This warm and cozy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is like a big hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh veggies, it’s both hearty and comforting.
What’s great is how easy it is to make! Just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I enjoy using butter for a richer flavor, but olive oil is a great option for a lighter taste. You can even use coconut oil for a dairy-free version!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is my go-to to control the saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works too – just be sure to adjust seasonings as needed!
Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi is convenient, but feel free to swap it for whole wheat gnocchi or even fresh gnocchi if you have it. If gluten is an issue, gluten-free gnocchi is widely available.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, you can replace it with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream!
How Do You Ensure Great Flavor in the Soup?
Building flavor is crucial for this soup! Start by sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery; this is your flavor base. Cooking them until soft releases their natural sugars, creating a savory depth.
- Make sure to stir frequently and watch the heat to avoid burning the garlic when you add it.
- Let the chicken and herbs simmer for at least 10 minutes; this allows the broth to absorb all those flavors.
Finally, adding the cream and spinach at the end keeps them fresh and vibrant in the soup. Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Bread or rolls for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Make sure to stir continuously during this step to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Incorporate the Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. The aroma will be fantastic!
4. Add Chicken and Herbs:
Once boiling, stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Afterwards, add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top. This means they’re cooked and ready!
6. Mix in Cream and Spinach:
Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the fresh spinach leaves. Continue to cook on low heat until the spinach has wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This gives the soup that creamy, luscious texture.
7. Season:
Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. This is your chance to adjust the flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan if you like, and pair it with some crusty bread or rolls. Enjoy this delicious, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen vegetables! Just add them directly to the pot along with the broth. They may take a couple of extra minutes to cook, but they’ll work great in the soup!
What If I Don’t Have Rotisserie Chicken?
No problem! You can use any cooked chicken that you have on hand or quickly poach some chicken breasts in the broth before shredding them. Just ensure they’re fully cooked!
Can I Make ThisSoup Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add extra vegetables or beans for protein, and the soup will still be delicious!
How Long Does This Soup Last in the Fridge?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture!
