This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It features tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh veggies swimming in a creamy broth that’s simply comforting.
You can’t go wrong with a meal that feels like a warm hug. I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all that yummy soup. It’s a family favorite for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work wonderfully to sauté veggies. I prefer olive oil for its lighter flavor, but feel free to use butter if you enjoy that rich taste.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time and adds great flavor. You can use leftover chicken or even turkey if you have some on hand.
Gnocchi: The star of the dish! If you can’t find potato gnocchi, you can use mini pasta shapes like orzo or small shells, though they will change the texture slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is fantastic here, but you can substitute with kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to cook them a bit longer if using tough greens.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half or milk also works. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a nut milk for a different flavor.
What’s the Key to Sautéing Vegetables Perfectly for Soup?
Sautéing vegetables at the start is essential for building flavor in your Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot over medium heat and add oil or butter.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender. Make sure not to rush this step!
- When the onions become translucent and the carrots are slightly soft, add the garlic and sauté for 1 more minute; this brings out their flavors.
Always stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. These steps make your base flavorful and aromatic!
Delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This heartwarming soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish—a great option for a cozy weeknight meal that doesn’t take too long to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Veggies:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Adding the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. This is where the aroma begins to make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Mixing in the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the dried thyme and oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it all a good stir to mix everything together.
4. Bringing it to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer—they should be gently bubbling along as we move to the next steps.
5. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Add the shredded chicken and gnocchi to the pot. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface, which means they’re done!
6. Adding Spinach & Cream:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until it’s wilted. Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Make sure to heat it through but don’t let it boil!
7. Finishing Touches:
If you’re using Parmesan, stir it in now until it melts and blends into the soup. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed—it should taste just right!
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side for dipping and enjoy your delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
This creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a savory, comforting broth that’s perfect for chilly days. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or in cold water if you’re short on time. After thawing, be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before shredding.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cream and adding it when reheating to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute for added creaminess.
What Vegetables Can I Add?
This soup is very versatile! In addition to spinach, you can add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for any additions to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
