Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm and comforting dish that embodies the essence of cozy home cooking. Rich and creamy, this soup features tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables all simmered together in a savory broth. It’s the perfect recipe for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds, making it a family favorite in no time!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This chicken gnocchi soup recipe is a delightful balance of flavors that are both comforting and nourishing. The creamy broth is infused with garlic and herbs, creating a rich backdrop for tender chicken and soft gnocchi. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit various diets, as it can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor of the soup, so opt for fresh spinach or kale instead of frozen, if possible.
- Cook the Gnocchi Separately: For perfect texture, cook the gnocchi in boiling water separately, then add them to the soup just before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the broth, or you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan just before serving to enhance the dish’s flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Ignoring Seasoning: This soup benefits from ample seasoning; don’t skip on salt and pepper. Taste as you go!
- Not Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning enhances their flavors. Always take the time to do this step.
- Using Frozen Gnocchi: While convenient, frozen gnocchi can alter the soup’s texture. If you can, opt for fresh or homemade gnocchi.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare parts of this soup ahead of time for convenience. Cook the chicken and vegetables the day before, then store them in the refrigerator. The gnocchi can also be prepped and stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply add them together with the broth and heat until warmed through. The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms and zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables for an extra layer of heat.
- Herb Variations: Try using thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken gnocchi soup in large bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or grated parmesan cheese for a touch of elegance. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the soup. A drizzle of olive oil on top can add a lovely finishing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio works beautifully with the creamy soup. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing herbal iced tea or sparkling water with lemon will complement the dish nicely. As for sides, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a slice of garlic bread would complete the meal perfectly.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep for about three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the ingredients.
- Ladle: For serving the soup.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this chicken gnocchi soup vegan, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Gluten-free gnocchi can also be found at most grocery stores for a gluten-free adaptation.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider adding fresh peas and asparagus for a vibrant touch. During fall, pumpkin or butternut squash can be incorporated for a seasonal twist. In winter, root vegetables like carrots and parsnips are wonderful additions.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this chicken gnocchi soup recipe is around $12-$15 for a serving of 6, making it about $2.50 to $2.75 per serving. To save on costs, consider using frozen vegetables or making homemade gnocchi from scratch.
Kitchen Hacks
- Peeling Garlic: Smash the clove with the flat side of a knife to easily remove the skin.
- Chopping Herbs: Use kitchen scissors to quickly chop fresh herbs without the mess of a cutting board.
- Faster Gnocchi Cooking: If using store-bought gnocchi, remember that they only need a minute or two in boiling water until they float, so keep an eye on them!
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well; just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
- What can I substitute for chicken? You can use tofu, chickpeas, or any other protein of your choice.
- How long does it take to make? The total time for this recipe is about 30-40 minutes.
- Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it for serving.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm and comforting dish that embodies the essence of cozy home cooking. Rich and creamy, this soup features tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables all simmered together in a savory broth. It’s the perfect recipe for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Season the mixture with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breast to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- In a separate pot, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they float, they are done.
- Add the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach to the soup, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.10. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 325Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 112mgSodium 798mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 3gSugar 5gProtein 27g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken gnocchi soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a quiet evening at home. Whether you follow the recipe as is or make it your own with variations, you’re sure to create a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Enjoy every spoonful!
