Nothing says fall quite like a big pot of soup simmering on the stove, and this flavor-packed chicken and gnocchi soup is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory broth in every bite. It’s hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own yet cozy enough to make you want to curl up with a blanket and enjoy a second bowl. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight, cooking for football fans, or looking for something comforting on a cool fall evening, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp. Butter
  • 1 Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 Large Carrots, diced small
  • 2 Celery Sticks, diced small
  • 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp. Tomato Paste
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 4 – 5 cups Chicken Stock, depending on consistency preference
  • 1/4 tsp. Dried Thyme
  • 1 tsp. Dry English Mustard Powder
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, diced small (about 1 pound)
  • 2 cups Half-and-Half
  • 1 cup Fresh Spinach
  • 12 oz. Gnocchi
  • 4 oz. Sharp Cheddar, shredded
  • Salt + Pepper, to taste
  • Chopped Chives, optional for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan, optional for garnish

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, or until fragrant.

Add the tomato paste and flour to the pot. Stir to combine and continue to cook for about 2 minutes.

While continually stirring, add the chicken broth, thyme, dry English mustard, bay leaf, and chicken breast chunks. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked, about 10 – 12 minutes. Use an instant thermometer to test and make sure the chicken has reached 165F.

Add the half-and-half and bring back to a low simmer. Next add the spinach, gnocchi, and simmer the amount of time that is listed on the packaged directions.

Taste, and season with salt + pepper to your preference. Serve immediately with cheddar, chives, and parmesan as a garnish.

Jessica Bentley has over 10 years of experience sharing recipes and cooking tips with a goal to make everyone feel comfortable in their own kitchen and eat a more colorful plate. You can follow her on all social media platforms and via her website SliceOfJess.com.