Warm, creamy, and oh-so-comforting, Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the hug in a bowl you need. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant veggies, this dish brings cozy vibes to any table. In just a few steps, you can create a meal that soothes the soul and delights the taste buds. Ready to cook up some comfort? Let’s dive into the easy ingredients and instructions!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated gnocchi
– 1 cup fresh kale or spinach, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
– Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
For this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, I focus on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken gives the soup a hearty base. The heavy cream adds richness, making every spoonful feel cozy.
I like to use low-sodium chicken broth. This way, I can control the salt level. Fresh vegetables, like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, bring flavor and texture.
The gnocchi are a game changer. They cook quickly and soak up the broth’s goodness. Adding kale or spinach boosts nutrients and color, making the dish more vibrant.
Italian seasoning adds warmth and depth. If you want an extra touch, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. It melts beautifully and enhances the soup’s flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to make a comforting meal that warms the soul.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pot.
– Add 1 pound of chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces.
– Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
– Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
– Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Sautéing the Vegetables
– In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks.
– Sauté the mix for 4 to 5 minutes. Cook until the veggies are tender and smell fragrant.
Building the Soup
– Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken broth.
– Bring the broth to a simmer over medium-high heat.
– Add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
– Stir in 16 oz of refrigerated gnocchi, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped kale, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
– Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
Final Cooking Phase
– Let the soup simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
– This helps the gnocchi cook and the soup thicken.
– Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, you can replace the chicken. Turkey works great and still gives that hearty flavor. For a plant-based option, try tofu. It soaks up the soup’s taste well. Instead of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth. This keeps it rich and adds a nice depth of flavor.
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing vegetables, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. Stir them often and watch for that nice tender look. To get the right creaminess in your soup, add the cream slowly. Stir it in gently to prevent curdling. This will help keep your soup smooth and delicious.
Enhancing Flavor
For extra flavor, think about adding spices like paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the soup. They add a lovely aroma, too. When serving, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top makes for a tasty finish. For a pop of color, add a few whole kale leaves as a garnish. This makes the dish look as good as it tastes!
Variations
Healthier Options
You can lighten up Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a few easy swaps. Use low-fat cream or a plant-based cream. This change cuts fat while keeping the soup creamy. You can also add more vegetables. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrients. These additions boost flavor and color, making the soup even better.
Different Protein Choices
This soup is not just for chicken. You can switch to seafood like shrimp. Cook the shrimp until pink, then add them to the soup. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms instead of chicken. Sauté the mushrooms until golden before adding them to the soup. Both options give you tasty and healthy choices.
Flavor Profile Changes
You can change the flavor by swapping seasoning blends. Try using curry powder for a warm twist. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil gives a fresh taste. For some heat, toss in hot peppers or spices. This adds a kick and makes the soup exciting. Each variation makes the soup your own!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your creamy chicken gnocchi soup in the fridge, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. This soup stays good for about three to four days. Just remember to label your container with the date.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do this before adding cream or gnocchi. The texture stays better this way. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to leave some space for expansion. It will last for about three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can also use a microwave for quicker thawing. Just be careful not to cook it.
Reheating Suggestions
For reheating, the stove is your best bet. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat. Stir it often to avoid sticking. If you need to use a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
If the soup loses creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream. This will bring back that rich texture. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep several steps in advance. Cook the chicken and set it aside. Sauté the veggies and store them in the fridge. You can also measure out your ingredients. When you are ready to eat, just combine everything and cook it. This saves time and makes dinner easy.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, this soup can freeze well. Store it in airtight containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. To thaw, put it in the fridge overnight. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a tasty twist. A side of roasted vegetables adds color and makes the meal complete.
Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought. Homemade gnocchi may add a lovely touch to the soup. Just make sure it is cooked properly before adding it to the pot.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it easily. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it in. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes to thicken. You can also add more heavy cream for extra richness.
This blog post outlined a delicious recipe for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. You learned about the key ingredients, including chicken, vegetables, and cream. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for enhancing flavor, and storage strategies. Explore variations tailored to your needs or preferences. Remember, cooking is about creativity. Don’t hesitate to try new ingredients or techniques. Enjoy making this comforting dish that warms both the heart and belly!
