Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a classic Italian dish, combines chicken, gnocchi, broth, cream, garlic, and herbs for a hearty, creamy flavor. Variations include spinach, carrots, or celery for extra texture and depth. This homemade soup, ready in under 30 minutes, makes a satisfying main course and pairs well with bread, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
Start by heating oil and butter in a medium pan over medium heat until the butter melts.
Add onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Then, add garlic, continuing to sauté briefly until it becomes fragrant.
Add the carrots, celery and saute until the veggies turn tender.
Add small bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken, salt, black pepper, chili flakes, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together until the chicken turns pale in color and begins to cook.
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 recommended to follow the package instructions.
Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream. Simmer the mixture for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add spinach and grated parmesan cheese to the soup. Cook until the cheese melts and the spinach slightly wilts.
Remove the chicken gnocchi soup from the heat and it is now ready to serve.
To Serve
Serve this soup alongside crusty bread, garlic bread, grilled cheese, or your choice of roasted or baked vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
Chicken Choices: Opt for boneless breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Leftover roasted chicken, baked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken are also great options.
Herbs: While I've used dried herbs for convenience, fresh herbs can elevate the soup with a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
Gnocchi Cooking: Avoid overcooking the gnocchi to prevent them from becoming mushy. Follow the package instructions closely.
Healthier Alternatives: Use low-sodium chicken broth and skim milk as substitutes for a healthier version.
For a Creamier Soup: Add a tablespoon of flour to the sautéed vegetables before the broth for extra creaminess. Stir until well blended.
Vegetable Variations: Enhance nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas.
Seasoning Adjustments: Regularly taste and adjust seasonings to suit your preference, especially salt and pepper.