Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Easy and Cozy Recipe

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food. This easy recipe brings together tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a rich, savory broth. Whether it’s a chilly day or you just need a quick meal, you can whip this dish up in no time. Join me as I guide you through the simple steps to create this cozy delight!

Ingredients

Cooking creamy chicken gnocchi soup is simple and fun. Here’s everything you need:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 carrots, sliced

– 2 celery sticks, diced

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 pound potato gnocchi

– 2 cups fresh spinach

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to make a warm, tasty soup.Each item plays a key role in building flavor and texture, from the hearty chicken to the delicate gnocchi. Don’t skip the fresh spinach; it adds color and nutrition. Use fresh parsley for a beautiful finish. Enjoy cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Process

1. Sauté onion and garlic

In a large pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one medium diced onion. Cook until it turns clear, about five minutes. Next, stir in two minced garlic cloves. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add vegetables and chicken

Now, add two sliced carrots and two diced celery sticks to the pot. Let them cook for three to four minutes until they soften. Then, add one pound of diced chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and one teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for five to seven minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

3. Pour in broth and cook gnocchi

When the chicken is done, pour in four cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add one pound of potato gnocchi to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about three to four minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when ready.

4. Incorporate cream and spinach

Finally, stir in one cup of heavy cream and two cups of fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt for about two minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes. This helps it thicken slightly before serving.Enjoy your cozy soup!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Soup

– Using fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients bring out the best flavors. Choose ripe vegetables and high-quality chicken. Fresh herbs like thyme and oregano can make a big difference too.

– Importance of seasoning: Seasoning is key. Add salt and pepper gradually as you cook. Taste often to balance flavors. This step makes your soup truly shine.

– Best practices for cooking gnocchi: Cook gnocchi until they float. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooked gnocchi gets mushy. Keep an eye on them while they cook.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the gnocchi: If you cook gnocchi too long, they can lose their texture. Aim for that perfect, tender bite. Set a timer to help you remember.

– Neglecting to taste for seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. You might need a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon. Adjusting flavors at the end makes a big impact.

– Skipping the resting time: Letting the soup rest helps thicken it. It allows flavors to meld together. This step can make your soup even more delicious.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change some ingredients in this soup to fit your needs. If you want to skip heavy cream, use half-and-half or whole milk. These options cut the fat but still keep the soup creamy. You can also try coconut milk for a dairy-free choice.

For veggies, mix it up! Instead of carrots and celery, use zucchini or bell peppers. These add color and flavor. You can also toss in frozen peas or corn for a sweet touch.

If you want to swap out chicken, consider using dumplings or beans. These options are hearty and add a nice texture. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Flavor Variations

To make your soup more exciting, add spices for heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. You can also use paprika for a smoky flavor.

Incorporating cheese makes the soup even creamier. Try stirring in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese. This adds depth and richness to the dish.

Using homemade stock enhances the flavor. Homemade stock is often more flavorful than store-bought. If you use store-bought, choose low-sodium options to control salt levels.These variations make the soup fun to personalize!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy chicken gnocchi soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure they seal tightly. This helps to keep air out and flavors in.

Store the soup in the fridge. It’s best to cool it to room temperature first. Once cooled, place it in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is easy. The best method is to use the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and heat on low. Stir often to warm it evenly.

To avoid separation of the cream, heat slowly. If it gets too hot too fast, the cream might split. You can also add a splash of broth or milk while reheating.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for the soup to expand. This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers!

FAQs

Common Questions About Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes great when reheated.Allow it to cool before putting it in a container.

Is it possible to freeze this soup?

You can freeze this soup, but it may change texture. The cream can separate when thawed. To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Place it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with garlic bread for a cozy meal.

Nutritional Information

Approximate caloric content

One serving of this soup has about 400 calories. This may vary based on ingredient choices.

Breakdown of macros per serving

– Protein: 25g

– Carbohydrates: 40g

– Fat: 15g

Health benefits of main ingredients

– Chicken: Provides lean protein for muscle health.

– Spinach: Packed with vitamins and minerals.

– Carrots: High in fiber and good for eyesight.

– Potato gnocchi: A tasty source of carbohydrates for energy.

This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a warm dish made with simple ingredients. We covered how to sauté veggies, cook chicken, and add gnocchi. Remember fresh ingredients bring out the best flavors. Avoid common mistakes like overcooking the gnocchi and skipping seasoning. You can also tweak the recipe with different veggies or proteins. Store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. This soup is perfect anytime. Consider trying it to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.