Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and love, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying. This soup is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to bring the family together around the dinner table.

What makes this creamy goodness special is how easy it is to make. It fills your home with a delightful aroma, inviting everyone to gather for a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, even picky eaters will happily dive in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip up a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken, gnocchi, and fresh veggies makes every spoonful feel like home.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create your Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 6 carrots, chopped
• 4 celery stalks, chopped

For Flavor and Texture

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2-4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (see note)
• 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 pinch chili flakes
• 1 pinch each kosher salt and black pepper

For the Rest of the Soup

• 4-6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 4-6 cups baby spinach
• 1 1/2 cups canned coconut milk, heavy cream, or whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 pound fresh potato gnocchi

Variations

One of the best things about this creamy soup is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or use up what you have at home.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk exclusively without adding parmesan for a delicious vegan version.
• Change up the greens: Instead of spinach, you could use kale or Swiss chard—both add great nutrients!

How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a large soup pot set over medium heat, combine the olive oil and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant. This step helps develop flavor right from the start! Next, add in your chopped carrots and celery. Sauté these veggies for another 3 minutes. They’ll soften slightly and add depth to your soup.

Step 2: Create the Base

Now stir in the butter and flour. Cooking this mixture for just one minute will help thicken your soup later on. After that, toss in your chicken pieces along with garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. The spices will coat everything beautifully! Pour in about 4 cups of broth and let it simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes until your chicken is cooked through.

Step 3: Shred Your Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures every spoonful has tender chicken throughout.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir in your spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream (or milk), parmesan cheese, and gnocchi. Cook everything together until warmed throughout—about another 5 minutes should do it! If you find your soup too thick at any point, just add more broth until it’s just right.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup into bowls and sprinkle with additional parmesan if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread—perfect for dipping! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup

Making the perfect creamy gnocchi chicken soup is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors of your soup, making it more vibrant and aromatic.
• Cook the chicken properly – Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding. This not only ensures food safety but also helps lock in the moisture and flavor.
• Adjust broth for thickness – If your soup becomes too thick after adding the gnocchi, gradually add more broth to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Adding a bit of lemon zest or fresh herbs can brighten up the flavors even more.
• Let it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for a little longer after adding all ingredients helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup

When it comes to serving this comforting bowl of creamy gnocchi chicken soup, presentation can make a world of difference. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and enhances the aroma of your dish.
• Croutons or toasted bread crumbs – These add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping and complements the flavors of your soup wonderfully.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with this hearty soup.
• Cheesy Breadsticks – Soft and cheesy, these breadsticks are not only fun but also great for soaking up every last drop of that creamy goodness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a warming bowl of creamy gnocchi chicken soup. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can become a go-to dish for busy weeknights. Here’s how to keep your delicious soup fresh and ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If the soup thickens too much, you can add a splash of broth when reheating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool before placing it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for the best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost function.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little broth if necessary.
• Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan if desired!

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this comforting dish.

Can I make Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian version while maintaining that hearty texture.

How do I adjust the thickness of my Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup?

If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about making it just right for you!

What sides pair well with Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup?

A simple side salad or crusty bread makes great companions. Both add crunch and balance to the creamy soup!

Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly. There’s no need to thaw them; just toss them into the soup during cooking as directed.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and joy, perfect for those cooler days. Enjoy making this cozy dish, and I can’t wait for you to share how it turned out. Happy cooking!