Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and quick to whip up, this Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant veggies all simmered in a rich broth, this soup delivers warmth and flavor in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights or last-minute dinners.
• Creamy Comfort: The rich broth and soft gnocchi create a soothing texture that feels indulgent yet light.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a balanced meal that fuels your body.
• Family Favorite: Mild flavors and hearty ingredients make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite herbs, spices, or substitute ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup are simple but essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component adds a unique touch – from creamy broth to tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, making this dish irresistible.

• Boneless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, they provide the hearty protein base for the soup.
• Potato Gnocchi: Soft and chewy, these little dumplings soak up the flavors beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: The savory liquid foundation that makes the soup comforting and rich.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Adds silkiness and smooth texture to the broth.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that give the soup depth and flavor complexity.
• Carrots and Celery: Colorful, crunchy vegetables that add freshness and texture.
• Baby Spinach: A nutrient boost and bright green color to lighten the dish.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the veggies and building flavor at the start.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• Dried Herbs (Thyme or Italian Seasoning): Adds aromatic herbal notes without extra effort.

Variations for Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it a great base for customizing flavors, dietary choices, or ingredient swaps. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for cannellini beans or mushrooms for a meat-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in zucchini, bell peppers, or peas for more color and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Try fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary instead of dried thyme for different herbal aromas.

How to Make Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This base builds the foundation of your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook until the chicken is mostly cooked through and starting to brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors and finish cooking the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add potato gnocchi directly to the simmering soup. They will float to the top once cooked, which takes about 3-5 minutes. This step adds soft, chewy texture to the hearty soup.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Lower the heat, then slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half for a luscious, creamy broth. Add fresh baby spinach and cook just until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Use Fresh Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi cooks faster and has a better texture than frozen varieties.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: They only need a few minutes in the hot broth; overcooking can make them mushy.
• Shred the Chicken: For a more uniform texture, shred the chicken instead of cubing it before adding back to the soup.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low once you add the cream to prevent curdling.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or water to reach your preferred texture.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic knots, or a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or colorful ceramic mugs to make mealtime feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the soup separate from any garnishes to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. However, gnocchi’s texture may change slightly after freezing; consider adding fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this soup?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well; just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they’re tender throughout.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños while sautéing the aromatics for a spicy kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be added towards the end of cooking, which helps speed up the meal preparation.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a bowl of Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, especially when it comes together quickly on a busy night. Its creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi create comfort in every spoonful. I promise this recipe will become your go-to for warm, effortless dinners you and your family will look forward to. Give it a try tonight and discover how simple homemade comfort food can be!

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