Name: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3-4 pieces chicken breasts (cooked and chunked); 2 large carrots (peeled and grated); 1-2 cups broccoli (chunks); 6 teaspoons minced garlic; 2-3 tablespoons olive oil; 7 cups water; 8 pieces chicken bullion cubes; 1 16-ounce package potato gnocchi; 1 cup spinach (chopped); 4 cups half and half; 1 tablespoon thyme; ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons butter; ¼ cup cold water; 5 tablespoons cornstarch; salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup. I remember the first time I had it; it was a chilly winter evening, and I was craving something hearty and satisfying. My friend invited me over, and as soon as I walked through the door, the aroma of simmering broth filled the air. The blend of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables was enough to make anyone feel at home. I couldn’t wait to dig in! Each spoonful was a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the gnocchi adding a touch of chewiness that paired perfectly with the creamy broth. This dish quickly became a favorite in my recipe repertoire, and I’m excited to share my take on it with you.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Peeler, Large Pot, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Chicken Gnocchi Soup Is So Good

Comfort in a Bowl

The first reason why I love Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its incredible comfort factor. On cold, wintry days, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of soup. It feels like a big hug in a dish! The creamy broth wraps around every piece of chicken and gnocchi, making each bite a warm embrace that instantly lifts my spirits.

Hearty and Filling

Another standout feature is how hearty and filling this soup is. The combination of chicken, fresh vegetables, and gnocchi transforms it from a simple soup into a satisfying meal. You won’t find yourself hungry an hour later; instead, you’ll feel pleasantly full and content.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make a delicious pot of Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you don’t have much time but still want something homemade and flavorful.

Versatile and Customizable

This soup is also incredibly versatile. If you’re looking to incorporate different flavors or use up ingredients, the possibilities are endless! You can add your favorite vegetables, adjust the level of creaminess, or even spice it up a bit. It’s a fantastic way to experiment with what you have on hand.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Lastly, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge, and the flavors meld together beautifully after a day or two. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week, saving both time and effort.

Ingredients Overview for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

The ingredients in Chicken Gnocchi Soup come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and soft gnocchi creates a delightful balance that warms the soul. Let’s delve into the key players that make this soup a must-try.

3-4 chicken breasts – Cooked and chunked, these provide the protein base and hearty flavor for the soup.
2 large carrots – Peeled and grated, they add sweetness and a pop of color.
1-2 cups broccoli – Chunks of fresh broccoli bring a nutritious crunch.
6 teaspoons minced garlic – This aromatic ingredient infuses the soup with a beautiful depth of flavor.
2-3 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing, it adds richness.
7 cups water – The base of the broth, providing a light and comforting liquid.
8 chicken bullion cubes – These enhance the broth’s flavor, making it savory and robust.
1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi – The star of the show, giving the soup its character and chewiness.
1 cup spinach – Chopped, it contributes freshness and a vibrant green color.
4 cups half and half – This creamy addition makes the broth rich and luscious.
1 tablespoon thyme – Dried thyme adds an earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg – A subtle hint of nutmeg enhances the overall warmth of the soup.
1 tablespoon sugar – Balances the savory notes of the broth.
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor.
¼ cup cold water – Used later in the process to thicken the soup.
5 tablespoons cornstarch – This is the thickening agent that gives the soup its creamy texture.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting pot of soup that you’ll want to share with friends and family. Let’s get started!

Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the grated carrots, broccoli, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture for about 5 to 8 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Once the vegetables are tender, pour in the water and add the chicken bullion cubes. Stir thoroughly, allowing the cubes to dissolve in the hot liquid, creating a flavorful broth.
Next, add the chunked chicken to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s essential to ensure the chicken is heated through and well combined with the broth.
Afterward, introduce the gnocchi to the soup, letting it boil again. The gnocchi will cook quickly, typically taking about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top.
Now, chop and toss in the spinach. This adds a fresh touch and a splash of color to your soup.
Pour in the half and half, followed by the thyme, nutmeg, sugar, and butter. Stir the mixture to combine everything seamlessly. Allow it to come to another boil, enriching the flavors.
In a separate small bowl, mix cold water with the cornstarch to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously as you bring it back to a boil. You’ll notice the soup thickening beautifully.
Finally, season your Chicken Gnocchi Soup with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking—don’t be shy with the seasonings!

Things Worth Knowing

To achieve the best flavor, make sure to sauté the vegetables until they’re just tender, as this helps release their natural sweetness.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch you use in the slurry.
Using homemade chicken broth instead of water and bullion can elevate the flavor even further.
For a little extra depth, try adding a splash of lemon juice at the end—it brightens up the whole dish!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Creating the perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be a breeze with these helpful tips. Let’s dive into some suggestions to make your soup even better!

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the gnocchi may become mushy upon thawing. If possible, freeze the broth and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Additions: Consider adding different vegetables like zucchini or peas to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top before serving for a fresh finish.

Serving Options for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

When it comes to serving Chicken Gnocchi Soup, there are plenty of ways to elevate the experience. Here are some enjoyable serving options:

Crispy Bread: Serve with slices of toasted baguette or garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
Salad Pairing: A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements this soup beautifully.
Occasions: This soup is perfect for cozy winter nights, family gatherings, or even holiday dinners!
Leftover Enjoyment: Leftover soup makes for a quick and convenient lunch option the next day—just reheat and enjoy!
Seasonal Variations: In the summer, you could swap in seasonal vegetables like fresh corn or zucchini for a lighter version.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen and improve when the soup rests. Just remember to add the gnocchi closer to serving time, as they can become mushy if cooked too long. Simply reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!

While you can freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s not recommended to freeze the gnocchi in the soup as they may lose their texture. Instead, freeze the base of the soup without the gnocchi, and when you’re ready to eat, make fresh gnocchi to add to the reheated broth. This way, you maintain the perfect texture!

Some excellent side dishes to complement Chicken Gnocchi Soup include a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, garlic bread, or even a simple vegetable platter. These sides provide a nice balance to the hearty soup and can make for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with your pairings!

Definitely! Chicken Gnocchi Soup is quite versatile. You can add or substitute various vegetables like zucchini, peas, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is tender and delicious.

Conclusion

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup truly stands out as a comforting and hearty dish perfect for winter nights. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a warm hug in a bowl that will leave you craving more!