Warm up with this creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Perfectly seasoned with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Ready in under an hour.

1. Introduction

As the weather turns colder, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to warm you from the inside out. This creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect recipe for those cozy nights when all you want is a comforting meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Originating from Italian cuisine, gnocchi are soft, pillowy dumplings that pair beautifully with tender chicken and a rich, velvety broth. This soup is a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, vegetables, and the delightful texture of gnocchi. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or the main course, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that brings together the best of creamy soup and Italian dumplings in one delicious bowl.

2. Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 pound gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, and stir in the dried thyme and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Gnocchi and Cream: Stir in the gnocchi, heavy cream, and milk. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
6. Finish with Spinach and Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, followed by the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

4. How to Prepare

Preparation begins by gathering all the ingredients and ensuring everything is chopped and ready to go. Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot, where you’ll brown the chicken until it’s perfectly cooked. Once the chicken is done, it’s time to sauté the aromatic vegetables, which lay the flavorful foundation for the soup. With the broth added, the soup takes on a rich depth of flavor as it simmers, absorbing the essence of the thyme and basil. The final touch is adding the gnocchi, cream, and milk, transforming the broth into a creamy delight. Finally, the fresh spinach and cooked chicken are stirred in, bringing the soup to its full, hearty potential.

5. Preparation Time

• Active Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

6. Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.

7. FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe? Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this soup and saves time in the kitchen.

Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup will be less creamy.

Q3: How can I make this soup gluten-free? Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure that the chicken broth you use is gluten-free.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Q5: How long can I store the leftovers? Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

8. Conclusion

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience in every spoonful. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi make it a dish that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. Its simplicity in preparation and the warmth it brings make it perfect for cold nights or whenever you crave something nourishing and hearty. This recipe is versatile, allowing for adjustments based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Once you try it, this soup is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy it fresh, and savor the cozy comfort that only a homemade soup can provide.