Warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup, packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Chicken:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
- Stir in the dried thyme and dried basil.
- Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Add Gnocchi and Spinach:
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Finish with Cream:
- Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the soup is heated through.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your rich and creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, perfect for any day of the week!
FAQ:
1. What is Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Answer: Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy and comforting soup made with chicken, potato gnocchi, vegetables, and a creamy broth. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for colder weather.
2. What ingredients are typically used in Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Answer: Common ingredients in Chicken Gnocchi Soup include:
- Chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded or diced
- Potato gnocchi (Italian potato dumplings)
- Chicken broth or stock
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Carrots, celery, and onions (often referred to as mirepoix)
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh spinach or kale
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
- Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
3. How do you make Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Answer: To make Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté carrots, celery, and onions in olive oil until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
- Stir in cooked shredded or diced chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Add fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Can you make substitutions or additions to Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Answer: Yes, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is versatile and can be adapted based on personal preferences:
- Substitute the chicken with cooked turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Use vegetable broth or a combination of chicken and vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Add other vegetables such as peas, diced potatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat gnocchi or gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
- Experiment with different herbs or spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to vary the flavor profile.
5. How should Chicken Gnocchi Soup be stored and reheated?
Answer: To store Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Enjoy Chicken Gnocchi Soup as a comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially during colder months.