Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Gnocchi Chicken Soup is a comforting and filling soup made with tender chunks of chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s a fantastic dish to make when you’re looking for a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and easy. This soup is reminiscent of chicken noodle soup but taken to the next level with gnocchi, giving it a unique texture and richness.

This recipe is simple to prepare and makes for a perfect cozy family dinner that will leave everyone feeling warm and content.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
• 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Make the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

3. Add Chicken and Gnocchi

Once the broth is boiling, add the shredded chicken and gnocchi to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and begin to float.

4. Add the Cream and Spinach

Stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream) and allow the soup to come back to a simmer. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.

5. Serve

Remove the soup from heat. Ladle the Gnocchi Chicken Soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Notes

• Chicken: You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer, you can also cook fresh chicken breasts in the broth until fully cooked, then shred them.
• Gnocchi: Both store-bought and homemade potato gnocchi work well in this soup. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type.
• Half-and-Half vs. Heavy Cream: Half-and-half will make the soup creamy without being too heavy, but for an extra rich and decadent texture, use heavy cream.

Variations

• Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Replace the chicken with crumbled Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Cook the sausage in the pot first, then proceed with the vegetables.
• Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Spicy Gnocchi Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a bit of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the gnocchi fresh when reheating, as they can become too soft if left in the soup for too long. Alternatively, cook the soup without the gnocchi, store it in the fridge, and add the gnocchi when reheating.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Can I freeze this soup?

While you can freeze the soup base, the gnocchi may become mushy when thawed. If you plan to freeze, consider adding the gnocchi fresh when reheating the soup after thawing.

Can I use a different type of cream?

You can use light cream, milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk if desired. However, keep in mind that using a lighter cream may affect the richness of the soup.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Gnocchi Chicken Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that’s sure to warm you up on chilly days. With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a deliciously satisfying meal that comes together easily.

Try this recipe for a cozy dinner that the whole family will love. Whether served as a main course or alongside some crusty bread, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!