Name: 30-minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded; 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi; 3 cups chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half); 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

There's nothing more comforting than a bowl of chicken gnocchi soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This creamy, hearty soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of veggies, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed a simple but comforting meal. Since then, it’s become a go-to in our household. The best part? It feels like a restaurant-quality dish, but it’s so easy to make at home. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special.

Why You'll Love This 30-Minute Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite comfort soup. This chicken gnocchi soup delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.

First, it’s incredibly fast to make. In just half an hour, you can have a steaming pot of creamy soup ready to serve. That means less time cooking and more time enjoying a cozy meal with your family.

The creamy base combined with pillowy gnocchi creates a luxurious texture that’s both filling and satisfying. Each bite feels like a warm hug, perfect for those moments when you need a little extra comfort.

This soup is also wonderfully customizable. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra veggies.

Finally, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love. The soft gnocchi and rich, creamy flavor make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this chicken gnocchi soup lies in its simple ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Each one plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the soup.

Gnocchi is the star of the show. These tender potato dumplings cook quickly and absorb the creamy broth, making every bite extra satisfying. You can find pre-packaged gnocchi in most grocery stores for convenience.

Chicken adds protein and depth of flavor. I recommend using cooked, shredded chicken for ease. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here, but leftover roasted chicken is another great option.

Vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach bring freshness and color to the soup. The carrots and celery offer a bit of crunch, while the spinach wilts beautifully into the creamy broth.

Heavy cream and chicken broth create the base of the soup. The combination delivers a rich, velvety consistency that’s perfectly balanced by the savory chicken broth. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half.

Garlic and onion are essential for building a flavorful foundation. Sautéing them at the beginning of the recipe releases their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Lastly, you’ll need a large pot and a wooden spoon to make stirring and serving easy.

How To Make This 30-Minute Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Next, stir in diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting the vegetables soften slightly. This step ensures the veggies retain a bit of texture in the finished soup.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and gnocchi. Reduce the heat to medium and let the gnocchi cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the top.

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Let the soup simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors. Finally, add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts into the soup.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. In just 30 minutes, you’ve got a comforting, restaurant-quality meal ready to enjoy.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.

While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free gnocchi. These are widely available in many stores.

Want to add a little heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

You can also use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk if you’re avoiding dairy. Just note that the texture may be slightly different.

Finally, try swapping spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.

This 30-minute chicken gnocchi soup is truly a recipe you can make your own. Whether you stick to the original or experiment with variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.