Chicken and Gnocchi Soup: A Creamy Comfort Dish You’ll Crave

There’s something so heartwarming about a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. When that soup is rich, creamy, and brimming with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, it becomes more than a meal—it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Chicken and gnocchi soup is the perfect combination of hearty and wholesome, offering flavors that make every spoonful irresistible.

Why Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Is So Beloved

Chicken and gnocchi soup isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or the main event, this dish brings comfort and joy to every table. With its creamy base, bursts of freshness from spinach, and the tender texture of gnocchi, it’s a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

Ingredients for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting classic:

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Small onion (diced)	1
Celery stalks (diced)	3
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Carrots (shredded)	2
Cooked chicken breast (cubed)	1 pound
Chicken broth	4 cups
Mini potato gnocchi	16 oz package
Baby spinach leaves	6 oz bag
Cornstarch (optional)	1 tablespoon
Cold water (optional)	2 tablespoons
Half-and-half cream	2 cups
Salt	To taste
Ground black pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather and prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. Dice the onion and celery, mince the garlic, shred the carrots, and cube the cooked chicken.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

3. Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the cooked, cubed chicken breast and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Cook the Gnocchi

Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Let them cook in the simmering broth for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they float to the top—this is how you know they’re done.

5. Add the Spinach

Stir in the baby spinach leaves and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.

6. Thicken the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch into 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the pot.

7. Add the Cream

Pour in the half-and-half cream, stirring gently. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.

8. Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and ground black pepper to your liking. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken broth elevate the flavor of this soup.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the half-and-half for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts.
• Don’t Skip the Spinach: The spinach adds a fresh, nutritious element that balances the creamy base.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	7g
Sodium	650mg
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g

This soup is a hearty and satisfying option that balances indulgence with nutrition.

Why Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a go-to recipe for a variety of settings:

• Family Dinners: A comforting dish everyone will love.
• Date Night: Serve it with crusty bread and a side salad for an elegant meal.
• Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or busy weeknights.
• Potlucks: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Creamy Mushroom and Gnocchi Soup

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist on the classic recipe.

2. Spicy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

3. Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly meal.

4. Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup

Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs About Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze chicken and gnocchi soup?
You can freeze the soup, but the texture of the gnocchi and cream may change slightly. Freeze without the cream and add it after reheating for the best results.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?
Use the cornstarch slurry method outlined in the recipe, or stir in a few spoonfuls of instant mashed potato flakes for an easy thickener.

5. What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a side salad for a complete meal.

6. Can I use another type of pasta instead of gnocchi?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like orecchiette, ditalini, or even tortellini work well as substitutes.

Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor

Chicken and gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your taste, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering. With its tender chicken, hearty gnocchi, and fresh spinach, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level.

So grab your ingredients, warm up your pot, and treat yourself to a bowl of homemade goodness. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

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