Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Recipe: A Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal to warm up a chilly evening, this Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a must-try. It’s loaded with tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh baby spinach, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful soup that feels both satisfying and indulgent. Each spoonful is brimming with coziness—just the kind of dish you want to come home to after a long day.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

This recipe quickly became a family favorite in my household. It’s one of those dishes that instantly fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and makes everyone gather around the table. I came across this fantastic recipe at Insanely Good Recipes, and it’s too good not to share with you!

The Origins of Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Chicken and gnocchi soup has its roots in Italian cuisine, where gnocchi—small dumplings made from potato, flour, or semolina—are a staple. These delicate dumplings pair beautifully with various broths and sauces, making them incredibly versatile. While many versions of gnocchi soups exist, this creamy adaptation has gained popularity in the U.S., often featured in Italian-American restaurants. Adding spinach and half-and-half creates a velvety texture and elevates the humble soup into a gourmet delight.

How to Make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This easy chicken and gnocchi soup recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The soup’s richness is balanced by fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy note. The best part? The gnocchi cooks right in the soup, absorbing the savory flavors while remaining soft and fluffy.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (16-ounce) package of mini potato gnocchi
• 1 (6-ounce) bag of baby spinach leaves
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the cooked, cubed chicken and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi begins to float. This signals that it’s perfectly cooked.
4. Add the baby spinach, cooking for an additional 3 minutes while stirring regularly until the spinach wilts.
5. (Optional) In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the soup along with the half-and-half. If not using cornstarch, simply add the half-and-half.
6. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

• For a thicker soup: Use the cornstarch slurry as suggested in the recipe. This will give the soup a luscious, creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Add some cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. The salty, nutty flavor enhances the richness of the broth.
• Make it gluten-free: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the regular potato gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi, which is now available at many grocery stores.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread roll or a simple green salad to balance the creaminess. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal. If you’re hosting a dinner, consider pairing it with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect flavor match.

I hope you enjoy this best chicken and gnocchi soup recipe as much as I do. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out, and let me know how it turned out! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to hit the follow button for more delicious ideas like this one. Share it with your friends, and leave a comment below with your thoughts!