adds even more flavor to the soup base.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with hearty veggies or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the chicken but keep the rest of the recipe the same for a cozy vegetarian experience.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter alternative and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. This maintains creaminess while catering to dietary needs.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy but not too thick—almost like a chowder. The gnocchi absorb some liquid as they cook, so if it looks too thick, simply add a splash more broth or water.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend this Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe enough—it’s a total hug in a bowl and perfect for cozy evenings or whenever you need a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace. Give it a try, and you might find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine. Happy cooking!
