Name: Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme); ½ tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 package (16 oz / 450 g) potato gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

Description

A rich and hearty Italian-American soup featuring tender shredded chicken, soft potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy weeknights and family dinners, delivering flavors reminiscent of the beloved Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced

Protein & Broth

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
4 cups chicken broth

Seasonings

1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Main Components

1 package (16 oz / 450 g) potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach leaves

Dairy (optional)

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

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Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Chicken and Broth: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, chicken broth, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook Gnocchi: Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are done.
Incorporate Greens: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese if using. Heat gently, making sure not to bring the soup to a boil, to avoid curdling.
Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

For a thicker soup, mash a few cooked gnocchi into the broth to add body.
Make it dairy-free by substituting coconut milk for cream and omitting the Parmesan cheese.
Swap spinach with kale for a heartier texture and flavor.
Leftovers reheat well; if the soup thickens upon standing, add extra broth or water to loosen it.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup, Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American