Name: Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 pound potato gnocchi; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or 1 tablespoon fresh); 1 bay leaf (optional)

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Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cozy and comforting dish packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and winter vegetables all wrapped in a velvety, lemon-scented broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and nourishing, yet bright and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup combines the richness of a creamy base with the light, fresh zing of lemon, making it both indulgent and refreshing. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients, ready in under an hour, and versatile enough to please the whole family. The gnocchi add a delightful texture, while the lemon brings a brightness that balances out the creaminess beautifully.

Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrots, diced
Celery, diced
Cooked shredded chicken (or rotisserie)
Potato gnocchi
Chicken broth
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Fresh spinach or kale
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Thyme (dried or fresh)
Bay leaf (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in garlic, thyme, and a bay leaf (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the gnocchi and let them cook according to package directions (usually 3–5 minutes, until they float).
Add shredded chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Add spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove bay leaf before serving, and garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Add more vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, peas, or diced zucchini for added texture and nutrients.
Use turkey: Swap the chicken for leftover turkey for a post-holiday version.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your broth and cream are certified gluten-free.
Add a kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
This soup is not ideal for freezing, as the gnocchi can become mushy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, you can simmer raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth until cooked through, then shred and return to the soup before adding cream and lemon.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, make it a day in advance and reheat before serving. Add lemon juice and spinach right before serving for the freshest taste.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi are most common, but refrigerated or homemade gnocchi also work well.

How do I prevent the soup from curdling?

Add the lemon juice after reducing the heat and stirring in the cream. Avoid boiling after adding dairy and lemon.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or beans for protein.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple garlic toast.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

It’s best eaten fresh. If you plan to freeze, cook and store the gnocchi separately to avoid sogginess.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds richness and flavor.

How can I thicken the soup more?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water before adding cream.

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon?

Fresh lemon juice and zest are strongly recommended for the best flavor, but a very small amount of lemon extract can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food for colder months. It’s hearty yet bright, satisfying yet light, and packed with textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a cozy solo dinner, this soup is a perfect addition to your winter recipe lineup.

Chef MARTHA