Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe: Ready in 30 Minutes

This easy chicken gnocchi soup recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes using simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The secret to this streamlined version is using quality store-bought broth, pre-cooked chicken, and a clever thickening technique that skips the traditional roux. You'll get a creamy, satisfying soup without heavy cream or complicated steps—perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.

If you've ever wanted a comforting bowl of chicken gnocchi soup but thought it required hours of preparation, this recipe will change your mind. The classic Thomas Keller version inspired many home cooks, but its complexity often discourages weeknight attempts. Our simplified approach maintains all the rich flavor and creamy texture while cutting preparation time significantly. The key is understanding which elements truly matter for flavor development and which steps can be streamlined without sacrificing quality.

Why This Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Works

Traditional chicken gnocchi soup recipes often require making stock from scratch, preparing gnocchi from scratch, and creating a roux for thickening—all time-consuming processes. Our version focuses on smart substitutions that maintain quality while saving time:

• Quality store-bought broth replaces hours of stock preparation
• Pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover) eliminates cooking time
• Direct thickening method skips the roux while maintaining creamy texture
• Potato starch creates velvety consistency without dairy overload

These strategic simplifications transform what's typically a weekend project into a realistic weeknight dinner option without compromising on the comforting, rich qualities that make chicken gnocchi soup so beloved.

Simple Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients

This recipe uses accessible ingredients with notes on why each matters and possible substitutions:

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters	Substitutions
Chicken broth	4 cups	Foundation of flavor; use low-sodium for control	Vegetable broth for poultry-free version
Cooked chicken	2 cups, shredded	Protein element; pre-cooked saves time	Turkey or omit for vegetarian version
Gnocchi	12 oz package	Provides signature texture; shelf-stable works	Potato dumplings or small pasta
Heavy cream	½ cup	Adds richness; can be reduced for lighter version	Full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free
Potato starch	2 tbsp	Creates velvety texture without roux	Cornstarch (use 1:1 ratio)
Fresh herbs	2 tbsp chopped	Finishing touch that elevates flavor	Dried herbs (use 1 tsp)

Step-by-Step Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps for perfect results every time:

1. Heat the base (5 minutes): In a large pot, bring broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Avoid boiling to preserve flavor.
2. Add aromatics (2 minutes): Stir in 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until fragrant but not browned.
3. Incorporate gnocchi (5-7 minutes): Add gnocchi and simmer until they float to the surface, indicating they're cooked through.
4. Thicken the soup (3 minutes): Whisk potato starch with ¼ cup cold water, then gradually stir into soup. It will thicken within minutes.
5. Add chicken and cream (2 minutes): Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream. Heat through but don't boil after adding dairy.
6. Season and finish (1 minute): Add salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tips for the Best 30-Minute Chicken Gnocchi Soup

These professional techniques ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Don't overcook the gnocchi—they become gummy if boiled too long. Remove from heat as soon as they float.
• Use room temperature dairy to prevent curdling when added to hot soup.
• Reserve some herbs for garnish to add fresh flavor and visual appeal.
• For extra depth, add a Parmesan rind while simmering the broth (remove before serving).
• If soup thickens too much upon standing, thin with additional broth or water when reheating.

Customizations for Dietary Needs

This easy chicken gnocchi soup adapts well to various dietary requirements:

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free gnocchi (most potato gnocchi are naturally GF)
• Dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use olive oil instead of butter
• Lower carb: Replace gnocchi with diced cauliflower or zucchini noodles
• Vegetarian: Omit chicken, use vegetable broth, and add white beans for protein

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage maintains quality for future meals:

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze without dairy for best results; add cream when reheating
• Reheating: Warm gently over medium-low heat, adding broth if too thick
• Reviving leftovers: Stir in a splash of broth and fresh herbs to refresh flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chicken gnocchi soup without heavy cream?

Yes, you can create a creamy texture without heavy cream by using the potato starch thickening method described in this recipe. For dairy-free creaminess, substitute full-fat coconut milk. The soup will still have a rich, velvety texture without the traditional cream base.

How do I prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy in soup?

To prevent mushy gnocchi, add them toward the end of cooking and remove from heat as soon as they float to the surface (typically 2-3 minutes). Don't over-stir once added, and avoid boiling vigorously after adding them. For meal prep, cook gnocchi separately and add to individual portions when serving.

What's the best store-bought broth for easy chicken gnocchi soup?

Look for low-sodium, high-quality chicken broth with minimal ingredients. Brands like Swanson Unsalted, Kitchen Basics, or Pacific Foods offer good options. For best results, choose broths without artificial flavors or excessive preservatives. If using regular sodium broth, reduce added salt during preparation.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this quick chicken gnocchi soup recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Add them directly to the simmering broth without thawing—just extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Frozen gnocchi often holds its shape better than refrigerated varieties, making it ideal for soup applications where you want to maintain texture.

How can I add more vegetables to this simple chicken gnocchi soup?

For added nutrition, stir in 1 cup of spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking. You can also include diced carrots or celery when sautéing the onions. Frozen peas work well too—add them with the chicken to heat through without overcooking. These additions boost nutritional value without compromising the soup's creamy texture.