If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, there’s nothing quite like Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This rich and hearty classic brings together tender chicken, fluffy potato gnocchi, colorful vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth. Perfect for warming up weeknights or satisfying a hungry crowd, this soup is a beloved staple in my kitchen—whether I’m cozying up solo or serving a big family meal, it always hits the spot. Plus, it’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Let’s dive in!

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Gnocchi Soup comes together beautifully with a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a special role, lending flavor, body, or that pop of color to make the soup both hearty and vibrant.

Olive oil or butter: The rich start to any soup, adding depth and a silky mouthfeel as you sauté the veggies.
Onion: Brings a sweet and mellow base flavor—diced small so it melds perfectly into the broth.
Garlic cloves: A couple of cloves wake up the soup with their gentle zing and warmth.
Carrots: Diced for even cooking, these add natural sweetness and bursts of orange color.
Celery stalks: Essential for earthy depth and classic soup flavor—be sure to chop them small for the best texture.
Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders here for convenience and ultra-tender bites.
Chicken broth: The savory backbone of the soup, bringing everything together; use a good-quality broth for best results.
Dried thyme (or fresh): Adds an herbaceous layer that pairs perfectly with both chicken and cream.
Italian seasoning: A squeeze of Mediterranean flavor that makes each spoonful sing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors—season to taste.
Potato gnocchi: The star of the show! These soft, pillowy dumplings turn a simple soup into a filling meal.
Spinach leaves: Fresh spinach stirs in at the end, giving a lovely pop of green and extra nutrition.
Heavy cream (or half-and-half): For a silky, indulgent finish. Use half-and-half for a lighter but still delicious bowl.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, savory punch—totally luxurious if you want that creamy richness.

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes. You’ll know the veggies are ready when they’re softened and your kitchen is filled with that irresistible sweet-savory scent!

Step 2: Build the Flavor with Chicken and Broth

Next, stir in your cooked shredded chicken, pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the dried thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer; this stage is where all those flavors start coming together to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup so comforting and layered.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your soup base is simmering, add the potato gnocchi. These will only need 3 to 4 minutes—just until they float to the top, signaling they’re perfectly cooked, tender, and ready to soak up all the broth’s flavors.

Step 4: Add Greens

Stir in those gorgeous fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt in the hot soup, which just takes a minute or two. They’ll give your Chicken Gnocchi Soup a vibrant color and a boost of nutrition. Feel free to swap in kale if you’re after a heartier green.

Step 5: Finish Creamy and Delicious

Turn the heat down low and gently stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and a handful of grated Parmesan if you like things extra silky and savory. Be careful not to let the soup come to a boil—just warm everything through until perfectly combined. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot!

How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle bowls of Chicken Gnocchi Soup with extra grated Parmesan, a swirl of cream, and a crack of fresh black pepper. A handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and fresh aroma that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This creamy soup is filling on its own but is absolutely divine alongside a crusty loaf of bread for dunking. Try it with buttery garlic toast, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or even a crisp focaccia if you’re feeling fancy. A little bread basket turns this meal into a feast!

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive touch, ladle Chicken Gnocchi Soup into wide, shallow bowls and top with a Parmesan tuile or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. Or, serve it in rustic mugs for a cozy, casual gathering—perfect for passing around a fireside or enjoying at a soup-and-sandwich lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Gnocchi Soup holds up wonderfully in the fridge. Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and meld overnight, making leftovers extra delicious!

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but for best texture, consider leaving out the gnocchi and spinach—their texture can change after thawing. Freeze just the broth, chicken, and veggies, then add fresh gnocchi and spinach when you reheat. Use a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water as needed. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating and the gnocchi from becoming overly soft.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi for Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds an extra pillowy, tender texture. If you have a favorite recipe, use it—or keep things simple by picking up a good-quality store-bought version.

Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap in a gluten-free potato gnocchi and double-check any broth or seasoning mixes for hidden gluten. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Kale, chopped Swiss chard, or even baby arugula are great substitutes. Kale gives a more robust and hearty bite, while chard adds a subtle sweetness.

Can I make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup without cream?

Yes! Use half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut milk for a dairy-free take. The soup still tastes rich and satisfying, just a little less indulgent.

How do I thicken or thin the soup to my liking?

If you love a thicker soup, try mashing a few gnocchi into the broth. Need it thinner? Just add a splash of extra broth or water until it’s the consistency you crave.

Final Thoughts

Few bowls deliver quite the same warmth and satisfaction as Chicken Gnocchi Soup. If you’re ready for a creamy, hearty meal that’s both simple and spectacular, this recipe is truly a keeper. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to some homemade comfort tonight!