Chicken Gnocchi Soup

There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken gnocchi soup. The rich and velvety broth, dotted with tender chunks of chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables, is pure heaven for the taste buds. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside-out and makes you feel like you’re being enveloped in a cozy hug.

I first fell in love with this soul-soothing soup when I visited a small Italian restaurant during a winter vacation. The moment I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a rustic countryside kitchen, where a chef lovingly stirred a bubbling pot of soup on the stove. The aromas wafted through the air, teasing my senses and leaving me eager to taste the hearty goodness.

While my own kitchen may not have the same charm as that Italian restaurant, I’ve managed to recreate the flavors and aromas of that memorable bowl of soup with my own version of chicken gnocchi soup. It has become a staple in my home during the colder months, and it’s a dish that always brings smiles to the faces of my family and friends.

One of the things I love most about making chicken gnocchi soup is the flexibility it offers. You can easily customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs. Swap out the chicken for turkey or tofu, add in your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that speaks to you.

If you’re a fan of creamy soups, you can also add a touch of heavy cream or milk to the broth. This will give it a luxuriously silky texture and a hint of richness that is simply divine. Just be sure to whisk the cream into the soup gently and heat it on low, as you don’t want it to curdle.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, chicken gnocchi soup is a dish that anyone can master. It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes creativity and adapts to whatever ingredients you have on hand. So next time you’re in need of some culinary comfort, grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the warmth and flavor of this truly delightful soup.

Key Ingredients in Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Now, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that come together to create the irresistible flavors and textures of chicken gnocchi soup.

• Olive oil: A tablespoon of olive oil provides a delicious base for sautéing the onions and garlic. Its subtle fruitiness adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the soup.
• Onion: Diced and sautéed until soft and translucent, the onion brings a sweet and slightly savory component to the soup. It adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is added to the sautéed onions, releasing its enticing aroma and enhancing the overall taste of the soup. Garlic lends a deliciously pungent and aromatic note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Chicken broth: Acting as the foundation of this soup, the chicken broth provides a rich and flavorful base for the other ingredients. It adds depth and savory notes, elevating the overall taste to a comforting level.
• Dried thyme: Fragrant and earthy, dried thyme brings a unique and delightful herbal flavor to the soup. It pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, offering a subtle herbal note that balances the richness.
• Dried basil: Dried basil adds a touch of sweetness and brightness to the soup. Its fresh, herbaceous taste complements the other flavors and adds a vibrant burst to every spoonful.
• Salt: A little salt goes a long way in enhancing all of the other flavors in the soup. It helps to bring out the natural taste of the ingredients and adds a delicate balance to the overall flavor profile.
• Black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle hint of spiciness and warmth to the soup. It complements the savory elements and adds a touch of complexity to each mouthful.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives the soup a kick of spiciness. It adds a depth and warmth to the overall flavor, creating a delightful balance of heat and comfort.
• Cooked chicken: Shredded and tender, the cooked chicken adds a meaty and hearty component to the soup. It brings a satisfying texture and adds a bit of protein to make the soup a complete and filling meal.
• Half-and-half: The addition of half-and-half gives the soup its creamy and velvety texture. It adds richness and smoothness to every spoonful, making the soup even more comforting and indulgent.
• Spinach: Chopped spinach provides a burst of vibrant green to the soup, adding a fresh and earthy flavor. It brings a nourishing element to the dish and boosts its nutritional value.
• Gnocchi: The star of the show, these soft and pillowy potato dumplings add a wonderful texture to the soup. Their mild and delicate flavor perfectly soaks up the rich flavors of the broth, making each bite a delight.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup adds a tangy and nutty flavor. It adds a wonderful depth and a touch of decadence to the overall taste.
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening): If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use cornstarch to achieve that desirable consistency. It helps to give the soup a luxurious and velvety texture.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the symphony of flavors that make this soup so irresistible. From the aromatic onions and garlic to the tender gnocchi and creamy half-and-half, each component lends its unique character to the overall dish. So, round up these key ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Crusty Bread on the Side: There’s something magical about dipping a piece of warm, crusty bread into a bowl of soup. Serve your chicken gnocchi soup with slices of freshly baked bread or a loaf of rustic Italian bread. The combination of soft gnocchi and savory broth with a crunchy slice of bread is pure comfort food bliss.

