Chicken and Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy Embrace in Every Bowl
There’s something ethereal about the smell of hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup bubbling away on a chilly evening—an aroma that wraps around you like a warm blanket. Each simmering pot brings back memories of laughter-filled winters spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where she masterfully combined simple ingredients to create masterpieces of comfort food. This beloved family recipe not only satisfies the stomach but also nourishes the soul, serving as a reminder that food has the power to bond us and create joyful moments together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a creation designed for comfort, ease, and joy. Here are a few heartfelt reasons why you’ll want to make this your go-to recipe:
- Delicious Flavors: Tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables dance together in a creamy broth, delivering a flavor explosion in every spoonful.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, this soup takes less than an hour to make, making it a stellar quick dinner idea.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Delicious enough to impress guests, yet simple enough for a weeknight family dinner, it’s a recipe that garners enthusiasm from everyone at the table.
- Budget-Friendly: Made from affordable ingredients, this homemade meal ensures you don’t break the bank while feeding your loved ones.
- Comforting Warmth: Perfect for chilly evenings, it feels like a hug in a bowl, reminding us of home and cherished moments.
Ingredients
Gather these fantastic ingredients to kickstart your culinary adventure. Feel free to make them your own with a few personalized substitutions!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option)
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought for convenience, but feel free to try making your own!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade broth works wonders but store-bought is perfectly acceptable)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or swap with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or swap with kale for a stronger flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
This Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is perfect for those evenings when you seek something quick yet indulgent with little fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
-
Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Allow it to cook for an additional minute, letting the delightful aroma fill your kitchen.
-
Incorporate Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a soft simmer. Allow it to cook for around 10 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
-
Introduce the Gnocchi: Toss in your potato gnocchi and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This is when the magic happens!
-
Add Cream and Chicken: Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded chicken. Stir until well combined, and let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
-
Add Greens: Just before serving, fold in the fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the spinach to wilt slightly before serving.
-
Serve Warm: Ladle your delicious Chicken and Gnocchi Soup into bowls and enjoy immediately!
Variations and Twists
Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this soup! Here are a few creative suggestions:
- Vegetarian Version: Leave out the chicken and swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for texture.
- Herbaceous Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant flavor profile.
- Festive Treat: Add cubed butternut squash for a seasonal twist, making it perfect for autumn gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping, or pair it with a crisp, green side salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes every gathering feel like a special occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze the soup in portions for a comforting meal at a later date, but keep in mind that gnocchi may become softer after freezing. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the silky texture.
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Toast your dried spices in the oil before adding other ingredients to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and excess water beforehand to avoid a watery soup.
- Always taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your personal preference.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and is just as delicious as homemade.
Can I meal prep this soup?
Certainly! Prepare it ahead of time, and store it in the fridge for quick dinners throughout the week.
How do I make it spicier?
Feel free to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Conclusion
In just under 40 minutes, you can create a comforting Chicken and Gnocchi Soup that nourishes not only the body but the spirit. Imagine the laughter, warmth, and joy that’ll fill your kitchen as you enjoy this delectable dish with your loved ones. Let this be the meal you turn to time and time again, a recipe that builds memories and warmth with every bite. Grab your apron, share this recipe with family and friends, and invite them into your cozy kitchen conversation!
Contents
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option
- 1 pound potato gnocchi Store-bought for convenience, but feel free to try making your own
- 4 cups chicken broth Homemade broth works wonders, but store-bought is perfectly acceptable
- 1 cup heavy cream Or swap with half-and-half for a lighter version
- 1 cup fresh spinach Or swap with kale for a stronger flavor
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a soft simmer. Cook for around 10 minutes.
- Toss in your potato gnocchi and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded chicken. Stir until well combined, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Fold in the fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the spinach to wilt slightly before serving.
- Ladle your Chicken and Gnocchi Soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.