This Gnocchi Chicken Soup is a cozy, hearty, and creamy dish that’s perfect for cold days or when you’re craving comfort food. The soft potato gnocchi combined with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth creates a satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this comforting soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 cups Half & Half
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 2½ cups cooked chicken, diced
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Begin by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and the onions become translucent.
- Add the Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat them. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. This will help thicken the soup later.
- Add Chicken Broth and Half & Half:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and Half & Half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally as it begins to thicken.
- Cook the Gnocchi:
- Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Continue simmering for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface and is fully cooked. The gnocchi will absorb some of the flavors of the soup as it cooks.
- Incorporate Chicken and Spinach:
- Stir in the diced cooked chicken and fresh spinach leaves. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
- Season the Soup:
- Add the fresh thyme, and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, ladle the Gnocchi Chicken Soup into bowls. Serve it hot with optional garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan cheese, crusty bread, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Gnocchi Chicken Soup:
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for convenience, or you can cook and shred the chicken beforehand if you prefer. Leftover chicken works well in this recipe too.
- Potato gnocchi can be found in most grocery stores, either in the fresh pasta section or in vacuum-sealed packages. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make homemade gnocchi from scratch for an even more authentic touch.
- Half & Half adds a rich and creamy texture without making the soup too heavy. If you want an even creamier soup, you can use heavy cream instead, or for a lighter version, substitute with whole milk.
Serving Suggestions:
- Crusty bread or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this soup, making it a complete meal.
- A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
- Top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or kale for added heartiness.
- Make it gluten-free: Ensure the potato gnocchi and all-purpose flour are gluten-free, or use a gluten-free flour alternative for thickening the soup.
- Add bacon: For extra flavor, sauté a few strips of chopped bacon until crispy, then remove from the pot before adding the vegetables. Stir the bacon bits into the soup at the end for a smoky touch.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, note that the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly when reheated. Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
This Gnocchi Chicken Soup is a perfect combination of creamy comfort and hearty ingredients. The soft, pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and fresh spinach make it an irresistible meal that’s not only filling but also rich in flavor. Whether you’re making this soup for a family dinner, meal prep, or to warm up on a chilly day, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes and toppings for a delightful experience!
