Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. This creamy soup is not only a perfect dish for chilly evenings but is also versatile enough for gatherings or family dinners. With classic Italian flavors infused throughout, it’s sure to impress your guests and keep you cozy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, this soup comes together quickly.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and savory broth you’ll crave.
- Comforting Texture: The addition of gnocchi gives this soup a satisfying texture that feels indulgent yet comforting.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for sautéing vegetables evenly and simmering the soup to perfection.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping all your ingredients efficiently.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, making prep work quicker and safer.

Ingredients
Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup has tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, in a creamy/savory broth infused with classic Italian flavors.
For the Soup Base
- 8 oz jar oil-packed sun dried tomatoes – chopped (reserve 2 Tbsp. of oil)
- 1 Large onion (diced)
- 3 Large carrots (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 Tbsp. chicken base
- 2 ½ Tbsp flour
Broth and Creaminess
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 – 12 oz can evaporated milk
For the Final Touches
- 2 cups heaping cooked chicken (- shredded or chopped)
- 3-4 oz. baby spinach
- 1 pound shelf stable gnocchi
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
How to Make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of reserved sun-dried tomato oil until hot.
1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Sauté until the veggies start to soften (about 5 minutes).
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
1. Sauté for another minute to release aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined.
1. Cook while stirring for 1 minute to help thicken the mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
1. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring to a simmer while partially covering the pot with a lid.
1. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi into the pot.
1. Cook over medium-low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!
This delicious Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quiet night at home or gathering with friends.
How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Hearty and comforting, Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Add Extra Protein
- Top each bowl with more shredded chicken or even some sautéed shrimp for added protein.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls that add extra flavor.
Include a Side Salad
- A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
Offer Parmesan Cheese
- Provide grated parmesan cheese at the table so everyone can add their desired amount for an extra savory touch.
How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
To ensure your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken broth will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
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Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Add gnocchi towards the end of cooking to keep them tender and pillowy.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors.
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Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup’s creamy broth.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and pairs well with the richness of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a delightful sweetness that complements the soup’s savory notes.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and roasted peppers makes a great appetizer.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Crispy grilled cheese offers a nostalgic comfort food pairing with the soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds health benefits while keeping you full without overpowering the main dish.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for a flavorful side that’s easy to share.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the overall flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality chicken broth can lead to bland soup. Opt for a good brand or homemade broth for the best flavor.
- Not properly measuring ingredients: Adding too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the soup’s consistency. Use accurate measurements for a balanced dish.
- Overcooking gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to keep it tender.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this step, as it builds a rich base for your soup.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, gnocchi may change texture upon thawing.
Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use homemade chicken broth for this recipe?
Yes! Homemade chicken broth adds an incredible depth of flavor and is highly recommended.
How do I make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and choose gluten-free gnocchi.
What can I add to enhance flavors?
You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice also brightens the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preferences. Try making this delightful dish today—it’s perfect for chilly evenings and will surely become a family favorite!
Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the warmth and richness of our Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, a delightful dish perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. This creamy soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, all simmered in a savory broth infused with classic Italian herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes total cooking time, you’ll have a nourishing bowl of comfort ready to enjoy in no time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 large carrots (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 3–4 oz baby spinach
- 1 can evaporated milk
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute.
- Mix in tomato paste, chicken base, and flour; cook while stirring for about one minute.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release flavors. Bring to a simmer.
- Add shredded chicken, spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi; cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until heated through.
- Serve topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
