Chicken Gnocchi Soup
When the weather turns cool, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. This Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe checks all the boxes—creamy, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re trying to feed a family or just need a simple meal idea for empty nester life, this easy recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Recipe
Most of us are looking for meals that don’t require a ton of ingredients or effort—something that feels homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe comes together in one pot, uses pantry staples, and tastes even better the next day. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and celery; cook until soft, about 5 minutes. TIP: You can find these prechopped at Trader Joes, look for mirapoux
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or bone broth, then add the half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken and gnocchi, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi float to the top (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the spinach and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
Serving Ideas
- For families: Pair with a loaf of crusty bread and a simple salad for a restaurant-style dinner at home.
- For empty nesters: Make the full batch and freeze half—it reheats beautifully for an easy weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is the kind of easy recipe that feels special without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or adjusting to empty nester life, it’s a cozy meal that never disappoints. Check out our Empty Nester Kitchen finds and fav soup pots here.