Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe Creamy Spinach Broth With Carrot Jewels

I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for a truly comforting and easy weeknight meal. This creamy chicken gnocchi soup recipe with vibrant spinach and carrot jewels fills my kitchen with the most inviting aroma as it simmers, promising a bowl of cozy goodness. It’s a fantastic healthy dinner idea, perfect for busy family schedules when you need something wholesome fast. My kids even declared this chicken gnocchi soup recipe their new favorite, which is high praise in our house! This recipe offers a balanced, nutritious meal and is surprisingly quick to make.

Ingredient Ledger (Amount • Role • Swap)

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (30 ml) • Sauté base • Can use butter or avocado oil if you prefer.
• 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (or Thighs) (450 g) • Lean protein • Provides hearty substance for this chicken gnocchi soup recipe.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced (150 g) • Aromatic base • Adds essential depth of flavor.
• 2-3 Carrots, peeled & diced (150-200 g) • Sweetness, ‘jewels’ • Vitamin A boost and lovely color.
• 2-3 stalks Celery, diced (100-150 g) • Classic mirepoix • Adds savory notes.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced (20 g) • Pungent flavor • Essential aroma.
• 6 cups Chicken Broth (low sodium) (1.4 L) • Soup base • Flavorful liquid (I often use organic low-sodium broth).
• 1 cup Half-and-Half (or whole milk if that’s what’s in the fridge) (240 ml) • Creaminess • Rich texture.
• 1 (16 oz) package Potato Gnocchi (shelf-stable) (450 g) • Tender dumplings • Quick cook.
• 5 oz Fresh Spinach (140 g) • Nutrients, color • Wilts beautifully into the broth.
• Salt and Black Pepper • Seasoning • To taste.
• Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped • Garnish • Fresh finish.

Health-forward upgrades:

• Choose organic chicken breast for higher quality protein, making it a truly healthy dinner idea.
• Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt intake.
• Use fresh, vibrant spinach for maximum nutrients.

Substitutions for common diets:

• Keto/Low-Carb: Omit gnocchi, add cauliflower florets or zoodles for a delicious low-carb meal. Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
• Vegan: Swap chicken for cannellini beans or firm tofu cubes; use vegetable broth and plant-based cream.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure gnocchi is gluten-free (many brands are available for a tasty gluten-free dinner).

Seasonality/quality notes:

• Fresh, local carrots and spinach offer the best flavor and vibrant color.
• Use good quality chicken broth for a richer, more satisfying soup base.
• Don’t skimp on fresh garlic for aromatic depth; it truly makes a difference.

Step-by-Step Method & Appliance Matrix

1. Prep Ingredients (10 mins): Dice 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch pieces; chop 1 medium yellow onion, 2-3 carrots, and 2-3 celery stalks into small, even pieces. Mince 4 cloves garlic. Sensory Cue: Aim for uniform cuts for even cooking. Practical Variable: This prep takes about 10 minutes.
2. Sauté Aromatics (8-10 mins): Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides (3-5 mins). Remove chicken and set aside. Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant (5-7 mins). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic. Sensory Cue: Vegetables will soften and smell sweet. Practical Variable: Adjust heat to prevent garlic from burning.
3. Build Broth (5 mins): Deglaze the pot with a splash of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the remaining broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Sensory Cue: The broth will start to bubble gently at the edges. Practical Variable: Bring to a simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Gnocchi & Cream (5-7 mins): Stir in the potato gnocchi; cook until tender and floating (3-5 mins). Pour in the half-and-half; heat through gently without boiling. If your creamy chicken gnocchi soup looks too thick, splash in 1–2 Tbsp more broth. Sensory Cue: Gnocchi will become plump and float to the top. Practical Variable: Keep the heat low after adding cream to prevent curdling.
5. Finish & Serve (2 mins): Stir in the fresh spinach until it’s wilted into the soup. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Sensory Cue: Spinach will quickly turn a vibrant green. Practical Variable: This final step only takes about 2 minutes.

Appliance options with quick time deltas:

• Stovetop (Our primary method): 30-35 minutes total for a comforting easy chicken gnocchi soup.
• Instant Pot: Use sauté mode for chicken and vegetables, then pressure cook (High, 5 mins) for chicken. After depressurizing, add gnocchi, half-and-half, and spinach. This method can save 5-10 minutes of active cooking.
• Slow Cooker (for chicken only): Cook chicken on low for 3-4 hours, then shred. Add to a stovetop soup base with gnocchi, vegetables, and broth for a quick finish.

Mini troubleshooting:

• Too dry? Add more broth or a splash of milk/cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Bland? Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of dried herbs (like Italian seasoning). A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens flavors.
• Mushy gnocchi? Don’t overcook! Gnocchi cooks very quickly once added, usually just 3-5 minutes until tender.
• Spinach not bright? Add spinach last, just before serving, to keep its vibrant color and fresh texture.

When to Serve & How to Pair

This heartwarming soup is a versatile, comforting meal for any occasion.

