Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Recipe: There’s something magical about a bowl of warm, creamy soup on a chilly day. Among the many comforting soups out there, chicken and gnocchi soup holds a special place. It combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a creamy broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. This dish is popular in Italian-inspired cuisine and has also become a favorite in American homes, especially since restaurants like Olive Garden made it a signature dish on their menu.
But beyond restaurant dining, chicken and gnocchi soup is a recipe you can easily make at home with fresh ingredients, offering the same rich flavor without spending extra money. The best part? It’s versatile—you can prepare it as a hearty dinner, a meal prep option for busy weeks, or even as a dish for special family gatherings.
Imagine coming home after a long day, and the aroma of garlic, herbs, and creamy broth fills your kitchen. That’s the magic this soup delivers. It’s not just food—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and nourishment in one bowl. Plus, it’s customizable. You can make it lighter with a broth-based version, or go all in with cream for extra richness.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need: the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, kitchen tools to make cooking easier, and tips to elevate the flavor. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe to make restaurant-style chicken and gnocchi soup right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to a flavorful chicken and gnocchi soup is fresh, high-quality ingredients. This dish balances protein, carbs, and vegetables in a creamy broth, making it wholesome and filling. Below is a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need, along with suggestions for substitutions if you want to adjust flavors or make it fit dietary preferences.
Main Ingredients for the Soup
- Chicken breast or thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal. Thighs give a richer flavor, while breasts keep it lean.
- Gnocchi – These soft potato dumplings are the star of the dish. You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, or make homemade if you want an authentic touch.
- Chicken broth or stock – The base of your soup. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the salt. Homemade stock works wonderfully too.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – This gives the soup its creamy texture. You can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
- Carrots – Diced for sweetness and color.
- Celery – Adds crunch and depth of flavor.
- Onion – Yellow or white onions work best, finely chopped.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves are essential for rich aroma.
- Spinach – Baby spinach is ideal; it wilts quickly and adds a nutritious boost.
- Parsley – Fresh parsley for garnish and freshness.
Spices and Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- Thyme – Fresh or dried thyme for a subtle earthy note.
- Oregano – For an Italian touch.
- Bay leaf – Adds depth while simmering.
- Paprika (optional) – For a hint of smokiness.
Optional Ingredients and Substitutions
- Mushrooms – For a heartier version.
- Zucchini or peas – Extra veggies to bulk up the soup.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated cheese for topping.
- Butter – Can replace some of the oil for richness.
- Gluten-free gnocchi – For those with gluten intolerance.
Having all your ingredients ready before cooking makes the process smoother. It’s a good idea to chop vegetables, measure spices, and prepare the broth in advance, so when it’s time to cook, you can simply follow each step without pausing.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
You don’t need fancy equipment to make this soup, but having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly, preventing burning.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – For chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To get ingredient proportions just right.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Ladle – To serve the soup neatly.
- Colander – Useful if you need to drain gnocchi before adding.
Optional tools:
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot – If you want a hands-off version, this recipe works well in both.
- Hand blender – If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend part of the soup before adding gnocchi.
- Grater or microplane – For fresh Parmesan cheese topping.
With these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to make chicken and gnocchi soup without stress.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Cooking this soup is straightforward, even for beginners. It follows the basic structure of sautéing, simmering, and combining fresh ingredients to create a creamy, hearty dish. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping all ingredients. Dice the carrots, celery, and onions into small, even pieces so they cook evenly. Mince garlic cloves for maximum flavor. Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes, or if you prefer shredded chicken, cook it whole and shred it later. Wash and roughly chop spinach. Measure out seasonings in small bowls to save time while cooking.
Prepping ahead not only saves time but also ensures that nothing gets overcooked while you scramble to chop vegetables. Think of it as setting the stage before the cooking show begins.
Step 2 – Cooking the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. This step locks in flavor and prevents bland chicken later in the soup.
If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step and add the shredded chicken later during the simmering stage. This flexibility makes the recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you want a shortcut.
Step 3 – Sautéing Vegetables and Aromatics
Once the chicken is cooked and set aside, it’s time to build the foundation of flavor. In the same pot, add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery—the classic mirepoix combination that forms the backbone of countless soups. Sauté these vegetables for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until they start to soften and release their aroma.
