Cozy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Delight

Published:

by Molly white

Leave a Comment

The aroma of Chicken and Gnocchi Soup wafting through the kitchen is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you, cozying you up with its creamy texture and savory depth, reminding you of grandma’s love and all those delightful family gatherings. Picture this: tender chicken swimming in a luscious broth, fluffy gnocchi bobbing along like tiny pillows of joy, and vibrant vegetables adding pops of color. Seriously, if soup could smile, this one would be grinning from bowl to bowl. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.

Jump to:

Now, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. I remember the first time I decided to make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup; it was an overcast Sunday afternoon, and I was feeling adventurous (a.k.a starving). Armed with nothing but a recipe that seemed easy enough for my somewhat culinary-challenged self and a determination to impress my friends who were probably just here for the food I dove into my kitchen chaos. classic chicken soup recipe Spoiler alert: they loved it! This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of preparation makes this Chicken and Gnocchi Soup a go-to weeknight meal.
  • With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
  • Visually appealing with colorful veggies and fluffy gnocchi, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion serve it as an appetizer or a hearty main course!

Ingredients for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
  • Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves to add robust flavor; there’s no such thing as too much garlic in this soup!
  • Onion: A medium onion diced finely adds sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
  • Carrots: Chopped fresh carrots give color and natural sweetness; they’re like little orange gems in your soup.
  • Celery: Diced celery adds crunch and freshness; it’s essential for that classic soup flavor profile.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering rich flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
  • Gnocchi: Fresh or frozen gnocchi is equally delightful—fluffy little dumplings that soak up all the goodness.
  • Spinach or Kale: Toss in some greens for added nutrition; they wilt beautifully into the warm soup.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

How to Make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, toss in your diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until fragrant about five minutes until your kitchen smells like heaven.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot along with chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before lowering it down to simmer for about twenty minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot (it’ll be hot! Use tongs). Shred it using two forks or chop into bite-sized pieces. Return it back into the pot because we want all that juicy goodness!

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Stir in the gnocchi gently into your bubbling broth. They’ll cook quickly usually within about three minutes so keep an eye on them so they don’t turn mushy.

Step 5: Stir In Cream & Greens

Pour in heavy cream for that rich texture you’ve been dreaming about! Then toss in spinach (or kale) until wilted. Give everything one last stir so those beautiful colors mingle together.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer servings into bowls and maybe garnish with some fresh herbs or grated cheese if you’re feeling fancy! This is where you can wow your friends or family or just enjoy it all by yourself while wearing sweatpants.

This Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is more than just food; it’s comfort in every spoonful! Grab your favorite bread or crackers on the side for dipping delightfulness and enjoy every delicious moment!

You Must Know

  • This Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms your soul.
  • With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hug in a bowl.
  • Customize it to fit your taste, and watch everyone ask for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown to lock in those juices. While that’s happening, prepare the gnocchi and chop your veggies. Finally, combine everything with broth and let it simmer for a rich flavor explosion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even add in some spinach for extra greens. Experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish further, making it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcooking.
  • Use fresh gnocchi rather than dried for better texture.
  • Add cream gradually to achieve your desired richness without overwhelming the flavors.

Sometimes, I whip up this Chicken and Gnocchi Soup after a long day at work. The comforting aroma fills my kitchen, and my family can’t resist gathering around the table. It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?

To prepare Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, gather fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, along with chicken breast or thighs. You will also need store-bought or homemade gnocchi, chicken broth, cream, and seasonings such as garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. These ingredients combine to create a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly evenings.

How can I make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup healthier?

To make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup healthier, consider using whole wheat gnocchi or substituting some of the cream with milk or a plant-based alternative. Adding extra vegetables such as kale or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value without compromising taste. You can also reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth.

Can I use leftover chicken in Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time while preparing Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. Simply shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. This method infuses the soup with flavor while keeping it tender and juicy.

How long does Chicken and Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?

Chicken and Gnocchi Soup typically lasts about three to four days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing portions for up to three months. Just remember that the texture of gnocchi may change slightly after freezing.

Conclusion for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup :

In conclusion, Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi in a creamy broth. It is easy to prepare with simple ingredients like fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings. Whether you make it from scratch or use leftovers, this soup offers warmth on cold days. comforting rice bowl recipe air fryer croissants for pairing Don’t forget to customize your recipe for health benefits by adding more veggies or opting for lighter alternatives! Enjoy this delightful meal with family or friends any time of year.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken and Gnocchi Soup


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a heartwarming dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables in a creamy broth. This comforting soup is ideal for chilly evenings, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. With rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Treat yourself to a bowl of this deliciousness—your taste buds will thank you!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 16 oz fresh or frozen gnocchi
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add chicken breasts and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for about 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks; return it to the pot.
  4. Add Gnocchi: Stir in gnocchi and cook for about 3 minutes until tender.
  5. Stir In Cream & Greens: Pour in heavy cream and add spinach or kale until wilted. Mix well.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with herbs or cheese if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star