There’s a certain charm in transforming simple ingredients into a cozy bowl of comfort, and this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup does just that. As the chill of autumn settles in and the days get shorter, I find myself craving something warm and nourishing—something that feels like a home-cooked hug. This recipe, which comes together in under an hour with the help of rotisserie chicken, is not just quick and easy; it also delivers an explosion of flavor that dances on the palate with every spoonful.
Imagine the sound of gentle bubbling as you sauté fragrant garlic and colorful veggies, only to be met with the rich creaminess of half-and-half swirling in at just the right moment. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or hosting friends with different dietary preferences, this soup has got you covered with flexible ingredient options that accommodate everyone. Trust me, your kitchen will soon be filled with aromas that call everyone to the table—because who can resist a hearty, delectable soup perfect for sharing? Get ready to dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why Will You Love Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Comforting: Cozy up with this rich, creamy soup that warms you from the inside out.
Quick to Prepare: In just under 30 minutes, this dish comes together thanks to rotisserie chicken, perfect for busy nights.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients to fit dietary needs—think low-carb options or a vegetarian twist with chickpeas!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs, garlic, and creamy half-and-half creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether cooking for family or friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone who joins you at the table.
For more creative ideas, check out my tips for customizing comfort foods.
Ingredients for Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Dive into the delightful flavors of this easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the soup; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Olive Oil – Helps in sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with any cooking oil you have on hand.
- Onion – Provides a base flavor and sweetness; use shallots for a milder taste if desired.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and color to the dish; feel free to swap with parsnips for a flavor twist.
- Celery – Contributes a fresh, crisp flavor; leeks make a great alternative if you want a different taste.
- Salt & Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste based on dietary preferences.
- Minced Garlic – Provides an aromatic flavor; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
For the Broth
- Wine – Deglazes the pan and adds acidity; swap with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Flour – Thickens the soup; use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Chicken Stock – The base of the soup that adds moisture and flavor; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess to the dish; mix whole milk and heavy cream or use unsweetened plant-based milk with cornstarch.
- Thyme and Italian Seasoning – For aromatic complexity; fresh herbs will enhance the flavors even more.
For the Heartiness
- Gnocchi – Main starch component, creating the heartiness; try small pasta or cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese – Enhances richness and flavor; nutritional yeast works as a great dairy-free substitute.
- Shredded Chicken – The star protein of the soup; for a vegetarian choice, use canned chickpeas instead.
- Fresh Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; kale can serve as a substitute, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Get ready to create a delicious bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup that you’ll be eager to share!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until the foaming subsides, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
- Sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery, along with salt and pepper, for about 5-7 minutes or until softened and starting to brown, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant; this will elevate the flavor profile of your soup!
- Deglaze the pan by pouring in the wine, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until mostly evaporated, bringing depth to the dish.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it combines well to thicken the soup later on.
- Whisk in the chicken stock gradually, allowing it to simmer and thicken. This step is key for a rich, hearty flavor.
- Add half-and-half and then sprinkle in thyme and Italian seasoning; gently simmer for a few minutes until all ingredients meld harmoniously.
- Toss in the gnocchi and let simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and floating, which indicates they’re perfectly cooked.
- Mix in the Parmesan, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach; simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed; serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper if desired.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Enhance your cozy meal experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement your steaming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup.
Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm, crusty bread adds a delightful texture that balances the creamy soup. The fragrant aroma of freshly baked bread will call everyone to the table.
Garlic Parmesan Knots: These buttery, garlicky treats are an irresistible addition that echoes the creamy, savory notes of the soup, making them a hit with family and friends.
Caesar Salad: Light and crispy, this salad adds a refreshing crunch to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the warmth of the soup. Tossed in zesty dressing, it rounds out your dining experience perfectly.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized, crunchy bites bring an earthy aroma to your plate and introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the soup.
Fresh Spinach Salad: A bright, colorful salad with citrus dressing offers a refreshing contrast. Its simplicity enhances the soup without overshadowing its comforting flavors.
Sparking Water with Lemon: This light beverage adds a zesty pop and cleanses the palate, refreshing your senses between spoonfuls of hearty gnocchi soup.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, offering cinnamon-spiced goodness that echoes the heartwarming feel of chicken gnocchi soup. The comforting hug of warm, buttery apples makes dessert simply irresistible.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully, bringing an elegant touch to your dining experience. Its acidity helps to cleanse the palate alongside your hearty meal.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Variations
Customize your Chicken Gnocchi Soup to suit your taste and dietary needs with these fun twists and swaps!
