Some nights just call for something soothing, yet light enough not to weigh you down. That’s where this low calorie chicken gnocchi soup steps in, striking a balance between comfort and simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that settles in your belly and makes you feel cared for, even after a long day.
I remember the last time I made this soup, the kitchen was a bit chaotic—kids running around, a phone buzzing somewhere nearby, and me trying to juggle timing. I wasn’t quite sure how the gnocchi would hold up in the broth, but as the aromas of garlic and thyme filled the air, everything else faded. The steam rising from the pot caught my attention, and when I finally ladled a bowl, I noticed how the spinach wilted just right, and the chicken was tender but not dry. It wasn’t perfect—I might have added a pinch too much pepper—but that little imperfection made it homey, real. I ended up eating it while perched on the couch, notebook forgotten on the table next to me, just savoring the quiet moment.
- Brings together wholesome ingredients in a light broth that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Quick to prepare, making it a solid choice for when time is tight.
- It’s simple—and sometimes that’s exactly what you need, rather than a complex dish.
- Comforting textures from tender chicken and soft gnocchi—easy to enjoy without feeling heavy.
- Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition, but you can always swap it out if you’re out of greens.
If you’re worried about keeping it light but satisfying, this soup hits that spot without fuss. It’s not fancy, but it’s the kind of meal you can count on when you want something warm and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Low Calorie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A light and comforting chicken gnocchi soup made with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that’s low in calories but high in taste.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
6 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
4 cups fresh baby spinach
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Add shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface.
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and stir to combine. Heat through but do not boil.
Remove from heat and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Don’t stress about special equipment here—just a good-sized pot will do. Serve it with a crusty piece of bread if you’re feeling indulgent, or a simple salad if you want to keep things clean. Sometimes, I toss in a few extra herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan, but honestly, it’s great just as it is. You could swap the spinach for kale or even some frozen peas if that’s what’s on hand. And for a creamier texture, a splash of almond milk rounds it out nicely, but feel free to experiment.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken? Absolutely. This soup is perfect for using up cooked chicken, so it saves time and reduces waste.
Is this soup freezer-friendly? The gnocchi can get a bit mushy after freezing, so it’s best to store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, the recipe uses almond milk, so it’s naturally dairy-free and light.
What if I don’t have gnocchi? You could substitute with small pasta or even rice, but it’ll change the texture a bit.
When the evening winds down and you want something to soothe and satisfy without weighing you down, this soup is ready to step in. Give it a try next time you need a little comfort in a bowl.