Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to chilly evenings with friends. This dish features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach simmered in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian flavors. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: This soup is packed with rich Italian flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and cooking time of 30 minutes, you can enjoy this meal in under an hour.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or a starter, this soup fits various meal occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting taste makes it an ideal choice for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large pot: Essential for even cooking and allowing for the simmering of flavors in your soup.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients
Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup has tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, in a creamy/savory broth infused w/ 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
For Thickening the Broth
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 Tbsp chicken base
- 2 ½ Tbsp flour
For the Liquid Ingredients
- 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 Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil until hot. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies start to soften—about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Mix Tomato Paste & Flour
Stir in tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer and partially cover with a lid. 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 to the pot. 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 an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. This soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that elevate the meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful touch and is great for soaking up the soup.
Topped with Herbs
- Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of freshness.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives can enhance the visual appeal and add a mild onion flavor.
With Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to each bowl.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can provide a delightful gooey texture when added just before serving.
How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
To make your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings based on your preference for salt and spice.
- Cook Gnocchi Separately: For a firmer texture, consider cooking gnocchi separately before adding them to the soup.
- Add Spinach Last: Add baby spinach at the end of cooking to keep it vibrant and fresh in color.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement Italian flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and nutritional value to the meal.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs well with soup.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and enhances the dining experience.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a hearty addition alongside the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of gnocchi: Not all gnocchi is created equal. Choose shelf-stable gnocchi for the best texture and flavor in your soup.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Cook them just until they start to soften for added texture.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! The flavors can change during cooking, so adjust seasonings like salt and pepper before serving.
- Skipping the browning step: Don’t skip scraping the browned bits from the pot. This enhances the flavor of your soup significantly.
- Adding dairy too early: Introducing evaporated milk too soon may cause curdling. Wait until later in the cooking process to maintain creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (approximately 5-10 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe.
What is Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe known for?
Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is famous for its creamy texture, savory broth, and hearty ingredients that make it perfect for any season.
Can I customize my Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
Yes! You can add your favorite vegetables or spices. Consider including bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.
How do I make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and a suitable flour alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a delightful dish perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings. This recipe features tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, complemented by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth infused with classic Italian herbs. Quick to prepare and loaded with nutritious ingredients, this soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. Whether served as a main course or starter, this crowd-pleaser will quickly become a beloved favorite in your household.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- 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 cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 3–4 oz baby spinach
- 1 can evaporated milk
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, chicken base, and flour to create a roux; cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while scraping browned bits from the pot. Bring to a simmer and cover partially for about 15 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken, spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi; cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
