Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, hearty dish that brings comfort in every spoonful. With tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich broth enhanced by aromatic vegetables and herbs, this soup is a guaranteed family favorite. It’s easy to make and perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
• 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk
• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Herbs

1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme and basil.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Simmer

1. Stir in the shredded chicken.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they’re done.

Step 5: Add Cream and Spinach

1. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring the soup doesn’t boil to prevent curdling.
2. Add the chopped spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

1. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or milk if needed.

Step 7: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair this soup with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or a loaf of crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy broth.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This soup is best enjoyed fresh, as the gnocchi may become mushy when frozen. If freezing, cook the gnocchi separately and add it when reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Homemade Gnocchi: For a special touch, make your own gnocchi from scratch. The fresh, fluffy texture elevates the dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

1. Giada De Laurentiis suggests adding a pinch of nutmeg to creamy soups for depth and warmth.
2. Ina Garten advises using high-quality chicken broth to ensure the best flavor base.
3. Thomas Keller recommends simmering soups gently to preserve the freshness of the vegetables and maintain the soup’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shredding a rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option.

2. What if I don’t have gnocchi?

Small pasta shapes like mini shells or ditalini can be used as a substitute.

3. How do I thicken the soup further?

Add a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water and simmer until thickened.

4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

5. How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

6. What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes.

7. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! Prepare the soup without the gnocchi, then cook and add the gnocchi just before serving for the best texture.

8. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Substitute with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

9. How long does gnocchi take to cook?

Gnocchi usually cooks in 3–5 minutes and will float to the top when done.

10. Can I add cheese to the soup base?

Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan for an extra creamy, cheesy flavor.