Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a heartwarming Italian dish. This soup combines tender chicken and soft gnocchi in a creamy, flavorful broth, enriched with garlic and herbs for an authentic taste of Italy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it is ideal for lunch and dinner as a comforting meal.
What You’ll Find On This Page
This soup is not only easy to make but also flexible. You can add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or celery to boost its flavor and nutritional value. It pairs wonderfully with a piece of crusty bread, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, making it a great option for any meal.
Whether you're bringing the family together for a hearty meal or enjoying some comforting alone time, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a real treat. It's easy and quick to prepare, loaded with nutrition, and infused with that beloved Italian flavor.
Ingredients and Substitutions Overview
To make this delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you'll need a mix of simple Italian pantry essentials and fresh produce. Here are the key ingredients you'll need for this recipe.
- Boneless Chicken: Adds protein and a robust flavor. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, or even some leftover roasted or baked chicken.
- Gnocchi: These small dumplings, made from potato or flour, bring heartiness and texture to the dish.
- Spinach: Introduces a fresh, nutritious element with its leafy greens.
- Celery and Carrots: A classic pair that adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the soup.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory base. You can also use bone broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Gives the soup its creamy richness. For a lighter version, consider substituting with half-and-half.
- Onion and Garlic: These staples are crucial for adding depth and rich layers of flavor to the soup.
- Black Pepper and Chili Flakes: Add a gentle heat that complements the soup beautifully.
- Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme lend a fragrant aroma and an earthy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Offers a rich, nutty, and slightly salty taste, enhancing the umami profile of the soup.
- Butter and Olive Oil: These fats boost the richness and depth of flavor in the dish.
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup at Home?
Let's start making this delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Below, you'll find step-by-step photos and a video that guide you from sautéing vegetables to achieving a creamy finish, making it easy and fun to create this Italian classic. Let’s get cooking!
Discover More Comforting Chicken Soup Recipes:
- Hot and Sour Soup
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- Chicken Noodle Soup
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Chicken and Rice Soup
- Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
- Chicken Ramen
- Cream of Chicken Soup
- Tortellini Soup
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- White Chicken Chili
- Taco Soup
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- ¾ lb Boneless Chicken, small bite size pieces
- 2 cups Gnocchi
- 1 Onion, medium size, chopped
- 2 tsp Olive Oil
- 3 tsp Butter, unsalted
- 1½ tbsp Garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp Celery, finely chopped
- 1 Carrot, chopped
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- ½ tsp Chili Flakes
- ½ tsp Dried Thyme
- ½ tsp Dried Oregano
- Salt, to taste
- 3 cups Spinach, loosely packed
- 4 cups Chicken Broth, I have used reduced sodium bone broth
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Begin by heating oil and butter in a pan over medium heat until the butter melts completely.
- Add onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Then, add garlic and continue to sauté just until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery, and sauté until these vegetables are tender, enhancing the soup’s flavor base.
- Incorporate bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken along with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together and cook until the chicken turns pale and is partially cooked.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, add the gnocchi and cook until tender. The cooking time may vary, so it's best to follow the package instructions.
- Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts slightly, which adds a fresh flavor to the dish.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Your Chicken Gnocchi Soup is now ready to serve and enjoy.
Serving
- Enjoy this soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, grilled cheese, or your choice of roasted or baked vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. For more pairing ideas, check out our Serving Suggestions section below.
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Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Chicken Choices: Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, to ensure even cooking. You can also incorporate leftover roasted or baked chicken, or even rotisserie chicken for added convenience and flavor.
- Gnocchi Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi; they can become mushy. Stick to the package instructions for the best texture and results.
- Herbs: While dried herbs are quick and easy, switching to fresh herbs can significantly enhance the soup’s aroma and flavor, giving it a more vibrant and authentic taste.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño can nicely spice up the soup, adding an extra layer of flavor.
- For a Creamier Soup: To increase creaminess, whisk a tablespoon of all-purpose flour into the sautéed vegetables before adding the broth. Mix until smooth and well integrated for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the soup regularly and adjust the seasonings, especially salt and pepper, to match your preference, and ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking.
- Healthier Alternatives: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and skim milk instead of full-fat versions to make a healthier soup without sacrificing taste. These options help reduce the overall fat and sodium content.
- Vegetable Variations: Boost the soup’s nutrition and taste by adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas. These additions provide extra vitamins and minerals while enhancing the flavor and texture of the soup.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer
We're not nutrition experts, and the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Please use it as a guide. For precise details, it's best to consult a professional. To learn more, please view our Detailed Disclaimers.
Looking for more comforting dishes? Check out our collection of soothing soups and stews including chicken soups and hearty comfort food recipes, perfect for warming up during the winter season. Each dish is created to provide a cozy dining experience for your family.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing the meal experience. Here are some tasty options:
- Garlic Bread: Warm and crusty, perfect for dipping into the rich soup and absorbing its flavors.
- Croutons: Top the soup with crispy croutons for a unique texture contrast.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Nutritious choices like roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and carrots not only add texture but also boost the meal's health benefits.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A gooey, melted cheese sandwich makes for a hearty and satisfying complement.
- Crusty Baguette: Ideal for mopping up the flavorful broth, ensuring you enjoy every last drop.
Storage Suggestions
Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup warm for the best flavor. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they'll keep well for up to two days.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat until it's thoroughly warmed. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
For a quick option, you can also microwave the soup in a microwave-safe dish, covering it lightly and stirring every minute until hot.
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