This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is warm, creamy, and packed with yummy flavors! It’s filled with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies that make each spoonful a delight.
It’s perfect for cozy nights when you want something hearty. I love making a big pot and savoring it all week—because who doesn’t want comfort in a bowl? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing vegetables. If you’re out, you can use vegetable oil or butter. I love the flavor olive oil brings, but butter can add a nice richness, too!
Chicken Broth: It gives the soup a deep flavor. You can swap it for vegetable broth if you want a lighter version. Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well on busy days!
Gnocchi: The potato gnocchi brings a unique texture. If you can’t find potato gnocchi, use fresh pasta, like tagliatelle or even rice for a fun twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup nice and creamy. For a lighter option, half-and-half or milk can be used. If you’re looking for dairy-free, try coconut milk or a cashew cream substitute!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives, just chop them smaller and adjust the cooking time so they soften up correctly.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
Choosing the right cooking time for your veggies is key to keeping everything tender and lovely. Start by sautéing the onion until it turns translucent; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic next to keep it from burning.
- Follow by cooking the carrots and celery, which need about 5 minutes to soften. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- When you pour in the chicken broth, let it simmer to soften the carrots completely. You want them tender but not mushy!
- Remember, the spinach cooks quickly, so only add it at the end to keep it vibrant.
This method will help you achieve a delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup with perfectly cooked vegetables! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup takes about 15-20 minutes for prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s enjoyable any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic along with the sliced carrots and diced celery. Keep stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Adding the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the carrots are nice and tender—this is where the flavors start to meld together!
3. Incorporating the Chicken and Gnocchi:
Add the cooked chicken to the pot, mixing it thoroughly. Then, stir in the potato gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top. This means they’re ready!
4. Finishing the Soup:
Turn down the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach leaves. Let it cook for just another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is warmed through. Be sure not to let it boil after adding the cream; we want it silky and smooth!
5. Seasoning and Serving:
Now, season your soup with salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Finally, ladle the creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls, garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme, and enjoy warm, perhaps with a side of crusty bread!
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines comforting flavors with a velvety broth, making it the perfect cozy meal that you and your loved ones will surely enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save time and still provide great flavor. Just add them directly to the pot when you would normally add the fresh veggies. Cook them a little longer to ensure they’re heated through and tender.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it longer, consider freezing the soup, but leave out the cream until you’re ready to eat it—this helps maintain the texture. Just reheat on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken, and swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream. You can still enjoy all the comforting flavors!
What Can I Serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a side of garlic bread. Feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor boost!