Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: Silky broth with a velvety texture.
Tender Gnocchi: Soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings.
Protein-Packed: Generous chunks of chicken.
Vegetable-Loaded: Includes carrots, spinach, and celery for nutrition.
Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in chicken broth, then add shredded chicken and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
Cook Gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface.
Add Cream and Spinach: Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit chicken or substitute with tofu.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone for extra cheesiness.
Herb Variations: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of dried thyme.
Low-Fat: Substitute cream with milk or use half the amount.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: Not recommended due to cream and gnocchi texture changes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, add frozen gnocchi directly to the soup and adjust cooking time slightly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but add cream and spinach just before serving for best texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Check gnocchi ingredients; use gluten-free gnocchi if needed.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, shredded rotisserie chicken works great.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, peas, or zucchini are good additions.

How do I thicken the soup?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water and cook until thickened.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream alternatives.

What is the best way to reheat?

Slowly on the stovetop to prevent curdling.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended due to cream and gnocchi.

How do I store leftovers?

In airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make soup that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy meals, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.