Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy broth filled with fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this hearty soup, offer tips for customization, and suggest variations to suit different dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, this soup comes together in under an hour.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with children.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for a family dinner, a cozy lunch, or as an impressive starter for guests.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Specific Brands or Types:
- Use store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
- Opt for organic chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle
- Whisk
Directions:
Preheat and Prepare:
- Melt the Butter: In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until the onions and celery are tender, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Reduce the heat to low, add the garlic, and cook for 1 minute while stirring.
Main Cooking Steps:
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the veggie mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly stir in the half and half and chicken broth, alternating between the two. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer until thickened.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the fresh thyme, potato gnocchi, and cooked chicken. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked and the soup is well combined.
- Finish with Spinach: Stir in the spinach and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Final Steps:
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey or tofu for a different protein. Replace half and half with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Cooking Method Alternatives: Prepare in a slow cooker by adding all ingredients except for the gnocchi and spinach. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the gnocchi and spinach in the last 30 minutes.
- Dietary Modifications: For gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and flour. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
Storing Leftovers:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Food and Drink Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or garlic bread.
- Suitable Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, a light beer, or a refreshing iced tea.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container.
- How do I know when the soup is done? The soup is ready when the gnocchi is tender and the soup is heated through.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, small pasta shapes like mini shells or orzo work well as substitutes.
Call to Action:
Give this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe a try! It’s a simple, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let us know how it turns out in the comments, and don’t forget to share your own variations and tips!