Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a beloved comfort food classic that brings together the heartiness of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy broth.
Rooted in Italian cuisine and popularized in kitchens around the world, this satisfying soup provides warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. The term 'gnocchi' refers to small, soft dough dumplings that have been a staple in Italian households for centuries.
Traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, gnocchi adds a delightful texture to soups and stews. Over time, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup rose to prominence in North American households, often served in cozy restaurants and family gatherings.
Today, it remains a versatile and cherished dish that can be adapted with different vegetables, seasonings, or even dietary preferences.
Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner, a homemade lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and a creamy finish that satisfies both heart and palate.
As more home cooks seek out comforting, flavorful meals that can be prepared with pantry staples, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup stands out as a must-try recipe. Make this creamy, soul-warming soup your new family favorite and enjoy a taste of traditional comfort any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried basil. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream), followed by the gnocchi. Cook according to gnocchi package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, or until gnocchi float to the top.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until spinach is wilted and the soup reaches your desired consistency.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup strikes an ideal balance between comfort and nutrition. Each serving typically contains around 350 to 400 calories, making it a hearty yet reasonable choice for a main course, especially when paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
The combination of lean chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while the addition of spinach boosts the dish's content of vitamins K and A, iron, and antioxidants. The carrots and celery add valuable fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting a well-rounded diet.
While the creamy base and gnocchi contribute carbohydrates and a touch of indulgence, you can control the richness by choosing half-and-half over heavy cream or by incorporating whole milk. For those monitoring sodium intake, opting for low-sodium chicken broth and moderating added salt can help reduce the overall sodium content.
If you're looking to boost the soup's fiber further, consider using whole-wheat gnocchi or adding extra vegetables such as peas or kale.
Although Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a creamy and comforting dish, it remains a balanced option that can fit well into a healthy meal plan, especially when portioned appropriately and complemented with lighter sides.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay, whose bright acidity balances the richness of the soup. For those who prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works well without overpowering the flavors.
Sparkling water with a lemon wedge or an Italian soda can refresh the palate, making them excellent non-alcoholic choices. For a cozy evening, try serving the soup with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, which complements the soup’s creamy texture and subtle herbs.
For a more complete meal, house-made lemonade or a light pilsner beer also pairs deliciously.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For the creamiest Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, use heavy cream, but for a lighter feel, substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk. Stirring in a tablespoon of flour to the sautéed vegetables before adding broth can create a thicker soup base.
Homemade gnocchi can elevate the dish’s texture and flavor, but high-quality store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully for convenience. Swap in shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal, or use leftover cooked chicken.
Adding more vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or zucchini can increase nutritional value and bulk up the soup for an even more satisfying meal. For extra depth of flavor, sauté the vegetables in a mix of butter and olive oil, or sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg along with the cream.
A handful of kale or Swiss chard makes a delicious substitute for spinach. To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure your gnocchi is gluten-free, which is increasingly available in stores. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, though the gnocchi may absorb more liquid over time—just add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore soupiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken and Gnocchi Soup steaming hot, straight from the stove, to fully appreciate its aroma and creamy texture. Present the soup in deep bowls to allow all the gnocchi, chicken, and vegetables to nestle harmoniously.
Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan to enhance the visual appeal and flavor. Accompany the soup with slices of toasted rustic bread or a warm baguette for soaking up the luscious broth.
This soup can be served as a satisfying main course on chilly nights or as an elegant starter at dinner parties. For a well-balanced meal, consider pairing the soup with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
To make the meal more inviting and interactive, serve with small bowls of additional toppings, such as crisp bacon bits, chopped scallions, or a drizzle of herbed olive oil, so everyone can customize their bowl. Don’t forget to keep extra black pepper and cheese at the table.
Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or enjoying a quiet meal solo, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup brings warmth to any table and turns an ordinary dinner into a comforting dining experience.
Health Benefits
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup offers several health benefits, primarily thanks to its combination of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and nutrient-dense greens. Chicken breast or thighs provide essential amino acids without excess saturated fat, helping to keep you full and sustain energy throughout the day.
Spinach is packed with antioxidants, iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K, all of which contribute to bone health, immune support, and better heart function. Carrots and celery add dietary fiber, supporting digestion and gut health, as well as an array of vitamins and minerals like potassium and vitamin C.
While the gnocchi and creamy base contribute carbohydrates and fats, these components make the soup satisfying and comforting. With reasonable portion sizes and mindful ingredient selection—such as low-sodium broth and lighter cream options—the soup can be a wholesome option for most diets.
Making the recipe at home also allows you to control additives and salt, making it a better alternative to store-bought soups. For those with dietary restrictions, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free by selecting appropriate substitutes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this nourishing classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup can be prepared in advance. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store the gnocchi separately and add them when reheating.
While you can freeze the soup base, it's best to add gnocchi and spinach after reheating, as gnocchi can become mushy when frozen and thawed.
Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, widely available in many supermarkets, and double-check all other ingredients such as chicken broth for gluten-free certification.
Great additions include mushrooms, peas, zucchini, corn, or kale to give the soup extra flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Yes, substitute the cream with coconut milk, oat milk, or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup stands as a testament to the power of comforting, home-cooked meals. Whether you’re seeking a dish to warm you on a chilly day or searching for a hearty option to delight your family and friends, this classic recipe promises a creamy, flavorful experience packed with wholesome ingredients. With customizable variations, healthful benefits, and options for different dietary needs, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a versatile addition to any meal repertoire. Let this delicious soup become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen, offering both nourishment and joy in every bowl. Prepare it today and savor the timeless combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a velvety, satisfying broth.
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