Looking for a warm, filling meal that everyone will love? My Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just the answer! This hearty recipe combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a creamy broth. It’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. Stick around as I guide you through the simple ingredients, easy steps, and tips to make this dish the star of your dinner table!
Ingredients
When making Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you need a few key ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture. Let’s break them down.
Chicken and broth components
– 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
The chicken gives the soup a hearty base. I recommend using fresh chicken breast for the best taste. Chicken broth adds depth. Heavy cream turns it creamy and rich.
Vegetables and seasonings
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 2 carrots, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Your vegetables bring color and nutrition. Spinach adds a healthy touch. Carrots and celery give sweetness and crunch. Onions and garlic add a savory flavor. Thyme and oregano enhance the aroma. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to make it pop!
Dairy and garnish options
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Olive oil is perfect for sautéing your veggies. It adds a nice flavor. Finally, top your soup with grated Parmesan cheese. It will make each bowl look fancy and taste even better.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions below.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
1. Sauté vegetables and seasonings: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these until they soften, which takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Then, add minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano. Cook for one more minute until the kitchen smells great.
2. Brown the chicken: Next, add cubed chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, which takes about 7 to 8 minutes. This step builds flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Simmer with broth and gnocchi: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mix to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. After that, stir in the potato gnocchi and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The gnocchi will float when they are done, which is how you know they are ready.
Finalizing the soup
1. Stir in cream and spinach: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the pot. Then, toss in the fresh spinach. Let the soup simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
2. Adjust seasoning: After that, taste your soup! You might want to add more salt and pepper to bring out the flavors even more.
3. Presentation tips: When you serve, make sure to ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for a nice finish. It adds flavor and makes it look great too!
For the complete recipe, you can check out the Full Recipe section. Enjoy your warm bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking tips for perfect soup
To make the best Chicken Gnocchi Soup, start with sautéing the vegetables right. Use a large pot and heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook them for 5-6 minutes until they soften. This step builds a strong base of flavor.
For cooking gnocchi, it’s simple. Add the gnocchi to the soup when it’s boiling. They will float when they are done, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This means they are ready, and you can add them right into your soup.
To achieve the right soup consistency, you want it creamy but not too thick. Stir in the heavy cream after the gnocchi. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until it’s just right. This keeps everything smooth and tasty.
Serving suggestions
Pair your Chicken Gnocchi Soup with some crusty bread. A nice sourdough or baguette works great. This adds a nice crunch and complements the soup’s creaminess well.
For ideal side dishes, think about a fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette can brighten the meal. You can also serve it with a light pasta dish for a fuller dinner. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Variations
Ingredient swaps
You can easily change the protein in this soup. Try using turkey instead of chicken. Shrimp also works well for a seafood twist. Both options add unique flavors and textures.
Feel free to mix up the vegetables, too. You can use peas, zucchini, or even kale. These swaps let you customize the soup to your taste.
Dietary modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer great tasting alternatives. You can enjoy the same comfort without the gluten.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives keep the soup creamy while fitting your dietary needs.
Storage Info
Storing leftovers
To keep your Chicken Gnocchi Soup fresh, first let it cool. Use airtight containers to store it. This helps keep out air and moisture. You can refrigerate the soup for up to four days. If you want to save it longer, freeze it. In the freezer, it lasts for about three months. When freezing, make sure to leave some space in the container. The soup will expand as it freezes.
Reheating tips
When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, reheating is easy. Use a pot on the stove for the best result. Heat it on low to avoid burning the bottom. Stir often to help it warm evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of broth or water. This will help bring back the creamy texture. Avoid the microwave if you can. It can cause the gnocchi to become mushy. Reheat just until hot, and enjoy every comforting bite!
FAQs
Common questions related to Chicken Gnocchi Soup
What is the origin of Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Chicken Gnocchi Soup comes from Italy. Gnocchi is a type of pasta made from potatoes. It is soft and chewy. This soup combines gnocchi with chicken and veggies in a creamy broth. Many cooks love this dish for its warmth and comfort.
Can I make Chicken Gnocchi Soup in advance?
Yes, you can make Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day as flavors blend. When you reheat, add a splash of broth for creaminess.
How do I make Chicken Gnocchi Soup in a slow cooker?
To make this soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except the cream and spinach. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the cream and spinach just before serving. This method makes it easy and hands-off.
Additional user inquiries
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?
Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi. It cooks faster than packaged gnocchi. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking. This will keep it tender and delicious.
What to serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a tasty side. Both options help soak up the creamy broth and add to the meal. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy to make and full of flavor. We explored all the key ingredients, from chicken to vegetables and seasonings. Follow the step-by-step instructions for a hearty meal. Use my cooking tips to perfect your soup and try different variations to suit your taste. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Overall, this dish is a tasty choice for any occasion. Now, gather your ingredients and start cooking a warm bowl of comfort.
