As the chill of autumn sets in, I find myself reaching for recipes that wrap around me like a cozy blanket, and this Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just that! Picture this: a creamy, rich broth bubbling on the stove, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs. The heartiness of tender gnocchi combined with savory rotisserie chicken creates a dish that's not just a meal but a warm embrace in a bowl.

A busy day or a quick weeknight dinner? No problem! This soup comes together in a flash, proving that comfort food can be both simple and satisfying. Plus, it's incredibly versatile; whether you stick with the classic chicken or swap in chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, it's bound to please everyone at the table. So grab your favorite soup pot, and let's dive into a recipe that promises to make chilly evenings bright and delicious!

Why Love Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Comforting, Creamy Delight: The soup features a rich, buttery broth that invites you in for a cozy experience.
Quick and Simple: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile Options: You can easily customize your soup with various proteins or gluten-free alternatives, making it suitable for any dietary preference.
Hearty and Filling: Each spoonful brings hearty gnocchi paired with savory rotisserie chicken, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Aromatic Goodness: The delightful scent of garlic and thyme enhances your cooking experience, enticing everyone to gather for a warm meal.
Perfect with Bread: Serve it alongside crusty Italian bread for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Rotisserie Chicken - Adds delicious flavor and convenience; great for quick meals.
• Gnocchi - Provides that hearty texture; can substitute with small pasta or cauliflower for low-carb.
• Butter & Olive Oil - Used for sautéing; they bring richness to the broth.
• Onion, Carrots, Celery - Essential mirepoix for depth; chop uniformly for even cooking.
• Garlic - Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is always ideal.
• White Wine - Enhances flavor depth; substitute with extra chicken stock if you prefer no alcohol.

For Thickening & Creaminess
• Flour - Essential for thickening the soup; use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
• Chicken Stock - The main liquid that forms your soup's body; swap for vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
• Half-and-Half - Adds a creamy texture; can be replaced with a mix of whole milk and heavy cream or plant-based milk with cornstarch.

For Seasoning & Finish
• Thyme & Italian Seasoning - Vital for infusing flavor; fresh herbs will enhance taste even more.
• Parmesan Cheese - Brings umami and richness; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Fresh Spinach - Adds a pop of color and nutrients; kale works as a great substitute.
• Nutmeg - A warm touch for seasoning, perfectly complements the soup.

This Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a go-to recipe for cozy nights!

How to Make Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Heat the Oils: In a large pot, warm the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter has melted and the foaming subsides. This will create a rich base for your soup.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté until they are softened and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will start to fill with that delicious aroma!
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer until the wine has mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes; this will help thicken your soup.
Whisk in Stock: Gradually pour in the chicken stock, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Add Creaminess: Stir in the half-and-half, dried thyme, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently to avoid boiling for about 3-5 minutes.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and simmer until they are tender and floating, usually 3-5 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy!
Finishing Touches: Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Allow these to heat through for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Season to Taste: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with nutmeg, salt, and pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper, alongside a slice of crusty Italian bread for the perfect ending!

Optional: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lovely touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can shred the rotisserie chicken and refrigerate it, preserving its moistness. When you're ready to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables and follow the recipe from step 3 onward. If you prefer, you can also combine all the ingredients except the gnocchi and freeze the mixture for up to 3 months; just add the gnocchi fresh when cooking to maintain their delightful texture. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

For a delightful dining experience that wraps around you like a cozy hug, consider these perfect pairings.

Crusty Italian Bread: The ultimate companion, it soaks up the creamy broth and adds satisfying texture to every bite.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy and buttery, they echo the garlic flavors in the soup while offering a fun, dippable twist.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and enhances your meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Their snap contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the broth, adding a nutritious element to your plate.
Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy and cheesy, these make for a fun garnish that intensifies the savory umami of your soup.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A crisp white wine complements the soup perfectly, bringing a refreshing lift to the meal.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat offers a comforting end to the meal, contrasting with the savory soup.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: As a cozy drink option, it enhances the fall flavors and warms you from the inside out!

Expert Tips for Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for a high-quality rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. Avoid dry or bland options to enhance your soup experience.

• Watch the Flour: When adding flour, ensure it's evenly mixed before adding stock to prevent lumps. This helps achieve creamy consistency in your Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

• Simmer with Care: Let the soup simmer gently after adding cream; boiling can cause curdling. Maintaining a low simmer ensures a velvety texture.

• Perfect Gnocchi: Don't overcook the gnocchi; keep an eye on them! Remove them from heat as soon as they float to ensure they're tender but not mushy.

• Adjust for Thickness: If your soup is too thick, whisk in additional stock or water while reheating. This keeps it creamy and delightful without losing flavor.

• Season Gradually: Taste your soup as you season. Start with a pinch of nutmeg and salt, then adjust based on your preference for a balanced flavor.

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring these delightful twists that cater to your tastes and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Option: Replace rotisserie chicken with canned chickpeas for a protein-rich, plant-based alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Swap traditional gnocchi for gluten-free versions or small pasta like rice or quinoa to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Low-Carb Delight: Use cauliflower florets instead of gnocchi for a light and veggie-packed version that still satisfies your craving for warmth.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute half-and-half with a creamy coconut milk or almond milk blend, whisked with cornstarch for that luscious texture.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add chopped zucchini or bell peppers to the sauté step for extra vitamins and a pop of color that enhances each bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes during cooking for a mild heat that balances the creaminess, making every spoonful exciting.
Umami Punch: Toss in a dash of soy sauce or tamari when adding the chicken stock for an unexpected layer of depth and richness.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by swapping thyme for fresh basil or rosemary, bringing in a whole new flavor profile that brightens the broth.

With these variations, your Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup will remain a cozy favorite, adaptable to any palate or occasion!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock to restore consistency.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen, adding extra broth as needed.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, do so gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
Quality Check: If freezing, note that the gnocchi may change texture after thawing; they might become softer. Enjoying the soup fresh is ideal, but it'll still taste delightful!

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! When choosing a rotisserie chicken, go for one that has a golden-brown skin and isn't overly greasy-this usually indicates it's juicy inside. Avoid chickens with any dark spots or dry sections, as these can affect both flavor and texture in your soup!

How do I store leftover gnocchi soup?
Very easy! Store your Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, place it in a pot over medium heat and stir in a splash of water or stock to help maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup, carefully pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and seal tightly. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen-just remember to add extra chicken stock or broth to restore creaminess!

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Don't worry; this happens sometimes! If your soup has thickened too much, simply reheat it slowly over medium-low heat and add in a little water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir frequently to avoid scorching-keeping an eye on it will help achieve that perfect creamy texture you love!

Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, absolutely! To make your Easy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also find gluten-free chicken stock to use as a base. It's a wonderful, cozy meal option for those with dietary restrictions!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the rotisserie chicken for canned chickpeas or cooked lentils for protein. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and don't forget to keep the gnocchi or opt for low-carb cauliflower. It's just as comforting with these swaps, and I think everyone will love it!