Sometimes the best meals are the ones that wrap you in comfort without weighing you down. This low calorie chicken gnocchi soup is exactly that kind of dish—rich in flavor, cozy in texture, and surprisingly light on calories. It’s the kind of bowl you reach for after a long day, when all you want is something soothing and a little bit special.
There was one chilly evening, not too long ago, when I pulled this soup together after fumbling with a few other recipes that didn’t quite hit the mark. I remember the kitchen filling up with the scent of garlic and herbs while I chopped carrots and celery, the kind of smell that makes you pause and breathe in a little deeper. The gnocchi puffed up just right, soft and pillowy, floating like little clouds in the broth. I almost forgot about the time because I got distracted by how the steam fogged up my glasses, and I had to wipe them off before I could see the pot clearly again. That moment of waiting, with the soup simmering gently, was oddly calming—and made me appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to feel like a warm hug.
- It strikes a nice balance between hearty and light, so you don’t feel bogged down.
- The gnocchi adds a comforting texture that’s a fun change from regular noodles or rice.
- Using almond milk keeps it creamy but not heavy, though it means the soup is a little less rich than a cream-based version.
- It’s quick enough for a weeknight but still feels like you’re treating yourself.
If you’re worried about the gnocchi sticking or the soup tasting too watery, don’t be. A gentle stir here and there keeps everything cozy, and the herbs carry the flavor well enough to keep it interesting without any fuss.
Print
Low Calorie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A comforting and light chicken gnocchi soup packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and pillowy gnocchi, perfect for a cozy meal without the extra calories.
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 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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 chicken, dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir to combine.
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, about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and stir well. Heat through but do not boil.
Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Don’t stress about having fancy equipment—just a sturdy pot will do the trick. I sometimes toss in a handful of frozen peas or swap the spinach for kale depending on what’s in the fridge, though I haven’t tested these tweaks enough to say they’re foolproof. Pair this soup with a simple green salad or some crusty bread if you want a bit of crunch alongside the soft gnocchi.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: You can prep the broth and veggies in advance, but add the gnocchi just before serving to keep them from getting mushy.
Q: What if I don’t have almond milk?
A: Regular milk or a light cream works too, just watch the temperature so it doesn’t curdle.
Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
A: Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut that tastes great.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Freezing with gnocchi isn’t ideal since it changes texture, so it’s best to freeze the soup base separately if needed.
Ready to cozy up with a bowl of this delicious low calorie chicken gnocchi soup? Scroll down, save it, and get cooking—your next comforting meal is just a pot away.