Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy soup that warms the soul and brings smiles to the dinner table, you’ve found it! This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings alike. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s almost like bringing a piece of Olive Garden right into your kitchen. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Picture this: you come home after a long day, and all you want is something delicious that doesn’t take hours to prepare. This Chicken Gnocchi Soup fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will surely impress everyone with its delightful taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy goodness and tender gnocchi.
• Perfect for leftovers: Make a big batch; it tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile: Use fresh or leftover chicken to suit your needs and pantry offerings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Each component adds its own special touch to create a flavorful bowl of comfort.

For the Soup Base

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 stick of celery (diced)
• ½ cup carrots (julienned)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Creamy Broth

• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder

For the Main Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced cooked chicken)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 16 oz. potato gnocchi (found in the pasta aisle)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a lighter option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version!

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until everything is soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step builds an aromatic base that enhances the soup’s flavor!

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour while continuously stirring. Cook for another minute until smooth and golden. This creates a roux that will give your soup its creamy consistency.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

Slowly pour in the half-and-half and chicken broth while stirring constantly. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before adding thyme and mustard powder. These spices elevate your soup with warmth and depth.

Step 4: Cook Your Chicken

Add in your uncooked chicken breasts if you’re using them fresh. If you’re using cooked chicken, just wait until later! Cover the pot and simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Mix in Gnocchi & Spinach

Remove cooked chicken if using fresh; shred it before returning it back to the pot along with potato gnocchi. Stir in fresh spinach too! Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning & Serve!

Taste your soup and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Ladle into bowls and enjoy this heartwarming Chicken Gnocchi Soup with loved ones around!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating a delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about the little details that elevate the dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup, providing a bright, vibrant taste that frozen or canned alternatives simply can’t match.
• Cook Chicken to Perfection: If using raw chicken, be sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through before adding it to the soup. This adds depth of flavor and ensures tender chicken pieces.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add additional chicken broth or half-and-half until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you can make it as creamy or as brothy as you prefer!
• Incorporate Spinach Last: Adding fresh spinach towards the end of cooking helps maintain its bright green color and nutrients. This way, you get a pop of color and health benefits without overcooking it.
• Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your soup before serving! A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference in enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Presentation is key when serving up this comforting bowl of goodness! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present your Chicken Gnocchi Soup for an inviting meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Although not animal-derived gelatin, a sprinkle of grated cheese can add rich flavor; just ensure it’s suitable for your dietary needs.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, enhancing the overall experience with its buttery goodness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Add croutons for extra crunch!
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch while complementing the flavors of the soup. Its vibrant green color also makes for an appealing plate.
• Cheesy Herb Biscuits: Soft biscuits infused with herbs and cheese pair wonderfully with this soup, making for a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Chicken Gnocchi Soup; it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for those busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal in no time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
• To prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy, consider freezing the soup without the gnocchi and adding them during reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred or dice it and add it to your soup for a quick meal that’s packed with flavor.

How can I make Chicken Gnocchi Soup healthier?

You can use low-fat half-and-half instead of regular, replace butter with olive oil, and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

What can I serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. Feel free to enjoy it as a standalone dish or as part of a lovely dinner spread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to make this creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It truly is special—perfectly comforting on chilly nights and delightful enough to impress guests. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Happy cooking!