Looking for the perfect comfort food to warm you up? This easy chicken gnocchi soup is creamy and packed with flavor. Inspired by the Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup, this homemade version is even better, made with fresh gnocchi, tender chicken, and a creamy broth. It’s super easy to make in just 30 minutes!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie works great
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup eavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package 16 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft (about 5 minutes).
Make the Broth
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Add Chicken and Gnocchi
- Stir in the shredded chicken and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the potato gnocchi and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they float to the top.
Finish with Spinach and Parmesan
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the fresh spinach.
- Add Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir it into the soup.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option: Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for heavy cream and milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- For a gluten-free version: Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your broth is gluten-free.
- If the soup thickens too much: Add a little extra broth or milk while reheating.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a game-changer. Not only does it cut down on prep work, but it also adds a rich, savory flavor to the soup. Simply shred the meat and toss it in—no extra cooking required! However, if you prefer to cook your own chicken, chicken breasts or thighs work well. Just cook them in advance, shred them, and they’ll be ready to go when you need them.
Adjust the Thickness to Your Liking
Everyone has a different preference when it comes to soup consistency. If you love a thicker, heartier texture, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a minute, and you’ll notice the broth thickening up beautifully. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more brothy soup, simply add a little extra chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi
Gnocchi is incredibly quick to cook, so keep an eye on it! The key is to add the gnocchi toward the end of cooking and watch for them to float to the top—that’s how you know they’re done. If left in the soup for too long, they can become mushy, soaking up too much liquid and losing their soft, pillowy texture. To keep them light and fluffy, serve the soup as soon as they’re cooked.
Add More Flavor with Fresh Herbs
A simple way to elevate your soup is by adding fresh herbs just before serving. A sprinkle of basil, thyme, or parsley adds a burst of freshness and enhances the flavors in every bite. If you love a more robust herb taste, you can also stir some into the broth while it simmers. Fresh herbs not only improve the taste and aroma of the soup but also add a beautiful touch of color to your bowl.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Best Bread Pairings
What’s better than dipping warm, crusty bread into a bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup? To make your meal even more satisfying, serve it with garlic bread, homemade focaccia, or a classic baguette. The crispy exterior and soft interior of these breads perfectly complement the rich, velvety soup, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes to Serve with Gnocchi Soup
While this soup is already a filling dish on its own, pairing it with a light and refreshing side can create a more balanced meal. A Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce and a tangy dressing adds a nice contrast to the creaminess of the soup. If you prefer something warm, try roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. For a fresh and vibrant option, a Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pairs beautifully with the flavors in the soup.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries—this soup keeps well! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
- Reheat: Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid boiling, as this can overcook the gnocchi and make them too soft.
This easy chicken gnocchi soup is just as good the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch and enjoy it all week!
FAQs
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream and milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Can I freeze chicken gnocchi soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh because dairy-based soups can separate when frozen. If you must freeze it, leave out the cream and add it after reheating.
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a special touch, but store-bought gnocchi works well too.
What proteins can I use instead of chicken?
Try turkey, sausage, or even tofu for a different twist on this comforting dish.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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Yummy😋