2. Fresh Herb Garnish: Elevate the presentation and flavor of your soup by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs on top. A handful of chopped parsley, basil, or chives adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to each spoonful. It not only looks beautiful but also enhances the herbaceous notes in the soup.

3. Pair with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the chicken gnocchi soup with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a citrusy citrus salad complements the heartiness of the soup perfectly. The combination of warm soup and crisp salad makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

How to Store Chicken Gnocchi Soup

After all the love and effort you put into making a delicious batch of chicken gnocchi soup, you want to make sure it stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Here are a few simple tips on how to store your soup to maintain its quality and flavor.

1. Refrigerate: If you have leftover soup, the refrigerator is your best friend. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or individual portions in resealable bags. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can easily keep track of its freshness. Chicken gnocchi soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

2. Freeze: If you’re looking to extend the shelf life of your soup, freezing is the way to go. To freeze chicken gnocchi soup, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Make sure to leave some headspace in the containers for expansion. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label and date the containers or bags. Chicken gnocchi soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. A Note on Gnocchi: Keep in mind that gnocchi can become soft and mushy when frozen and reheated. If you know you’ll be freezing the soup, you can omit the gnocchi and cook it separately when you’re ready to serve. Simply add the cooked gnocchi to each individual bowl and ladle the hot soup on top. This way, you’ll have the perfect consistency every time.

Remember, when reheating the soup, do so gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Be sure not to boil the soup as it can affect the texture and flavor of the ingredients.

Now that you know how to store your chicken gnocchi soup, you can enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish whenever you’re in need of a cozy and delicious meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, you can always have a warm and satisfying bowl of homemade soup ready to go.

Conclusion

And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to creating a heartwarming bowl of chicken gnocchi soup that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. From sautéing the onions and garlic to simmering the broth with tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi, this recipe is a delightful journey of flavors and aromas that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with love and warmth.

So, the next time you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to impress your loved ones with a delicious homemade dish, turn to this chicken gnocchi soup recipe. Whether you follow it to a tee or add your own twist with favorite ingredients, this soup is sure to bring joy and comfort to your table.

Feel free to print out this recipe and save it for later use. Keep it in your kitchen as a trusty companion on chilly evenings or whenever you need a culinary hug. And if you ever have any questions, comments, or want to share your experience making this soup, I’d love to hear from you. Cooking is all about sharing joy and creating memories, and I’m thrilled to be on this flavorful journey with you. Happy cooking, my fellow food enthusiast!

Print Recipe

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Author: Daniel Carter Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 50 mins

Calories: 450

Description

A cozy, heartwarming bowl of creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, brimming with tender chunks of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of vegetables. The rich, velvety broth wraps everything together in a savory, comforting hug you won’t forget.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 2 cups half-and-half

• 1 cup spinach, chopped

• 1 pound gnocchi

• ¹⁄₄ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
6. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
7. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring it into the broth mixture.
8. Pour in the half-and-half and stir until fully combined.
9. Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir to incorporate it into the soup.
10. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.
11. Carefully add the gnocchi to the soup, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
12. Allow the gnocchi to cook for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top, indicating they are cooked.
13. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup.
14. Continue to simmer the soup for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
15. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup.
16. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
17. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Note

• Use a non-stick pot or Dutch oven to prevent the soup from sticking while cooking.
• If you don’t have cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference—use less for a milder soup.
• For a richer flavor, substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream.
• Stir the gnocchi gently to avoid breaking them during cooking.

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