Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever wanted a warm hug in a bowl, this is it! I’m talking about Chicken Gnocchi Soup. I absolutely adore this recipe because it combines tender chunks of chicken with fluffy, pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth. Each spoonful is comforting and satisfying — perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little pick-me-up. This soup has been a staple in my family for years, and now I’d love to share it with you!
I remember the first time I made this soup. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was rummaging through my pantry looking for the perfect dinner idea. As soon as I stumbled upon the gnocchi, I knew I had to make something delicious. While I stirred the soup on the stove, the delightful aroma filled my kitchen, bringing my family running. I couldn’t help but chuckle as my kids shuffled in like little puppies, asking, “What’s for dinner?” Trust me, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation!
What’s in Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Let’s break down the magic behind this soul-warming soup!
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience. Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut — it works wonderfully!
Gnocchi: These adorable little dumplings are the heart and soul of the soup. I buy store-bought gnocchi, as it’s super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade is phenomenal!
Carrots: Chopped and added for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. They balance so well with the creaminess of the soup.
Celery: This crunchy addition provides a great texture and flavor base.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen, spinach adds a lovely pop of green and nutrients! It wilts beautifully in the hot soup.
Onion & Garlic: These two are essential for flavor! Sautéing them releases aromatic goodness that deepens the soup’s flavor.
Broth: Chicken broth is a must-have! It adds a rich flavor that ties all the ingredients together. I usually go for low-sodium to keep it healthier.
Heavy Cream: Ah, the secret to creaminess! This ingredient makes the broth luxuriously rich and comforting.
Is Chicken Gnocchi Soup Good for You?
This Chicken Gnocchi Soup not only warms the heart but also provides some great health benefits!
Chicken: Packed with protein, it helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Spinach: Loaded with vitamins A, C, K, and iron, it’s great for your skin and bones.
Gnocchi: While these little dumplings can be a bit starchy, the carb content makes them a good source of energy.
One thing to consider, though, is the heavy cream — it does add calories. But hey, sometimes you just need that comforting bowl of deliciousness, right? If you want to lighten it up, you could substitute milk or use a lower-fat cream version.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or rotisserie chicken)
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
*Serves: 4-6 people*
How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re translucent.
2. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute more. Be careful not to burn it — nobody likes burnt garlic!
3. Add the diced chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Now add the diced carrots and celery, stirring occasionally for another 4-5 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, gently add the gnocchi. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes or until the gnocchi floats to the top.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and spinach, letting everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips
To make this dish even more delightful, consider serving it with crusty bread or warm biscuits on the side. Trust me — you’ll want something to soak up that delicious broth!
If you want to switch things up, feel free to toss in other veggies like peas or mushrooms. And if you’re a fan of herbs, fresh dill or thyme can elevate those flavors even more!
Wrapping it up, I truly encourage you to give this Chicken Gnocchi Soup a try. I have a feeling you’ll fall in love with it just like I did. When you do make it, I’d love for you to share your experience or any fun variations you added. Happy cooking!
