30-minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade chicken gnocchi soup on a chilly evening. This creamy, hearty dish is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables, making it the ultimate comfort food. And the best part? You can have it on the table in just 30 minutes!

this Recipe

I first fell in love with chicken gnocchi soup during a family dinner at our favorite Italian restaurant. Determined to recreate that velvety richness at home, I came up with this version that’s not only delicious but also quicker and healthier. Let’s dive in and whip up a pot of this irresistible soup.

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

Get ready to add this chicken gnocchi soup to your weekly dinner rotation. It’s the perfect recipe for busy nights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With a cook time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have dinner ready before the kids start asking, “What’s for dinner?”

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. There’s no need to hunt for specialty items, and yet, the result tastes like something straight out of a restaurant.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to swap in some leftover rotisserie chicken or add extra vegetables to sneak in more nutrients, this recipe can handle it all without compromising on flavor.

Finally, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that everyone from picky toddlers to discerning adults will love.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this chicken gnocchi soup lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient contributing to the rich, satisfying flavor profile.

The star of the show is the gnocchi, those soft, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes. You can find them in the pasta aisle or refrigerated section of most grocery stores. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the soup beautifully.

Chicken adds protein and heartiness. I prefer using pre-cooked shredded chicken or diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly if you’re short on time.

The base of the soup is a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream, which gives it a creamy yet light texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Vegetables like celery, carrots, and spinach bring both color and nutrition to the dish. The spinach wilts perfectly into the hot soup, adding a touch of freshness.

You’ll also need garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning for flavor, along with a touch of cornstarch to thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.

How to Make This 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Making this chicken gnocchi soup is easier than you think, with just a few simple steps to bring it all together.

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped celery until they’re softened and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your soup.

Next, stir in your shredded or diced chicken, followed by carrots and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling, add the gnocchi directly into the pot. These little dumplings will cook in the broth, soaking up all those delicious flavors.

As the gnocchi cook, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch in a small bowl. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously. This step thickens the soup and gives it that creamy, luscious texture.

Finally, toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Give the whole pot a good stir, taste for seasoning, and add salt and pepper as needed. Within 30 minutes, your soup is ready to serve.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem. This chicken gnocchi soup stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Transfer any cooled soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to reheat it gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the gnocchi.

If you’d like to freeze it, skip adding the spinach and gnocchi before freezing. Instead, freeze the soup base, then add the spinach and gnocchi when reheating. This helps preserve their texture.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the soup’s creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and ensure your gnocchi doesn’t contain any dairy ingredients. The soup will still be wonderfully creamy with a subtle coconut flavor.

Vegetarian? Simply skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.

If you want to amp up the veggies, throw in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or red bell peppers. This is a great way to use up any produce lingering in your fridge.

Prefer a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the broth for a little heat.

For a gluten-free version, check the labels on your gnocchi and broth, as some store-bought options may contain gluten. Many brands now offer gluten-free gnocchi made from alternative flours.

This 30-minute homemade chicken gnocchi soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Experiment with the variations, make it your own, and enjoy a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Print