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

There's something about a warm bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. With its creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and perfectly cooked chicken, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Even better, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate quick-fix dinner for busy nights.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but didn't have hours to spend in the kitchen. Since then, it's become a go-to for family dinners, especially when we crave something filling and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Prepare to fall head over heels for this Chicken Gnocchi Soup – it’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof.

First, you’ll love how easy it is to make. The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients and takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for weeknights when time is at a premium!

Second, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. With juicy chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s both satisfying and delicious. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and dinner is done.

Another reason to adore this recipe? It’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to sneak in extra veggies or swap in rotisserie chicken for convenience, this soup works beautifully with whatever you have on hand.

Finally, it’s guaranteed to please even picky eaters. The comforting flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite with kids and adults alike.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:

Chicken – I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They cook quickly and shred beautifully into the creamy soup. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut.

Gnocchi – These tender potato dumplings are the heart of the dish. You’ll find them in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores, but homemade gnocchi can take this soup to the next level.

Vegetables – A mix of onion, celery, and carrots forms the classic mirepoix base, adding depth and sweetness. Don’t forget the fresh spinach, which adds a burst of color and nutrients.

Cream and Broth – The rich base of this soup combines heavy cream with chicken broth, creating a luscious, velvety texture. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk.

Herbs and Seasoning – A combination of garlic, thyme, and parsley enhances the soup’s flavor, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat.

For equipment, you’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a sharp knife, and a cutting board. Let’s put it all together!

How to Make This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Build the Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot. Stir in the gnocchi, letting it cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Add the Cream and Spinach
Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream, along with a handful of fresh spinach leaves. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, restaurant-quality soup ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

This soup is as practical as it is delicious, storing beautifully for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

Freeze – For longer storage, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, hold off on adding the gnocchi and cream until reheating to maintain the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to customize your bowl:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute cauliflower florets for gnocchi to make a lighter, keto-friendly soup.
Add More Veggies: Try stirring in diced zucchini, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.

No matter how you tweak it, this soup is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

There you have it – a comforting, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe that’s as quick as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.