This creamy Tuscan chicken gnocchi soup is a hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and bright spinach, it’s a warm and comforting dish perfect for any day.
You might find yourself saying “Marry me!” after just one spoonful. I know I did! 😍 It’s easy to make and is great for cozy nights in or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for its rich flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or grapeseed oil work well too!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If you can’t find them, regular dried tomatoes can be rehydrated in hot water. Canned tomatoes are also a good substitute.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use cream cheese to add creaminess with fewer calories.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time, but homemade is delicious if you have time. You can also swap in pasta like tortellini for a change.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Chicken?
Cooking chicken properly is key for tenderness. Start by ensuring your pot is hot enough to sear the chicken without steaming it. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your olive oil in the pot before adding the chicken; it should shimmer when ready.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if needed.
Once done, let the chicken rest outside the pot before adding it back to the soup – this keeps it juicy!
How to Make Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mixed)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Crusty bread slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for this delicious soup—from prep to serving. This includes about 10 minutes to chop your ingredients and cook the chicken, then another 20 minutes to simmer everything together and infuse those lovely flavors. A quick, hearty meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. You want it to shimmer a bit, which means it’s hot enough!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pot. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook these for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and delightful!
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This will create a lovely base for your soup!
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once boiling, add the gnocchi. Follow the package instructions—usually about 2-3 minutes. They’re done when they float to the top!
6. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, the cooked chicken, dried Italian herbs, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Add Spinach:
Next, add the chopped spinach and cook until it’s wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. The spinach adds a lovely green touch!
8. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust it to your liking!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the soup into bowls while it’s hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you’d like. Serve it alongside crusty bread slices for dipping. Enjoy your cozy meal!
This creamy, flavorful soup features tender chicken, soft gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes with a herby, slightly spicy broth—perfect for cozy meals.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thoroughly thaw it before cooking. The best method is to defrost it overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, you can submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour. Pat dry before cooking to reduce moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream, which will still provide creaminess without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Avoid boiling, as this can overcook the gnocchi.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to ensure they cook through.