Situations

• Weeknights: Enjoy this easy chicken gnocchi soup recipe for a quick, satisfying dinner.
• Lunchboxes: Pack in a thermos for a warm, delicious mid-day meal.
• Casual Gatherings: An easy crowd-pleaser that feels special.

Pairings

• Sides: Crusty bread or a simple green salad.
• Toppings: Freshly grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes.
• Beverages: White wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage & reheating

Store cooled soup in airtight fridge containers for 3-4 days. Freeze (without gnocchi for best texture) for 2-3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave; add broth if thick.

Micronutrition & Diet Tags for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This creamy soup is a healthy dinner idea for balanced, vibrant eating.

Benefits

• High-Protein: Lean chicken fuels energy and muscle.
• Vitamin-Rich: Fiber and vitamins from spinach and carrots.
• Balanced Meal: Carbs, healthy fats, and abundant vegetables.

Diet labels it can fit

• Keto/Low-Carb: Omit gnocchi, add cauliflower or zoodles; use heavy cream.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Swap chicken for beans/tofu; use vegetable broth/plant-based cream.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free gnocchi or vegetable swaps.

Time, Cost & Batch Plan

This hearty soup allows for quick, budget-friendly meals and efficient planning.

Prep vs cook vs total

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes.

Approximate cost per serving and money-saving swaps

Approximate cost is $3.00 – $4.00 per serving. Save money by buying chicken in bulk or using generic brand gnocchi.

Batch plan

• Double Up: Double the recipe for extra portions.
• Single Servings: Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go meals.
• Freezing: Freeze portions (without gnocchi) for quick thaw-and-reheat.

Sourcing Tiers & Smart Buying

Choosing ingredients wisely enhances flavor and nutrition.

Good

Conventional supermarket picks: standard chicken, shelf-stable gnocchi, produce.

Better

Quality brands: antibiotic-free chicken, fresh gnocchi, organic low-sodium broth. Choose vibrant spinach/carrots.

Best

Enhanced flavor/nutrition: pasture-raised chicken, local organic vegetables, homemade broth.

Where to shop

• Farmer’s Markets: Fresh produce.
• Whole Foods/Sprouts: Organic/specialty.
• Costco/Online: Bulk/delivery.

Flavor Paths, Pro Tips & Safety

Elevate your creamy chicken gnocchi soup with variations for a perfect outcome.

Flavor paths

• Classic: Comforting, savory.
• Herby-Citrus: Italian herbs, lemon, fresh dill.
• Smoky-Spicy: Smoked paprika, cayenne.

Technique boosts

• Browning chicken/veggies builds flavor.
• Avoid boiling cream; gentle simmer.
• Spinach wilted, not overcooked.

Allergy-aware swaps and safety notes

• Dairy-Free: Full-fat coconut milk.
• Nut-Free: Naturally nut-free.
• Safety: Cook chicken to 165°F (74°C).

Waste-Reduction & Leftover Makeovers

Ensure no delicious soup goes to waste with these smart ideas.

Reuse ideas

• Grain bowl with quinoa/farro.
• Chicken/veggie wraps.
• Cold salad over greens.

Freezer cubes, broth/stock usage

• Freeze extra broth in ice cube trays.
• Use veggie scraps for homemade stock.

Labeling and date tips for minimal waste

Label all stored leftovers with contents/date. Practice ‘First In, First Out.’

FAQs

Is creamy chicken gnocchi soup recipe good for weekly meal prep or weight goals?

Yes, this creamy chicken gnocchi soup recipe is excellent for meal prep. For weight goals, focus on lean chicken, generous fresh vegetables, and mindful gnocchi portions. It’s a satisfying, healthy option for busy schedules.

Healthiest substitute for gnocchi if I’m gluten-free/vegan?

For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free gnocchi or about 2 cups of cauliflower florets. For vegan, roasted butternut squash cubes or cannellini beans make a delicious, nutritious swap that adds bulk and flavor.

Best place to buy ingredients locally or via grocery delivery for this chicken gnocchi soup recipe?

I find local farmer’s markets fantastic for fresh, seasonal produce, especially for those vibrant carrot jewels. For pantry staples and chicken, larger supermarkets or online delivery work well to gather ingredients efficiently.

How long does creamy chicken gnocchi soup keep and how to reheat for best texture?

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat for best texture, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.

What kind of gnocchi works best in this easy chicken gnocchi soup?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi is incredibly convenient and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this easy chicken gnocchi soup recipe. Fresh or frozen gnocchi also work beautifully; adjust cooking time slightly for tender, not mushy, results.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this chicken gnocchi soup?

Yes, absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this chicken gnocchi soup. Add it with the broth to heat through, saving valuable prep time on busy weeknights and making a quick meal even quicker.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a truly satisfying creamy chicken gnocchi soup recipe that wins on taste, nutrition, incredible convenience, and smart savings for your family. This hearty, family-friendly meal is sure to become a favorite in your healthy eating routine. Ready to enjoy this cozy bowl? Pin this recipe, add the ingredients to your shopping list, and make weeknight dinners delicious again!

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