Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly creamy, comforting, and remarkably flavorful chicken gnocchi soup. It’s the quintessential meal to embrace during the crisp autumn and cold winter months, offering warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Imagine pillowy soft potato gnocchi, succulent shredded chicken, and a medley of tender vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. What makes this recipe truly special is its adaptability; it’s completely gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an inclusive and delicious option for the entire family, regardless of dietary preferences. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, designed to nourish your body and soul.

A Cozy Bowl for Chilly Days: The Ultimate Comfort Food

As the temperatures dip and we officially enter “sweater weather,” there’s truly nothing quite as comforting and soul-satisfying as a steaming bowl of homemade soup. It’s a culinary embrace that warms you from the inside out, making even the dreariest days feel brighter. Whether your preference leans towards a luxurious creamy mushroom soup, a sophisticated French onion soup with its rich, caramelized flavors, or a vibrant carrot turmeric soup bursting with nutrients, the power of a warm, flavorful broth to uplift spirits is undeniable.

This particular chicken gnocchi soup recipe takes comfort to an entirely new level. Often hailed as a delicious Olive Garden copycat, it captures all the beloved flavors and textures of the restaurant favorite, but with the added benefit of being entirely gluten-free and dairy-free. Imagine fork-tender shredded chicken and a generous assortment of garden vegetables – carrots, celery, and spinach – all simmered patiently until perfectly tender. Then, add in those irresistibly soft, pillowy potato gnocchi, transforming the hearty broth into a truly substantial and satisfying meal. Each spoonful is a blend of creamy richness and savory depth, designed to banish the chill and provide a deeply comforting experience perfect for fall and winter evenings.

Why This Gluten-Free Chicken Gnocchi Soup Will Become Your Favorite

This chicken gnocchi soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and widespread appeal. Here’s why this dish is destined to become a staple in your meal rotation:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You don’t need to visit specialty stores for exotic items. Every ingredient for this satisfying gluten-free chicken gnocchi soup can be found at your local grocery store. We’re talking about basic pantry staples and fresh produce that come together to create something truly extraordinary without any fuss or expensive additions.
• Effortless & Enjoyable to Make: Despite its rich flavor and hearty texture, preparing this cozy chicken and gnocchi soup requires surprisingly little hands-on effort. Much of the cooking time is spent allowing the ingredients to simmer gently on the stove, infusing the broth with deep, complex flavors. This means you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without being chained to the kitchen.
• Completely Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its commitment to being 100% gluten-free and dairy-free. This makes it a fantastic option for individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, or lactose intolerance, allowing everyone to savor a creamy, delicious soup without any digestive discomfort or compromise on taste.
• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: This soup boasts a robust and well-rounded flavor that will delight your palate. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic vegetables, a hint of lemon, and earthy herbs creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. The creamy base, achieved with dairy-free alternatives, ensures a luxurious mouthfeel that rivals its traditional counterparts.
• A Family Favorite: With its tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and comforting broth, this soup is a guaranteed hit with all ages. It’s hearty enough for adults and gentle enough for kids, making it an ideal choice for family dinners on a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend lunch.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Before you begin crafting this delightful soup, let’s take a quick glance at the core ingredients. Below is a visual overview to help you gather everything you’ll need, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cooking process. Each component plays a vital role in creating the signature creamy texture and rich flavor of this chicken gnocchi soup. For precise measurements and quantities, please refer to the detailed printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.

