Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: the ultimate comfort food that will warm you from the inside out! Imagine sinking your spoon into a bowl of rich, creamy broth, studded with tender pieces of chicken and pillowy soft gnocchi. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Have you ever had a soup so satisfying that it feels like a warm hug? This is it!

While the exact origins of chicken gnocchi soup are debated, it draws inspiration from classic Italian cuisine, where gnocchi reigns supreme. Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, have been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries, and their versatility makes them perfect for soups, sauces, and countless other dishes. This particular combination, however, has gained immense popularity in recent years, becoming a beloved favorite in homes and restaurants alike.

People adore creamy chicken gnocchi soup for its incredible taste and comforting texture. The creamy broth is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the savory chicken and the delicate gnocchi. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch, this soup is sure to please. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken! So, get ready to experience the magic of creamy chicken gnocchi soup – your taste buds will thank you!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; you might need to do this in batches to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Now, it’s time for the vegetables. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it! You want the onions to become translucent and the carrots and celery to soften slightly.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly during this step.

Building the Soup Base

1. Pour the chicken broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These browned bits, also known as fond, are packed with flavor and will add depth to your soup.
2. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This simmering time is essential for creating a rich and flavorful broth.

Adding the Gnocchi and Finishing Touches

1. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
2. Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on the brand of gnocchi.
3. Stir in the cooked chicken and heavy cream. Heat through gently, being careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. The Parmesan cheese adds a lovely richness and saltiness to the soup.
5. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a pop of color and some extra nutrients to the soup.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is best served hot.

Tips and Variations

• For a thicker soup: You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir well to combine and allow the soup to thicken.
• For a vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier soup.
• Use different types of gnocchi: You can use different types of gnocchi, such as spinach gnocchi or sweet potato gnocchi.
• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition to this soup. Add it along with the chicken.
• Make it ahead: You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. Note that the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
• Freezing: While you *can* freeze this soup, I don’t recommend it. The gnocchi can become a bit mushy after thawing. If you do freeze it, use it within 1-2 months for best quality. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. They will add a richer flavor to the soup. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless.
• Slow Cooker Option: This soup can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed in the first few steps. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the gnocchi, cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Instant Pot Option: For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot. Sauté the chicken and vegetables as directed. Add the broth and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then a quick release. Stir in the gnocchi, cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Let the gnocchi cook for a few minutes until tender.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Crusty bread for dipping
• A simple side salad
• Garlic bread
• Grilled cheese sandwich

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Enjoy this comforting and delicious Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. From the tender, pillowy gnocchi to the succulent chicken and the rich, creamy broth, every spoonful is an experience. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a chilly evening, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a weeknight dinner when you need something comforting and delicious on the table fast.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re a fan of vegetables, consider adding some chopped spinach, kale, or even some roasted butternut squash for a touch of sweetness. You could also swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Serving suggestions are endless! I personally love to serve this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that luscious broth. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, add a touch of elegance. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a simple side salad. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, a drizzle of truffle oil can elevate the flavors to a whole new level.

Don’t be intimidated by the name; this recipe is surprisingly simple to make. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. Even if you’re a beginner cook, I’m confident that you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup with ease. The key is to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and most importantly, have fun!

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I truly believe that this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think?

Please, share your photos and stories in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and accessible recipes for everyone to enjoy. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! I am sure you will love this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do.