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for canned chickpeas for a hearty plant-based protein boost. You won’t miss the meat!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of half-and-half for a creamy texture, without the dairy.
Low-Carb: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb version that’s equally satisfying.
Herb Twist: Experiment by adding fresh dill or basil instead of thyme for a unique aroma and fresh flavor that brightens the soup.
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Extra Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
Protein Boost: Try swapping rotisserie chicken with shredded turkey or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
Boosted Flavor: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic to add depth and elevate the overall taste of your soup.
Feel free to get creative and make this cozy dish your own!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the creamy flavors fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Note that the gnocchi may become softer upon reheating; consider adding fresh pasta when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time and store in the refrigerator or freezer for a convenient, comforting meal that’s ready when you are!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and combine the broth ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For an even quicker prep on busy days, consider cooking the soup entirely, cooling it down, and refrigerating it for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove and add fresh gnocchi or spinach just before serving to ensure they stay tender and vibrant. This way, you’ll enjoy the hearty comfort of your Chicken Gnocchi Soup with minimal effort when you need it most!
Tips for the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Heavy Pot: Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heating and to prevent sticking, making sure your Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly creamy.
- Gentle Simmer: Maintain a gentle simmer after adding half-and-half to avoid curdling, ensuring a smooth, rich texture throughout the soup.
- Thicker or Thinner: For a thicker soup, let it sit for a few minutes before serving; if you prefer a thinner texture, serve immediately after adding gnocchi.
- Taste Test: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed; the perfect balance of salt and pepper brings out the best flavor in your dish.
- Ingredient Swaps: Embrace flexibility! Substitute fresh spinach for kale or chicken for chickpeas to cater to your dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of gnocchi should I use for Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
I recommend using store-bought potato gnocchi for easy preparation, but you could also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! If you’re looking for a low-carb option, small pasta or cauliflower florets can be delightful substitutes to maintain that hearty texture.
How can I tell if my broccoli or spinach is fresh for the soup?
Absolutely! When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves free of dark spots or wilting. Fresh spinach should feel crisp and slightly crunchy. For broccoli, choose heads that are firm and dark green; avoid any that have yellowing florets.
What’s the best way to store Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before sealing for storage to maintain its creamy dreaminess.
Can I freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain consistency.
What can I do if my soup turned out too thick?
No worries, it’s an easy fix! If your Chicken Gnocchi Soup is thicker than you prefer, simply add some chicken stock, vegetable broth, or even a little water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir it in over low heat to gently blend.
Are there any allergenic ingredients in Chicken Gnocchi Soup to consider?
Definitely! This soup contains dairy from butter, half-and-half, and Parmesan. If you want a dairy-free version, you can substitute the half-and-half with unsweetened plant-based milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Always check labels if allergies are a concern!
Cozy Up with Chicken Gnocchi Soup in Under 30 Minutes
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons Butter or substitute with olive oil for dairy-free
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or any cooking oil
- 1 cup Onion chopped; use shallots for a milder taste
- 2 medium Carrots chopped; swap with parsnips for flavor twist
- 2 stalks Celery chopped; leeks are a great alternative
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic or use garlic powder
For the Broth
- 1/2 cup Wine or swap with vegetable broth for non-alcoholic
- 2 tablespoons Flour or use cornstarch for gluten-free
- 4 cups Chicken Stock or vegetable stock for vegetarian option
- 1 cup Half-and-Half or mix whole milk and heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Thyme fresh herbs will enhance flavors
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning for aromatic complexity
For the Heartiness
- 1 pound Gnocchi or small pasta for low-carb alternative
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free
- 2 cups Shredded Chicken or canned chickpeas for vegetarian
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach or kale, adjust cooking times
Instructions
Instructions
- Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until the foaming subsides.
- Sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery, along with salt and pepper, for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan by pouring in the wine, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until mostly evaporated.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it combines well to thicken the soup.
- Whisk in the chicken stock gradually, allowing it to simmer and thicken.
- Add half-and-half and sprinkle in thyme and Italian seasoning; gently simmer for a few minutes.
- Toss in the gnocchi and let simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and floating.
- Mix in the Parmesan, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach; simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed; serve hot.