Key Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for Dietary Needs

This recipe is designed to be flexible, allowing for various dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Here are some detailed notes and substitution ideas to help you customize your perfect bowl of chicken gnocchi soup:

• Oil: I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor profile that complements the vegetables and broth beautifully. However, if you prefer a more neutral taste or have it on hand, any standard vegetable oil such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or even avocado oil will work just as well for sautéing the aromatics.
• Vegetables: The classic mirepoix of carrots, celery, and onions forms the flavorful foundation of this soup, alongside fresh garlic and vibrant spinach. This combination provides a balanced taste and essential nutrients. Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! You can easily substitute or add other quick-cooking veggies like chopped broccoli florets, cauliflower, kale, mushrooms, or even bell peppers. Just be mindful of cooking times; heartier vegetables might need a few extra minutes to soften.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire soup, adding a much-needed zesty counterpoint to the creamy richness. I highly recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice over bottled for the most vibrant and authentic flavor. It makes a noticeable difference!
• Chicken Broth: The quality of your broth significantly impacts the final taste of the soup. You can use either chicken broth or chicken stock. Both provide a savory base, but stock tends to be richer. If you’re out of chicken broth or prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth or vegetable stock is an excellent alternative that won’t compromise on flavor, especially when seasoned well.
• Chicken: For maximum flavor and tenderness, I’ve chosen a mix of bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks. Cooking them directly in the broth infuses the entire soup with incredible depth. Once cooked, the meat easily shreds, leaving you with moist, tender pieces. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can also be used; simply reduce the simmering time slightly until cooked through, then shred. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker preparation, adding it in when you return the shredded chicken to the pot.
• Gnocchi: These delightful Italian potato dumplings are the star of this soup, offering a wonderfully soft and chewy texture. To keep this recipe strictly gluten-free, it’s crucial to use gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in most grocery stores. If you do not have Celiac disease or are not gluten-intolerant, feel free to use regular gnocchi instead. They typically cook very quickly, so add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Achieving that classic creamy, slightly salty parmesan flavor in a dairy-free soup is easy with dairy-free Parmesan cheese. Many excellent plant-based options are available that melt beautifully and provide a similar umami kick. For those without lactose intolerance, regular grated Parmesan cheese can be used to achieve the same rich flavor and creamy texture.
• Cream: To maintain the dairy-free integrity of this recipe while still delivering that luscious, creamy consistency, I recommend using a good quality dairy-free heavy cream. Options like cashew cream, full-fat coconut milk (canned, not from a carton, for richness), or oat-based heavy cream alternatives work wonderfully. If dairy is not an issue for you, traditional heavy cream will provide an incredibly rich and indulgent soup.
• Flour: This recipe utilizes a small amount of flour to create a light roux, which thickens the soup and gives it its signature creamy body. For a reliable gluten-free result, I highly recommend a good-quality gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Look for blends primarily made from lighter flours and starches (like rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch) rather than heavier, denser flours like garbanzo bean flour, which can impart an undesirable taste and texture. If gluten is not a concern, regular all-purpose flour can be used in the same quantity.
• Herbs: Bay leaves and fresh thyme sprigs are essential for infusing the soup with a deep, earthy aroma and classic flavor. These herbs are simmered with the broth and chicken, allowing their flavors to fully develop. You can also experiment with other complementary herbs such as fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley added at the end for a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating this delicious and comforting chicken gnocchi soup is a straightforward process, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly creamy, flavorful, and hearty bowl every time:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, stirring occasionally. Cook these foundational vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they have softened considerably and just begin to take on a golden hue. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor base. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for just one more minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.

Step 2: Create a Roux with Gluten-Free Flour
Once your vegetables are softened, sprinkle the gluten-free 1:1 flour evenly over them. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk, ensuring the flour coats all the vegetables and cooks into the oil. Cook this mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes over low heat. This step is vital to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth, lump-free base for your creamy soup. This forms what’s known as a roux, which will thicken your soup.

