When it comes to comfort food, soups tend to top the list, and this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is no exception. Combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy broth, it’s the perfect recipe to warm up on chilly days. Not only is this soup hearty and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare, making it an excellent go-to meal for weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, this delicious soup will be on your table in just about 35 minutes!
What is Gnocchi?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at gnocchi. Gnocchi are small dumplings, typically made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs. They are soft, light, and make an excellent alternative to pasta in many dishes. The beauty of gnocchi is that they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the surrounding broth beautifully, making them ideal for a rich, creamy soup like this one.
Now, let’s get started on making this flavorful and comforting Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
Ingredients with Quantities
Here’s a quick glance at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this creamy chicken gnocchi soup. These ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, and you may already have some in your pantry.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – This will be used to sauté the chicken and vegetables, giving the dish a rich base flavor.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced – Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for this recipe. It’s lean and cooks quickly, making it perfect for soups.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Onions add a layer of sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings a punch of flavor and enhances the taste of the chicken and gnocchi.
- 1 cup carrots, diced – Carrots provide a hint of sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- 1 cup celery, diced – Celery offers a crisp texture and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the carrots and creaminess of the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The chicken broth forms the base of this soup, giving it richness and savory flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The heavy cream is what gives the soup its luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi – The star of the soup! Gnocchi makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds depth and aroma to the soup.
- 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped – Fresh spinach adds a boost of nutrition and color to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, bright flavor as well as a pop of green to the finished dish.
Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced 1 pound of chicken breast. Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate. The chicken will be added back to the soup later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The onions should turn translucent, and the garlic will add a wonderful aroma to the mix.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the broth and vegetables simmer together for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
- Stir in the 16-ounce package of potato gnocchi. Let the gnocchi cook in the broth for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the top. Floating gnocchi indicates they are perfectly cooked and ready.
Step 5: Add the Chicken, Cream, and Spinach
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot, along with the 1 cup of heavy cream and the 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once everything is cooked, give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breast?
Yes! If you’re short on time or prefer a more convenient option, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup at the same stage where the cooked chicken breast is added. This will cut down on the cooking time and still provide a delicious meal.
Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or cream, as the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid while sitting.
Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze the soup, it’s important to note that the texture of the gnocchi may change after being frozen. The soup might thicken after being frozen and thawed, so you may need to add extra broth or cream when reheating. Also, cream-based soups tend to separate when frozen, so keep that in mind if you plan to freeze the soup.
Q4: What can I serve with this soup?
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread on the side. You can also serve it with garlic bread for an even heartier meal.
Q5: Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Keep in mind that the soup will be less creamy, but it will still be delicious.
Q6: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, to make this soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free gnocchi. There are several options available at most grocery stores.
Q7: How can I make this soup more flavorful?
For an extra boost of flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the broth, or sprinkle in a little grated Parmesan cheese when serving. Additionally, using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought will enhance the soup’s overall taste.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, soft gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth into one bowl of deliciousness. It’s a versatile recipe, easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the heartiness of gnocchi in a flavorful, creamy soup that will surely become a family favorite.