This Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh spinach for a tasty blend.
You might find yourself wanting to make it again and again! I know I do! It’s super easy to make, and it warms you right up on a chilly day. Perfect for cozy nights! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, it adds flavor and richness. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or even butter for a different taste.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts keep it lean and tender. For a different texture, try using chicken thighs or even cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a deep, tangy flavor to the soup. If you don’t have them, try using fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, though you’ll miss that intense flavor.
Heavy Cream: Essential for creaminess! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings make the soup hearty. You can substitute them with rice or pasta like orzo. Just note the cooking time may vary.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard works in its place, just chop them finely for quick cooking!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting tender and juicy chicken is key to this soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium-high heat to brown the outside, which seals in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest off the heat for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
These tips will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and adds the best flavor to your soup!
How to Make Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach (or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking. It’s a quick and easy recipe that gives you a creamy, hearty dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste, and add them to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these together for about 2-3 minutes, until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step adds a lovely flavor base for your soup!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir for another 1-2 minutes to combine everything nicely and enhance the flavors.
4. Create the Soup Base:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts happening!
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions, which is usually about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top of the soup.
6. Add the Greens and Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir in the fresh spinach, basil, and parsley. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
7. Finish with Cheese:
Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup has a creamy consistency. Yum!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if needed. Make it just right for you!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your wonderful Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the warmth and delightful flavors!
This creamy, flavorful Tuscan-inspired soup with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant greens is perfect for cozy meals and sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure it’s thoroughly thawed before cooking. The best way is to defrost it in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short intervals until hot. If it thickens up in the fridge, you can add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to the right consistency.
What Can I Substitute for Gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi, you can substitute it with small pasta like orzo or even rice. Just be aware that the cooking time will vary, so check the package instructions for precise cooking times.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this soup dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