Step 3: Add Liquids, Seasonings & Chicken, Then Simmer
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, a little at a time, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent any lumps from forming. Once the broth is incorporated, add the fresh lemon juice, bay leaves, fresh thyme sprigs, and salt. Finally, carefully place your chicken pieces (thighs and/or drumsticks) into the pot. Bring the entire mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This extended simmering time allows the chicken to cook thoroughly, and all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and aromatic broth.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly so it’s comfortable to handle. Once cool enough, shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones and skin. This ensures every spoonful of soup has delicious, tender chicken. Return all the shredded chicken back into the simmering soup, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Achieve Creaminess with Dairy-Free Additions
Now it’s time to add the luxurious creamy element. Stir in the dairy-free heavy cream and the shredded dairy-free Parmesan cheese. Continue to mix gently until the cheese has fully melted into the broth and the soup has transformed into a rich, velvety, and creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary; this is where the soup truly takes on its comforting, decadent quality.

Step 6: Incorporate Fresh Spinach
To add a touch of freshness and vibrant color, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for just 2 to 3 minutes, or until the leaves have wilted but still retain their bright green hue. Overcooking spinach can make it lose its texture and color, so keep a close eye on it. This final vegetable addition brings a lovely balance to the richness of the soup.

Step 7: Cook the Gnocchi
Finally, stir in the gluten-free potato gnocchi. These delightful dumplings cook very quickly. Allow them to simmer gently in the soup for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they become tender and float to the surface. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy. Once tender, your magnificent chicken gnocchi soup is almost ready!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve Immediately
Once the gnocchi are cooked, ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup generously into individual serving bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and aroma, garnish each bowl with a few sprigs of fresh thyme. A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving will brighten the flavors even further, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick. Serve hot and enjoy this incredibly comforting and satisfying meal!

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for Your Gnocchi Soup

To ensure your chicken gnocchi soup is always a success, and to make the most out of your cooking experience, here are some invaluable tips and serving ideas:

• Swap Gnocchi for Other Pasta: While gnocchi are wonderfully unique, if you don’t have them on hand or prefer a different texture, you can absolutely use gluten-free pasta instead. Small shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well. However, to prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft and absorbing too much broth, I highly recommend cooking the pasta separately according to package instructions in a different pot. Once the chicken soup is fully prepared and ready to serve, stir in the freshly cooked pasta just before ladling it into bowls.
• Storing Leftovers: This soup makes fantastic leftovers! To store, allow any remaining chicken and gnocchi soup to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. It’s important to note that the soup will likely thicken significantly as it cools and sits, especially due to the gluten-free flour and gnocchi. When reheating, you might need to stir in 1-2 tablespoons of water, milk, or extra broth to achieve your desired consistency.
• Freezing Instructions (Gnocchi Separate): For longer storage, this soup can be frozen! However, it’s best to freeze the soup *without* the gnocchi, as they can become mushy or alter in texture when thawed and reheated. Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the gnocchi. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat gently on the stovetop, and then add fresh, uncooked gnocchi to the simmering soup, cooking them until tender as per the recipe.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare a few components of this soup in advance to cut down on prep time on a busy day. Dice your carrots, celery, and onions, and mince your garlic up to a day or two ahead and store them in the refrigerator. You can also cook and shred your chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated. This will significantly streamline the cooking process when you’re ready to make the soup.
• Serving Suggestions: This hearty chicken gnocchi soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple accompaniments. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or with some warm, crusty gluten-free bread for dipping into the rich broth. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Explore More Delicious Gnocchi Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the pillowy texture of gnocchi, you’re in luck! There are many incredible ways to enjoy these versatile potato dumplings. Here are some other favorite gluten-free and dairy-free gnocchi recipes you’ll definitely want to try:

• 10-Minute Creamy Pesto Gnocchi (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Sweet Potato Gnocchi (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Pumpkin Gnocchi (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Other Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Soups You’ll Adore

If you’re looking for more comforting and healthy soup options that cater to gluten-free and dairy-free dietary needs, check out these flavorful recipes from our collection:

• Chicken Tortellini Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chicken Noodle Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• French Onion Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Matzo Ball Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

More Delicious Gluten-Free Chicken Recipes to Try

Beyond soups, chicken is a wonderfully versatile protein for gluten-free cooking. Explore these other fantastic chicken dishes that are both flavorful and accommodating to dietary restrictions:

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d absolutely love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or share your thoughts in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always greatly appreciated and helps me improve! For more delicious inspiration, be sure to explore my entire Recipe Index for all the incredible recipes on the blog. You can also connect with me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Don’t miss out on fresh recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week – sign up for my Email List today!

