This hearty soup is a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out. With its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite for many. Not only is it filled with wholesome ingredients, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia for beloved dining experiences.
Why you’ll love this dish
The delightful combination of flavors in this soup makes it truly special. You’ll savor the blend of herbs, creamy textures, and hearty chicken in every spoonful. Plus, the gnocchi adds a unique touch that elevates the dish and makes it feel indulgent.
"This soup tastes just like what I remember from the restaurant! It’s delicious and a wonderful way to brighten up a chilly day."
With the ability to be prepared in the comfort of your own kitchen, it’s easier to enjoy a sumptuous experience without the restaurant wait!
The cooking process explained
The soup comes together beautifully with just a few steps. You’ll start by cooking the chicken and aromatics, then add in the gnocchi and broth, allowing everything to simmer until the flavors meld. A swirl of cream at the end brings everything together for that rich finish.
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Total Time: 50 min
What you’ll need
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon parsley, dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or add more vegetables like carrots or peas for a heartier blend!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced chicken, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the gnocchi. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface.
- Stir in the heavy cream and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then serve hot.
Best ways to enjoy it
To enjoy this warming soup, top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with a crispy, warm baguette or a light salad for a complete meal. The richness of the soup paired with a fresh side brings balance to your dining experience!
Storage and reheating tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating.
Helpful cooking tips
When cooking the chicken, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. If you find it adhering to the pot, don’t rush; allowing it to brown slightly will add depth of flavor. Also, for extra creaminess, you can blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in before serving!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding in different vegetables like carrots or mushrooms, or use different types of broth for unique flavors. For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative. You can also incorporate different herbs if you’re looking to switch up the flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just add them directly to the pot without thawing.
How can I make this vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced chicken, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the gnocchi. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface.
- Stir in the heavy cream and spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then serve hot.
