Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. This creamy soup is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a comforting dish to share with family and friends, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
There’s something truly special about this Chicken Gnocchi Soup that keeps you coming back for more. The rich, creamy base combined with the soft chewiness of the gnocchi gives this soup a unique texture that is simply irresistible. Plus, it is loaded with nutritious ingredients, ensuring it is a well-balanced dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s fully customizable, which means you can adjust it to fit your own taste preferences, making it as satisfying as you like. Above all, the steps are straightforward, so you can have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.
Ingredients about Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To create this delightful Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients are easy to find and together they create a wonderfully satisfying meal that fills your home with delicious aromas.
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup Directions
Creating this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to whip up a comforting bowl of goodness:
- Heat the oil: Start by heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This oil will add flavor and help in the sautéing process.
- Sauté the vegetables: Next, add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Add garlic: Once your veggies are softened, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds a burst of flavor and will give your soup its delicious aroma.
- Incorporate chicken broth: Now, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This forms the base of your soup and enriches it with natural flavors.
- Cook the gnocchi: Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface – this usually takes just a few minutes.
- Stir in the chicken and cream: Add the cooked, shredded chicken and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined. The cream will create a luscious texture that makes each spoonful decadent.
- Add spinach and seasonings: Toss in the fresh spinach and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes until the spinach wilts. This will not only add a pop of color but also boost the nutrition of your soup.
- Season to taste: Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust it to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve it up: Serve your Chicken Gnocchi Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delightful bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup that is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup
When it comes to serving Chicken Gnocchi Soup, there are plenty of delightful ways to present this dish. You can serve it in warm bowls, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a bit of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a side salad for a complete meal. If you’re having guests over, consider bringing the pot to the table for a family-style serving. This not only creates a cozy atmosphere but also allows everyone to help themselves to seconds.
Another idea is to set out a few garnishes on the table, such as extra cheese, chopped chives, or even a drizzle of olive oil. This invites everyone to customize their bowls, making the meal even more enjoyable.
Expert Tips: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Cooking is both an art and a science, and a few expert tips can enhance your Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your soup heavily relies on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, high-quality chicken breast and homemade or low-sodium broth can make a big difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi only needs a few minutes to cook. Removing them from heat once they float will give you the perfect texture instead of overcooked and mushy pieces.
- Cream Substitutes: If you’re looking to lighten this dish up a bit, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based milk. Just remember that it may slightly change the final texture and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare your Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove when needed.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Tossing in some peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes can add a unique twist to your soup.
By implementing these tips, you can elevate your Chicken Gnocchi Soup and tailor it to fit your taste.
How to Store Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Storing your Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy and ensures you can enjoy it later. To save leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and seal tightly, leaving some space for the soup to expand. Frozen soup can last for up to 3 months in the freezer, perfect for those busy nights when you want something homemade and hearty.
To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation of Chicken Gnocchi Soup
One of the best things about Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its versatility. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like sage or rosemary for an aromatic twist on the classic recipe. Those flavors work beautifully with chicken and gnocchi.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version of this comforting soup.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the vegetables. They will add a rich, earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.
- Lemon Zest: Add a hint of lemon zest at the end of cooking for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers.
These variations allow you to adapt the Chicken Gnocchi Soup to your liking, making it a delightful dish that never gets boring.
FAQ
What is Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy and hearty dish made with shredded chicken, potato gnocchi, and a blend of vegetables, simmered in chicken broth and cream.
How do I make Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
To make Chicken Gnocchi Soup, sauté vegetables, add broth, cook gnocchi, then mix in shredded chicken and cream. Finish by adding spinach and seasonings.
Can I use frozen gnocchi in this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used in this soup. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they are cooked properly.
Can I prepare Chicken Gnocchi Soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthy?
Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be healthy, filled with protein from chicken, and nutrients from vegetables. You can also customize it with fresh ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
Creating a comforting bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup is within your reach. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delightful dish with your family tonight!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded Use fresh, high-quality chicken breast if possible.
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi Fresh or frozen gnocchi can be used.
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 2 cups spinach Fresh spinach is best.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust to taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until they float.
- Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and pour in the heavy cream until well combined.
- Add the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning, letting the soup simmer until the spinach wilts.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
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