If you are searching for a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, this Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting bowl of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a bright hit of lemon, all swimming in a luscious, creamy broth. This soup perfectly balances richness and freshness, making it an irresistible dinner option when the cold weather sets in. I’ve made it countless times and trust me, this Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe never fails to brighten up even the bleakest winter days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to making this soup a standout. Each element brings something special to this dish — from the tender chicken adding protein to the gnocchi creating that comforting, chewy texture. Fresh herbs and lemon infuse it with bright, aromatic notes, while the spinach offers color and nutrients that make every spoonful feel nourishing.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing, giving the soup a smooth, savory base.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: The heart of the soup, tender and satisfying.
- Medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves: Gives a wonderful fragrant punch.
- Dried thyme and rosemary: Herbs that bring warmth and earthiness to the broth.
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
- Whole milk or heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture of the soup.
- Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that turn this into a truly indulgent comfort food.
- Fresh spinach or kale: Adds vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice: The secret ingredient that brightens the soup and lifts the rich creaminess.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For an extra layer of savory richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A colorful garnish that adds a fresh finish.
- Lemon wedges: Optional for an extra citrus burst when serving.
- Crusty bread: The perfect companion to soak up every last bit of this delicious soup.
How to Make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast or thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and no longer pink inside, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep those juices locked in.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and slightly sweet. Add the minced garlic along with thyme and rosemary, letting the fragrant herbs bloom in the fat for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor for your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer and allow the flavors to mingle for 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice the fragrant aroma starts to fill your kitchen—the sign that the soup is coming alive!
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi according to the package directions—usually just a few minutes until they float to the surface. Their soft, pillow-like texture is one of the highlights of this Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Cooking them directly in the broth also helps soak up all that delicious flavor.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Stir in the milk or heavy cream and bring the soup gently back to a simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt and the chicken warm up fully, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, fold in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the richness. For an optional decadent touch, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some extra grated Parmesan cheese elevates the presentation beautifully. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites everyone to add a fresh burst of citrus right before diving in, keeping the flavors lively and fresh.
Side Dishes
Nothing complements this soup better than a warm slice of crusty bread or a buttery baguette. The bread’s crunch and chewiness offer the perfect contrast to the creamy soup, making every bite satisfyingly complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel. For a festive touch, drizzle a little olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes on top. You can also serve it with a small salad for an added freshness that balances the creaminess. This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is versatile and elegant enough to impress guests without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to meld, making your second bowl just as satisfying as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup, but keep in mind that gnocchi sometimes changes texture after freezing. If you plan to freeze, it might be best to add the gnocchi fresh when reheating or keep the soup and gnocchi separate before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. If you froze the gnocchi separately, simply cook or reheat them fresh and add to the warmed soup just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay tender, which works wonderfully in this Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the milk or cream for coconut milk or a plant-based milk of your choice, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives or skip the cheese.
Can I prepare the soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare most of the soup ahead of time but wait to add the gnocchi and spinach until you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the gnocchi from becoming mushy.
What’s the best type of gnocchi to use?
Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for convenience, but homemade gnocchi will give you a more tender and pillowy result if you have the time.
How can I make this soup more tangy?
Increase the amount of lemon juice or add a little lemon vinegar to brighten the flavors even further. Just add gradually and taste as you go to keep the balance just right.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a soup that manages to be both soothing and vibrant, and this Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe nails it every time. I encourage you to try making it on your next cold day—you’ll quickly discover why it’s become a favorite in so many kitchens. Embrace the heartwarming flavors and let this soup fill your home with comfort and joy.
Print
Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a bright burst of lemon. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a creamy broth, it’s perfect for cozy winter meals, offering a delightful balance of richness and freshness.
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Starches
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Liquids and Fats
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Seasonings and Others
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Build the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Let the broth simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the milk or heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
- Add Lemon and Cheese: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice to infuse fresh, bright flavors. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess, if using.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add more lemon juice if a stronger citrus flavor is desired.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a lemon wedge on the side for an added citrus burst.
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy this creamy, lemony comfort soup hot.
Notes
- Use either chicken breast or thighs depending on preference; thighs will offer a richer flavor.
- Fresh herbs are recommended for best flavor but dried can be used as substitutes.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought for convenience or homemade for a fresher touch.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for more or less acidity.
- For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk and omit Parmesan cheese.
- Spinach can be swapped with kale or other leafy greens as preferred.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy broth.
