Name: 30-minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried parsley; 16 oz potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste

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There’s nothing quite like the warm, creamy comfort of homemade chicken gnocchi soup on a chilly evening. Packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Best of all, this one-pot wonder comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

I first fell in love with this soup during a trip to Italy, where gnocchi was a menu staple. Back home, I combined my favorite flavors into a quick, family-friendly recipe that’s now a household favorite. Let’s dive in and make this delicious soup together!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to embrace a recipe that’s as comforting as it is convenient. This chicken gnocchi soup checks all the boxes for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

First, it’s quick and simple. In just half an hour, you can have a hearty, homemade soup on the table. The recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.

Second, the flavors are restaurant-quality. The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy gnocchi creates a luxurious taste that will make your family think you’ve been simmering it all day.

Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to clean. You’ll love how effortlessly this soup fits into a busy schedule.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or experimenting with new ingredients, this recipe adapts beautifully to substitutions and additions.

Ready to make the ultimate cozy soup? Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup comes from its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each plays a vital role in creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings add a comforting, chewy texture. Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can use homemade gnocchi.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking, but chicken thighs will add extra richness. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Vegetables: A mix of diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic forms the aromatic base of the soup. These veggies infuse the broth with flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. You can substitute kale or leave it out if preferred.
Broth and Cream: A combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a creamy, flavorful base. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream.
Seasonings: A blend of Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper enhances the soup’s savory notes.

You’ll also need a large pot and a ladle for serving. Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to start cooking!

How To Make This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this chicken gnocchi soup is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps to create a soul-soothing bowl in no time.

Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken, let it rest, and shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning and add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes.
Add the Gnocchi and Spinach
Gently stir in the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes. Once the gnocchi float to the top, they’re done. Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup warm through but avoid boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor. From start to finish, this soup is a quick and rewarding dish that everyone will adore.

Storage Options

This soup is just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Gnocchi can become mushy when frozen, so if you plan to freeze, consider cooking the gnocchi fresh when reheating. Freeze the soup base without the gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with Italian sausage or even turkey for a new flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for the heavy cream.
Gluten-Free: Many stores carry gluten-free gnocchi, making this soup accessible for gluten-free diets.

Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste. No matter how you customize it, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

With its creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and comforting flavors, this 30-minute chicken gnocchi soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s quick, delicious, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table!