Brothy, creamy, vegetarian or a meaty stew; we love it all. Today’s soup is one of our favorites. We’ve played with variations of this recipe over the years, but keep coming back to this exact creamy chicken gnocchi soup recipe time and time again. Eat it on its own, or pair it with a side of biscuits or dinner rolls for a truly satisfying meal. 

Chicken gnocchi soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that brings together the heartiness of chicken, the comfort of gnocchi, and the nourishment of fresh vegetables. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the ability to bring a warm, homemade meal to your family’s dinner table with ease. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy broth, flavored with herbs like thyme and oregano, creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family meal.

A bowl of chicken gnocchi soup.

30 Minute Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, hearty, and so savory on a cold day. It is a family favorite dinner that comes together in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions

  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and healthy, but boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. For a quicker option, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Gnocchi: Pillowy and comforting, store-bought saves time, but homemade can be used.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Spinach: Fresh for a bright color and taste, but frozen (thawed and drained) works in a pinch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find gnocchi in the grocery store?

Gnocchi is typically located in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores. You may find it either in dry, vacuum-packed forms or as a refrigerated product near fresh pastas and sauces.

What are the different types of store-bought gnocchi available?

There are several types of store-bought gnocchi, including traditional potato gnocchi, whole wheat for a healthier option, and gluten-free made from alternative flours. Some stores also carry flavored varieties, like spinach or pumpkin gnocchi.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this soup?

Yes, frozen gnocchi is a suitable alternative. There’s no need to thaw it before cooking; you can add it directly to the soup, just be aware it might extend the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this soup with homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! If you have the time and inclination, homemade gnocchi can elevate the dish. Just follow your favorite gnocchi recipe.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

A cornstarch slurry, a bit more gnocchi, or even a mashed potato can help thicken the soup without altering the flavor too much.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance. Just reheat it on the stove or in a microwave, adding a bit of broth if it has thickened too much in the fridge.

A ladle full of chicken gnocchi soup.

Variations

There are quite a few variations you can play with in this recipe. You can try this recipe with either gnocchi or tortellini. They are both delicious! You could even replace the chicken with a hot (or mild) Italian sausage, and add more or less veggies to suit your own personal taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

Store any leftovers of this soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Cream based soups do not always freeze well. You can do it, and it should stay good for a few months, but expect the consistency to be a bit different due to the separating that will occur. Allow to thaw completely in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat by the bowlful in the microwave in 30 second increments until warmed through, approximately 90 seconds-2 minutes. If you want to reheat a large amount at once, it is faster to reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat in a saucepan until warmed through.

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