Looking for a quick and hearty meal that warms you from the inside out? You’ll love my Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This tasty dish combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and rich cream for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this soup is easy to make and full of flavor. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and steps to make this comforting dish today!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and soft gnocchi for a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and fresh spinach, this soup is not only tasty but also a nutritious option for the whole family.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the chicken for another protein, making it versatile for any palate.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
To make this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, you need a few key ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a warm, filling soup. The chicken gives protein, while the gnocchi adds a nice texture. The mixture of vegetables adds flavor and nutrients.
Optional Garnishes and Seasonings
You can boost the taste of your soup with some optional garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Croutons for crunch
- Fresh basil for a hint of sweetness
These garnishes add a personal touch and enhance the overall experience of the meal.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap out some ingredients, here are a few ideas:
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for less fat.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
These substitutions can help you customize the soup to fit your needs. Keep in mind that changing ingredients may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, add 1 pound of diced chicken. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s browned. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside. In the same pot, add 1 medium chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery ribs. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they are soft. This mix will add great flavor to your soup.
Creating the Broth and Gnocchi Base
Now, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf. Bring the mix to a boil. Once boiling, add 16 ounces of potato gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi per the package instructions, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This will give your soup a nice, hearty texture.
Adding Cream and Spinach for Richness
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This step helps the spinach wilt and blend with the soup. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a lovely finish!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture
For a smooth and creamy soup, use heavy cream. Add it at the end of cooking. This keeps it rich and prevents curdling. Stir gently to mix with the broth. If you want it thicker, use a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. This will help your soup stay creamy.
Storing Leftovers Safely
Always let the soup cool before storing. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze, use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, do it slowly on low heat. This keeps the texture nice.
Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices
Fresh herbs can boost the taste. Add parsley or basil just before serving. You can also try a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. For an earthy flavor, use more thyme or oregano. These simple changes can make a big difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
- Perfect Gnocchi Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi; they should float to the top when done, which usually takes just a few minutes.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations
Vegetarian Version of Chicken Gnocchi Soup
You can make a great vegetarian version of this soup. Instead of chicken, use mushrooms. They add a nice, meaty texture. For the broth, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. This keeps the flavor rich without meat. Add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and taste. You’ll still get a creamy soup that warms the soul.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Try tossing in some diced potatoes or green beans. You can also add corn, peas, or even kale. Each vegetable brings its own taste. This makes your soup more colorful and fun. Always remember to cut veggies into small pieces for even cooking.
Alternative Protein Options
If you want to change up the protein, there are many options. Try diced tofu for a plant-based choice. You can also use cooked sausage or shrimp for a different taste. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on what you choose. These swaps will still give you a hearty, filling soup.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Once you finish your creamy chicken gnocchi soup, let it cool. Store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this soup too. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It lasts well in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to keep it smooth. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream. Taste it again, and add salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. It saves time and effort. Fresh or frozen gnocchi works well too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time. This makes the soup quick and simple to prepare.
How long does creamy chicken gnocchi soup last in the fridge?
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools before you seal it. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better after resting. Just follow the recipe and let it cool. Store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of cream if it’s too thick. Enjoy this hearty meal anytime!
This blog post covered how to make creamy chicken gnocchi soup. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, gnocchi, and cream. I shared steps to prepare the soup and tips for perfect texture. Variations and storage options showed how to customize and save your soup. Remember, you can swap ingredients or make it vegetarian. Enjoy this warm, flavorful dish that fits your need
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook per package instructions, typically about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot, then stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.
