Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Made Simple

Chicken and gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a flavorful broth to create a meal that's perfect any time of year. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a soup enthusiast, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting chicken and gnocchi soup:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Add the dried thyme and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi and Chicken

1. Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook until they float to the top, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half).
2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted about 2 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Tips for Perfect Soup

• Season well: Don’t be afraid to add more salt and pepper if needed. Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors.
• Don't overcook the gnocchi: Once they float to the top, they are done. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Fresh is best: Use fresh spinach and herbs if possible for a more vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and gnocchi soup is perfect on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Add a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Conclusion

Chicken and gnocchi soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy night or a special family dinner. We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on social media.

Happy cooking!