This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, cozy dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh veggies all in a creamy broth. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!
I love how this soup is both filling and comforting. It’s perfect on chilly days, and I often find myself going back for seconds—because who can resist? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps cook the veggies. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil works well too. I prefer olive oil as it gives a nice taste.
Onion: A small yellow onion is ideal for sweetness. If you’re short on onions, shallots can give a similar flavor, or even a leak in a pinch.
Potato Gnocchi: This is the real star! Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi for best results. If you can’t find it, you could use any small pasta, but it won’t be quite the same.
Heavy Cream: This provides richness to the soup. You could use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option, though it’ll change the flavor a bit. I love using heavy cream for that silky texture!
Fresh Spinach: Adds freshness and color. If spinach isn’t available, kale or even frozen spinach will do, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
How Do You Get the Best Flavors in Your Soup?
Getting the flavors just right in Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about layering them correctly. Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil. This step is crucial as it develops the base flavors.
- Be sure not to rush this step—let the veggies soften and release their flavors for about 5 minutes.
- Adding the chicken and seasonings later helps meld those flavors together beautifully during the simmer.
- Always taste the soup before serving! Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
These small steps make a big difference in creating a rich, comforting soup! Enjoy making it!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 sprig fresh)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they are nice and soft. The aroma will be fantastic!
2. Add the Broth:
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring your mixture to a gentle boil. This will create a flavor-packed base for your soup!
3. Add Chicken and Herbs:
Next, add the shredded chicken, dried rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully—don’t skip this step!
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Now it’s time to add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the top!
5. Stir in Cream and Spinach:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream along with the fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Every palate is different, so make it just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Gnocchi Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this creamy, comforting bowl of goodness!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and can save you time. Just shred or chop it and add it to the soup as directed.
Can I Substitute Gnocchi with Another Pasta?
You can, but keep in mind that it will change the texture of your soup. Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo would work fine as a substitute, just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of extra broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can replace the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning as needed, as coconut milk has a distinct flavor.
