Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms your belly and delights your taste buds. It combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a creamy broth. This soup is not only delicious but also relatively easy to make, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken if you have any!

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup is simple and quick. Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 stick of celery (diced)
• ½ cup carrots (julienned)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups diced cooked chicken)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 16 oz. potato gnocchi (in the pasta aisle)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and chicken broth until combined.
5. Add thyme, mustard powder, and season with salt and pepper.
6. If using raw chicken breast, add it now and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked. If using cooked chicken, add it later.
7. Stir in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
8. Add the spinach and stir until wilted. Incorporate the cooked chicken if you used that option.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Serve warm.

How to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serve your Chicken Gnocchi Soup hot in bowls. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top will also enhance the taste. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Chicken Gnocchi Soup

To store Chicken Gnocchi Soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The gnocchi may absorb some of the broth, so you may want to add a bit of water or chicken broth when reheating.

Tips to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• If you want a thicker soup, you can add a little more flour or blend some of the soup and return it to the pot.
• Feel free to add more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, to boost the nutrition.
• For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Variation

You can easily customize Chicken Gnocchi Soup by adding different proteins like shrimp or using vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. You could also switch to different types of pasta if gnocchi is not available.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes! Frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.

Q: Is this soup good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just store it in portions and reheat when ready to eat.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! You can follow a similar method but add all the ingredients except the gnocchi and spinach to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add gnocchi and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.