Next, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it. The goal here is to unlock its fragrance, not to let it turn bitter. At this point, sprinkle in thyme, oregano, and a pinch of paprika. Allowing the herbs to warm up in the oil helps them release their essential oils, deepening the flavor of the broth.
As the vegetables and aromatics cook, they begin to layer flavors. The sweetness of the carrots, the earthiness of celery, and the slight sharpness of onion come together beautifully. Imagine these ingredients as the stage crew setting the scene before the star—gnocchi—makes its appearance.
If you’re adding mushrooms or zucchini, this is the stage to sauté them as well. They soak up flavors and add texture. This step is crucial because it ensures the soup doesn’t just taste creamy—it has depth, warmth, and character.
Step 4 – Making the Creamy Soup Base
Now comes the part where your soup starts to feel hearty and indulgent. With the vegetables softened, pour in your chicken broth or stock. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot, releasing all the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken earlier. This technique, called “deglazing,” adds a rich, savory undertone to the broth.
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. At this stage, drop in a bay leaf for extra depth.
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have blended, it’s time to make it creamy. Reduce the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Keep stirring gently so the cream incorporates smoothly without curdling. You’ll notice the soup transforming from a light broth into a velvety, luxurious base.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can whisk 1–2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a splash of broth and stir it into the soup. This simple trick gives you that restaurant-style thickness without overpowering the natural flavors.
Taste the soup at this stage and adjust with salt and pepper. Remember, broth can vary in saltiness, so always season gradually. The creamy base should feel rich but balanced, ready to welcome the gnocchi.
Step 5 – Adding the Gnocchi and Final Touches
Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the gnocchi. Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering soup. If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, they usually take just 3–4 minutes to cook. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top. Stir gently to prevent sticking, and don’t overcook, as gnocchi can become mushy if left too long.
Next, stir in fresh spinach leaves. They’ll wilt almost instantly, adding both color and nutrition. This step balances out the richness of the creamy broth with a fresh, earthy taste.
For the final flavor boost, sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. The Parmesan melts into the soup, adding a nutty, salty kick that ties everything together.
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and give the soup one last taste test. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Then ladle the soup into bowls, top with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if you like, and serve with warm crusty bread on the side.
This final step is where everything comes together: tender chicken, soft gnocchi, creamy broth, and fresh greens. It’s more than just a soup—it’s a complete, soul-warming meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for the Best Flavor
Making chicken and gnocchi soup is simple, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to unforgettable:
1. How to Thicken the Soup Without Losing Flavor
If you love a thicker soup, avoid adding too much cream—it can make it heavy. Instead, use a cornstarch slurry or mash a few cooked gnocchi into the broth. This keeps the flavors balanced while achieving that velvety texture.
2. Balancing Creaminess and Flavor
Too much cream can dull the taste of herbs and spices. To balance richness, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg. These brighten the soup without making it taste sour.
3. Adjusting for Dietary Needs
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream and add extra broth.
- For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works surprisingly well. It gives a subtle sweetness without overpowering.
- For gluten-free eaters, simply swap in gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in stores.
4. Make It Ahead
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. If reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up, since gnocchi tends to soak up liquid.
5. Serving Ideas
Pair the soup with garlic bread, focaccia, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, also pairs wonderfully.
By keeping these tricks in mind, you’ll not only master this recipe but also be able to adjust it to fit any occasion or craving.
Variations of Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
One of the best things about chicken and gnocchi soup is how versatile it can be. While the classic creamy version is a crowd favorite, there are countless ways to tweak the recipe based on your taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply what you have in the fridge. Here are some exciting variations to try:
1. Classic Olive Garden-Style Soup
This is the version most people are familiar with—rich, creamy, and packed with chicken, gnocchi, spinach, and herbs. It’s indulgent and perfect for when you’re craving comfort food.
2. Light and Brothy Version
If you want something lighter, skip the cream and make a broth-based soup. Use extra chicken broth, add more vegetables like zucchini or kale, and finish with a splash of lemon juice for brightness. It’s lighter but still satisfying.
3. Dairy-Free Option
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or oat milk. Both provide creaminess without dairy, and coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with herbs and spices.
