Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. 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:

  1. In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
  2. Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Simmer the Soup:

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
  3. Stir in the dried thyme and dried basil.
  4. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Add Gnocchi and Spinach:

  1. Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top.
  2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Finish with Cream:

  1. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the soup is heated through.

Serve:

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  2. 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:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté carrots, celery, and onions in olive oil until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
  5. Stir in cooked shredded or diced chicken and simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
  7. Add fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
  8. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.
  9. 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.

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