There are few things as comforting as a warm bowl of soup, and this Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings recipe takes that comfort to a whole new level. Imagine tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory cream broth that warms you from the inside out. This isn’t just a soup; it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Forget the restaurant versions—this homemade dish is richer, creamier, and packed with more flavor than you thought possible. It’s the perfect one-pot wonder for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Why This Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Unlike other recipes that can be thin or bland, this version focuses on building deep, savory flavors at every step. The secret is in the creamy base and the way the gnocchi plump up to become tender, dumpling-like bites. It’s a complete meal in one pot, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a family-friendly dish that even the pickiest eaters will love. If you’re a fan of comforting pasta dishes, you might also love our Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings
The magic of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final, delicious result.
For the Creamy Soup Base
- Butter & Olive Oil: The combination provides a rich flavor base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Onion, Carrots, Celery (Mirepoix): This classic trio builds an aromatic and savory foundation.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is our thickening agent, creating a velvety texture.
- Chicken Broth: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor.
- Heavy Cream: The key to an ultra-rich and creamy soup.
For the Hearty Filling
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cooked and shredded, they provide the protein backbone of the dish.
- Potato Gnocchi: The star of the show! These act as our delicious, tender dumplings. Store-bought is perfectly fine.
- Fresh Spinach: Wilts down beautifully, adding color, nutrients, and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Seasoning: A simple mix of salt, black pepper, and dried thyme is all you need.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of comfort. The process is straightforward and rewarding.
Prep Your Ingredients
Begin by dicing your onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and shred your cooked chicken. Having everything ready to go (a process called ‘mise en place’) makes cooking smooth and stress-free.
Build the Flavor Base
In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and is essential for a thick, creamy soup.
Simmer and Thicken
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat, then stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Gnocchi Dumplings
Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package directions, typically about 3-4 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they are done. Be careful not to overcook them. During the last minute of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until it has wilted. For another hearty one-pot meal, try our Beef and Macaroni Soup.
Tips for the Best Dumplings
To ensure your Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings are perfect every time, keep these tips in mind. The gnocchi are the star, so treat them right!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Use a large enough pot to give the gnocchi room to cook evenly.
- Simmer Gently: A rolling boil can break apart the gnocchi. Maintain a gentle, steady simmer while they cook.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving. You may need to add a bit more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to make it your own with these suggestions.
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced cremini mushrooms with the mirepoix for an extra layer of earthy flavor.
- Use Kale Instead of Spinach: If you prefer a heartier green, chopped kale is a great substitute.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a welcome touch of warmth. For a different kind of spice, check out our Thai Chicken Coconut Curry.
Storing and Reheating
This soup is almost better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. The gnocchi will absorb some of the liquid, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to return it to its original consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter or olive oil and use a full-fat, unsweetened coconut cream or a cashew cream in place of the heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Simply shred about 3 cups of chicken and add it to the soup as directed.
The key is to not overcook them. Add the gnocchi at the very end and simmer just until they float to the top, which usually only takes 3-4 minutes. They will continue to soften as they sit in the hot soup.
The recipe uses a roux (a mixture of fat and flour) to naturally thicken the soup. If you want it even thicker, you can make a small slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water and slowly stir it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
Shelf-stable potato gnocchi found in the pasta aisle works wonderfully and is very convenient. Refrigerated gnocchi is also an excellent choice. Both will give you those perfect, pillowy dumplings.
More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love
Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Add the fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking and stir until it has just wilted. Serve immediately.
Notes
Tip 2: Don't boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can cause it to curdle. A gentle simmer is all you need.
Tip 3: Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Share Your Creations!
We are thrilled for you to try this amazing Chicken and Gnocchi Dumplings recipe. It’s a true comfort food classic that we know you’ll love. If you make it, please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on Pinterest!