4. Gluten-Free Gnocchi Soup
Nowadays, gluten-free gnocchi made from rice flour or cassava flour is widely available. They cook up just as tender and delicious as traditional potato gnocchi, making this soup accessible to everyone.
5. Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup
Simply omit the chicken and replace it with mushrooms, chickpeas, or white beans. They provide a hearty bite and blend seamlessly into the creamy base.
6. Spicy Kick Version
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste to give the soup a spicy twist. This is great for those who love a little heat in their comfort food.
7. Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Version
If you prefer a hands-off cooking method, this soup works beautifully in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply sauté the vegetables first, then add everything except the gnocchi and spinach. Cook on low for 6–7 hours (or high for 3–4 hours). Add the gnocchi and spinach just before serving.
These variations show how adaptable the recipe is. Whether you’re cooking for kids, guests, or yourself, you can easily tailor chicken and gnocchi soup to fit the moment.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Soup is one of those dishes that often tastes better the next day, and chicken and gnocchi soup is no exception. However, because gnocchi is delicate and tends to absorb liquid, proper storage and reheating are key to keeping your leftovers delicious.
Storing in the Refrigerator
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
If you know you’ll be storing leftovers, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and only adding them to individual bowls when reheating. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy.
Freezing the Soup
Freezing creamy soups can be tricky because dairy sometimes separates after thawing. If you plan to freeze:
- Prepare the soup base without adding cream or gnocchi.
- Freeze the broth and chicken mixture in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw, reheat, then add fresh cream and gnocchi.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the gnocchi rubbery. Stovetop reheating ensures the soup stays creamy and smooth.
What to Serve with Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
While chicken and gnocchi soup can easily stand as a complete meal, pairing it with the right side dishes makes the dining experience even better. Here are some great ideas:
1. Bread and Rolls
- Garlic breadsticks (just like Olive Garden!)
- Crusty baguette slices with butter
- Soft dinner rolls
2. Fresh Salads
- Caesar salad with crunchy croutons
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Tomato and cucumber salad for freshness
3. Roasted Vegetables
- Oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots
- Grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil
4. Light Side Dishes
- Steamed rice or quinoa for extra heartiness
- A small charcuterie board with cheese and olives
5. Drinks and Pairings
- White wines like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling water with lemon slices
- Apple cider in colder months
Pairing chicken and gnocchi soup with the right sides makes it feel like a restaurant-quality meal served in the comfort of your home.
Nutritional Value of Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
While this soup is indulgent, it also packs a nutritional punch thanks to its protein, vegetables, and spinach. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional value per serving (based on a creamy version with chicken and spinach):
| Nutrient | Approx. Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350–450 kcal |
| Protein | 25–30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35–40 g |
| Fat | 15–20 g |
| Fiber | 4–6 g |
| Sodium | 600–800 mg |
Health Benefits:
- Protein from chicken supports muscle repair and keeps you full.
- Spinach provides iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Carrots and celery add fiber and essential vitamins.
- Gnocchi offers carbs for energy.
For a healthier twist, you can reduce cream, use low-sodium broth, or add more vegetables to balance the richness.
FAQs about Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Recipe
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred the meat and add it during the simmering stage.
2. What can I substitute for gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi, small pasta like tortellini, or even diced potatoes, can work as substitutes.
3. How do I keep the gnocchi from getting mushy?
Cook gnocchi just until they float, then serve immediately. Avoid overcooking, as they will soften too much if left in the hot soup.
4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, prepare the soup base first and add gnocchi and spinach right before serving. This keeps the texture fresh.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it has thickened. Stir gently to keep the cream smooth.
Conclusion
Chicken and gnocchi soup is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort in a bowl. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh vegetables, it’s a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility; you can keep it classic, make it lighter, or customize it for different dietary needs.
From prepping ingredients to simmering the creamy base and finishing with fresh spinach and Parmesan, every step in this guide ensures you create a soup that tastes like it came from a restaurant but feels even more special because you made it at home.
So the next time you want to impress your family, treat yourself on a chilly night, or simply enjoy a wholesome homemade meal, this chicken and gnocchi soup recipe will be your go-to.
