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 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste; 16 oz gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

There's nothing quite like the warm, creamy comfort of Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. With its hearty chunks of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a frantic dinner scramble one evening, trying to replicate my favorite restaurant version. To my surprise, it turned out even better! Now, it’s a staple in our meal rotation, and I love that it’s easy, satisfying, and family-friendly.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Get ready to add this Chicken Gnocchi Soup to your list of go-to recipes. It’s everything you want in a comforting dinner, all in one bowl.

First, let’s talk about how quick and simple this recipe is. 30 minutes is all you need to transform a handful of everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is foolproof.

You’ll also love how it combines rich, creamy flavors with a hint of freshness from spinach and herbs. The soft, fluffy gnocchi soak up the broth perfectly, creating a velvety texture in every bite.

Finally, it’s a one-pot meal that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction. From the tender chicken to the filling gnocchi, this soup is as hearty as it is delicious – no sides required.

Ingredients Notes

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

The star of the dish is, of course, the gnocchi. These soft, potato-based dumplings are the ultimate comfort food. You can find them in the pasta aisle at most grocery stores. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi works beautifully too!

For the chicken, I recommend using cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s flavorful, tender, and saves time. Alternatively, you can sauté diced chicken breasts or thighs directly in the pot before starting the soup.

The creamy base comes from a blend of heavy cream and chicken broth. This combination creates a rich, luscious broth without feeling overly heavy. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Fresh baby spinach adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard work just as well.

Finally, don’t forget the aromatics! Onion, garlic, and celery build the flavor base, while a sprinkle of thyme and parsley ties everything together with an herby kick.

You’ll also need a large pot or Dutch oven to prepare this one-pot wonder.

How To Make This Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the soup.

Next, stir in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to dissolve any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Once simmering, add the gnocchi and shredded chicken. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi floats to the surface and becomes tender.

Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Let everything simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes to marry the flavors.

Finally, toss in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until wilted. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

From start to finish, this entire process takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for even the busiest days.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (a big "if" with this soup!), storing them is a breeze. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezer: Gnocchi doesn’t freeze well, as it can become mushy when reheated. If you want to freeze this soup, cook it without the gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.

Variations and Substitutions

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

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey or Italian sausage for a different twist.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or cannellini beans for protein.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding diced carrots, zucchini, or peas.
Herbs: Experiment with rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile.

This soup is endlessly customizable, so don’t hesitate to get creative and use what you have on hand.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, grab your favorite pot and get cooking! This 30-minute Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or impressing guests with a homemade touch, this soup delivers every time.