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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

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• Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
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  Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
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  Diet: Gluten Free, Dairy Free

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Description

This irresistibly creamy, comforting, and deeply flavorful chicken gnocchi soup is the ideal meal to warm you up during the colder months. Featuring tender, shredded chicken, soft pillowy gluten-free gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this wholesome soup is not only delicious but also entirely gluten-free and dairy-free. It’s a family-friendly Olive Garden copycat recipe that everyone will adore!

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 4 cups chicken broth or stock
• 1 pound bone-in chicken parts (thighs and/or drumsticks for best flavor)
• 1 cup gluten-free potato gnocchi
• 1 ounce dairy-free Parmesan cheese, shredded (or regular if not dairy-free)
• 1/3 cup dairy-free heavy cream (or regular heavy cream if not dairy-free)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour blend (or regular all-purpose flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 bay leaves
• 5–6 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (optional, to taste)

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Instructions

1. Sauté Veggies: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and begin to turn golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Gluten-Free Flour: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of gluten-free 1:1 flour blend over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes over low heat to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth roux.
3. Add Broth, Juice, Seasonings & Chicken: Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth or stock, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent lumps. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 2 bay leaves, 5-6 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Place the 1 pound of chicken parts into the pot.
4. Simmer Ingredients: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to deeply develop.
5. Shred Chicken Meat: Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly on a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
6. Mix in Cream & Cheese: Stir in 1/3 cup of dairy-free heavy cream and 1 ounce of shredded dairy-free Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup takes on a rich, creamy texture.
7. Add Spinach: Add 1 cup of fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the leaves wilt but remain bright green.
8. Add Gnocchi: Stir in 1 cup of gluten-free potato gnocchi. Let them cook through for about 3-5 minutes, or until tender and they float to the surface.
9. Garnish & Serve: Divide the creamy chicken gnocchi soup evenly between bowls. Garnish with additional fresh thyme sprigs (optional), a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper before serving hot. Enjoy!

Notes

Oil: While extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor, vegetable oil (such as canola, sunflower, or avocado oil) can be used as a neutral alternative.

Vegetables: Feel free to customize! Beyond carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and spinach, you can add or substitute with broccoli, cauliflower, kale, or bell peppers. Adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables.

Lemon Juice: For the freshest and brightest flavor, always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Chicken Broth: Both chicken broth and chicken stock work well. For a vegetarian version or if you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or stock can be used.

Chicken: A mix of bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks provides the best flavor and moisture. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can also be used; adjust simmering time accordingly.

Gnocchi: To keep this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free potato gnocchi. Regular gnocchi can be used if gluten is not a concern. Cook just until tender to avoid a mushy texture.

Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free soup, dairy-free Parmesan cheese is recommended. If dairy is tolerated, regular Parmesan cheese will deliver a classic flavor.

Cream: Use dairy-free heavy cream for a dairy-free recipe. Good alternatives include full-fat canned coconut milk or oat-based heavy cream. Regular heavy cream can be used for a dairy option.

Flour: A good-quality gluten-free 1:1 flour blend (made from lighter flours/starches) is ideal for thickening. Avoid blends with heavy flours like garbanzo bean flour. Regular all-purpose flour works if not gluten-intolerant.

Herbs: Bay leaves and fresh thyme are key for flavor. Other complementary herbs like rosemary or fresh parsley (added at the end) can also be used.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The soup will thicken; add a splash of water or broth when reheating to thin it out.

Freezing: Freeze the soup *without* the gnocchi. Cook gnocchi fresh when reheating thawed soup for best texture.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 50 mins
• Category: Main Dishes, Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired