Looking for a cozy meal that’s both filling and easy to make? This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is your answer! With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant veggies all in a rich broth, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. I’ll walk you through each step, from choosing the right ingredients to serving tips. Get ready to savor a delightful bowl of comfort that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium carrots, diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes
– Best chicken options: Use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy.
– Quality of broth: Choose a low-sodium chicken broth for a balanced flavor. Homemade broth adds depth if you have time.
– Homemade versus store-bought gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time. Homemade gnocchi can be lighter and fluffier.
Substitutions and Alternatives
– Dairy-free options for heavy cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free twist.
– Vegetable alternatives for added nutrition: Add zucchini, kale, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
For the complete recipe details, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, you need to dice your chicken and vegetables. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. Next, take your onion and chop it finely. Mince the garlic as well. For carrots, peel and dice them into small cubes. Finally, chop the celery into similar-sized pieces as the carrots.
Now, let’s sauté. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes. The veggies should soften and become aromatic. Next, stir in the dried thyme and oregano. Cook this for about a minute to release their flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Now, it’s time to simmer the gnocchi. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the gnocchi. Check the package instructions, as cooking usually takes just 2 to 3 minutes. You want the gnocchi to be soft but not mushy.
Then, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until everything is combined well. Next, add the chopped spinach. It will wilt in the warm soup. Stir it in gently.
Final Touches
Before serving, taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This step is key to making the soup flavorful.
For presentation, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. You can find the full recipe linked above for your convenience. Enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Advice
To avoid mushy gnocchi, do not overcook them. Just cook until they float. This usually takes only a few minutes. If you cook them too long, they may break apart.
Proper sautéing is key to bring out the best flavors. Use medium heat for the chicken and veggies. This helps to caramelize the onions and garlic. A nice golden color adds depth and taste.
Flavor Enhancement
You can enhance the flavor with more spices. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the soup. Consider a squeeze of lemon for a tangy note.
Need more protein? Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also use cooked sausage for a hearty touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm, crusty bread for a cozy meal. A simple green salad pairs nicely to balance the soup’s creaminess.
For leftovers, store in an airtight container. The soup stays fresh for about three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the creamy texture intact.
For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.
Variations
Dietary Variations
Gluten-free adaptations
You can make this soup gluten-free. Use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this option. Check the label to ensure it fits your needs. You can also thicken the soup with cornstarch instead of flour. This keeps the texture creamy and smooth.
Vegetarian option
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace chicken with beans or lentils for protein. You can add more veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. This adds flavor and nutrition to your soup.
Flavor Variations
Incorporating seasonal vegetables
Adding seasonal vegetables can change the taste. In spring, toss in asparagus or peas. In fall, consider butternut squash or sweet potatoes. These veggies add freshness and nutrition. They also make the soup more colorful and fun.
Spicy twist on the classic soup
Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños for a kick. This spicy twist will wake up your taste buds. Adjust the heat to match your preference.
International Influence
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup with a Mediterranean flair
Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean vibe. You can also use fresh basil instead of parsley. This change gives the soup a unique flavor. It transports your taste buds to sunny coasts.
Asian-inspired variations
To create an Asian twist, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Add ginger and soy sauce for depth. Top with green onions and cilantro for a fresh touch. This fusion makes the soup exciting and different.
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, use airtight containers. After it cools, pour it into a container and seal it tight. For the best taste, refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe bags or containers for freezing. This soup can last for about three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently. You can use a pot on the stove over low heat. Stir often so it heats evenly. You can also use a microwave, but do it in short bursts, stirring in between. To keep the creamy texture, avoid boiling the soup. Heat it just until warm.
Duration of Freshness
Eat your leftovers within three to four days if stored in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see mold or smell something off, it’s best to toss it. Enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup while it’s fresh for the best flavor! You can find the full recipe above.
FAQs
What is gnocchi made of?
Gnocchi is a type of pasta. It is often made from potatoes. Some gnocchi uses flour and eggs, while others use ricotta or semolina. The dough is rolled and cut into small pieces. These pieces have a soft, pillowy texture. You can find both store-bought and homemade gnocchi. Store-bought is quick and easy, while homemade can be fun to make.
Can I make creamy chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make creamy chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time. To do this, prepare the soup as directed. Let it cool before storing it. Keep the soup in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat it on low heat.
What can I serve with creamy chicken gnocchi soup?
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Crusty bread: A slice of fresh bread is perfect for dipping.
– Salad: A light green salad balances the soup’s creaminess.
– Roasted vegetables: Add nutrition and flavor with roasted veggies.
– Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan can add a nice touch.
These sides enhance the meal and make it more filling. For the full recipe, check the section above.
This blog post covered how to make a creamy chicken gnocchi soup. I shared ingredient lists, cooking steps, and tips for success. I also offered variations and storage advice.
Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. You can adjust flavors, use fresh ingredients, and try different options. Enjoy the tasty experience of creating this comforting meal. Keeping it fresh will add to your enjoyment.
![- 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 medium carrots, diced - 3 celery stalks, diced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade) - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Best chicken options: Use fresh boneless, skinless chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. - Quality of broth: Choose a low-sodium chicken broth for a balanced flavor. Homemade broth adds depth if you have time. - Homemade versus store-bought gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time. Homemade gnocchi can be lighter and fluffier. - Dairy-free options for heavy cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free twist. - Vegetable alternatives for added nutrition: Add zucchini, kale, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients. For the complete recipe details, check out the Full Recipe. To start, you need to dice your chicken and vegetables. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. Next, take your onion and chop it finely. Mince the garlic as well. For carrots, peel and dice them into small cubes. Finally, chop the celery into similar-sized pieces as the carrots. Now, let's sauté. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes. The veggies should soften and become aromatic. Next, stir in the dried thyme and oregano. Cook this for about a minute to release their flavors. Now, it’s time to simmer the gnocchi. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the gnocchi. Check the package instructions, as cooking usually takes just 2 to 3 minutes. You want the gnocchi to be soft but not mushy. Then, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until everything is combined well. Next, add the chopped spinach. It will wilt in the warm soup. Stir it in gently. Before serving, taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This step is key to making the soup flavorful. For presentation, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. You can find the full recipe linked above for your convenience. Enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup! To avoid mushy gnocchi, do not overcook them. Just cook until they float. This usually takes only a few minutes. If you cook them too long, they may break apart. Proper sautéing is key to bring out the best flavors. Use medium heat for the chicken and veggies. This helps to caramelize the onions and garlic. A nice golden color adds depth and taste. You can enhance the flavor with more spices. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the soup. Consider a squeeze of lemon for a tangy note. Need more protein? Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also use cooked sausage for a hearty touch. Serve with warm, crusty bread for a cozy meal. A simple green salad pairs nicely to balance the soup's creaminess. For leftovers, store in an airtight container. The soup stays fresh for about three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the creamy texture intact. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. {{image_2}} Gluten-free adaptations You can make this soup gluten-free. Use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this option. Check the label to ensure it fits your needs. You can also thicken the soup with cornstarch instead of flour. This keeps the texture creamy and smooth. Vegetarian option For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace chicken with beans or lentils for protein. You can add more veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. This adds flavor and nutrition to your soup. Incorporating seasonal vegetables Adding seasonal vegetables can change the taste. In spring, toss in asparagus or peas. In fall, consider butternut squash or sweet potatoes. These veggies add freshness and nutrition. They also make the soup more colorful and fun. Spicy twist on the classic soup Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños for a kick. This spicy twist will wake up your taste buds. Adjust the heat to match your preference. Creamy chicken gnocchi soup with a Mediterranean flair Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean vibe. You can also use fresh basil instead of parsley. This change gives the soup a unique flavor. It transports your taste buds to sunny coasts. Asian-inspired variations To create an Asian twist, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Add ginger and soy sauce for depth. Top with green onions and cilantro for a fresh touch. This fusion makes the soup exciting and different. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, use airtight containers. After it cools, pour it into a container and seal it tight. For the best taste, refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe bags or containers for freezing. This soup can last for about three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently. You can use a pot on the stove over low heat. Stir often so it heats evenly. You can also use a microwave, but do it in short bursts, stirring in between. To keep the creamy texture, avoid boiling the soup. Heat it just until warm. Eat your leftovers within three to four days if stored in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see mold or smell something off, it’s best to toss it. Enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup while it’s fresh for the best flavor! You can find the full recipe above. Gnocchi is a type of pasta. It is often made from potatoes. Some gnocchi uses flour and eggs, while others use ricotta or semolina. The dough is rolled and cut into small pieces. These pieces have a soft, pillowy texture. You can find both store-bought and homemade gnocchi. Store-bought is quick and easy, while homemade can be fun to make. Yes, you can make creamy chicken gnocchi soup ahead of time. To do this, prepare the soup as directed. Let it cool before storing it. Keep the soup in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat it on low heat. Creamy chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options: - Crusty bread: A slice of fresh bread is perfect for dipping. - Salad: A light green salad balances the soup's creaminess. - Roasted vegetables: Add nutrition and flavor with roasted veggies. - Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan can add a nice touch. These sides enhance the meal and make it more filling. For the full recipe, check the section above. This blog post covered how to make a creamy chicken gnocchi soup. I shared ingredient lists, cooking steps, and tips for success. I also offered variations and storage advice. Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. You can adjust flavors, use fresh ingredients, and try different options. Enjoy the tasty experience of creating this comforting meal. Keeping it fresh will add to your enjoyment.](https://savoryspiral.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/582fe45a-50c6-4dc5-9075-bfa18abb84a1-250x250.webp)