Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian trattoria with every spoonful of this creamy, comforting masterpiece! Forget those bland, watery soups – this recipe is a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I’m going to show you how to make a bowl of pure comfort that will warm you from the inside out.

While the exact origins of Chicken Gnocchi Soup are debated, it draws inspiration from classic Italian soups like pasta e fagioli and stracciatella. Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and their pillowy texture adds a unique and satisfying element to this soup. It’s a modern twist on traditional flavors, blending the heartiness of chicken soup with the playful charm of gnocchi.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables. The richness of the cream is balanced by the savory chicken broth, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s also incredibly versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you might need to do this in batches to ensure proper browning. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.
2. Now, let’s tackle the vegetables. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not browned. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for our soup.
3. Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning. The aroma of garlic is one of my favorite parts of cooking!

Building the Soup Base

1. Time to add the liquids and seasonings! Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the soup.
2. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). The red pepper flakes add a nice little kick, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder soup. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This is a good time to prep any other ingredients or just relax for a bit.

Adding the Gnocchi and Finishing Touches

1. Now for the star of the show: the gnocchi! Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.
2. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir to combine. Make sure the chicken is heated through.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream adds richness and creaminess, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
4. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already salty, so you might not need much additional salt.

Serving the Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Ladle the Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. The parsley adds a pop of freshness and color, while the extra Parmesan cheese is always a welcome addition.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is best served hot.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Different Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Asiago or Romano cheese would also be delicious in this soup.
• Make Ahead: You can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to undercook the gnocchi slightly.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts yourself.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup while it’s simmering.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Fat: 25-35g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 100-150mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 5-10g
• Protein: 20-30g

Enjoy Your Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick and easy weeknight meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your household, especially during those chilly evenings when you need something hearty and satisfying.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Want to make it even more decadent? Stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving. For a lighter version, use skim milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. And if you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is your best friend – it cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Beyond the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth, or perhaps some chopped spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients. Sun-dried tomatoes would also be a fantastic addition, lending a tangy sweetness that complements the richness of the soup. You could even experiment with different types of gnocchi – potato gnocchi, sweet potato gnocchi, or even cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.

Serving suggestions? A crusty loaf of bread for dipping is an absolute must! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a lovely complement. And for a truly indulgent experience, top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. This soup is also fantastic reheated, so don’t worry about leftovers – they’ll be just as delicious the next day.

I truly believe that this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is a winner. It’s easy to follow, customizable, and delivers incredible flavor every single time. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again, and sharing with your loved ones.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do make it, please, please, please come back and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about your experience, any variations you tried, and how much your family enjoyed it. Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking! I am sure you will love this Chicken Gnocchi Soup.