Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Introduction

Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich creamy broth, making it a delicious and filling meal. Thanks to the Instant Pot, it can be prepared quickly and easily, providing a satisfying option for busy cooks.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Gnocchi: 16 ounces of store-bought gnocchi
Carrots: 2 medium carrots, diced
Celery: 2 stalks of celery, diced
Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Spinach: 2 cups of fresh spinach
Chicken broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
Heavy cream: 1 cup of heavy cream
Seasonings: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Prep Time

The prep time for this Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is about 15 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, chopping vegetables, and preparing the chicken.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is approximately 20 minutes in the Instant Pot. The total time, including prep, is around 35 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it a great option for families or meal prep.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients before starting the cooking process to ensure a smooth experience.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Then, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Stir until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the vegetables are tender, add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken

Add diced chicken breast to the pot, stirring to combine it with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pot to ensure nothing is stuck, as this can cause the Instant Pot to give a burn warning.

Step 7: Pressurize the Soup

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Select high pressure and cook for 7 minutes.

Step 8: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting.

Step 9: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

After the pressure is released, open the lid and add the gnocchi and fresh spinach to the pot. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 10: Simmer the Soup

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked and the spinach is wilted.

Step 11: Finish with Cream

Pour in heavy cream and mix thoroughly. Allow the soup to heat through and then serve.

Notes

Storage Recommendations

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tips

This soup can be frozen; however, the texture of the gnocchi may change upon thawing. It is recommended to store the soup without gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Alternative Proteins

You can substitute chicken with turkey or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.

Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal option.

Cook techniques

Using the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows for quick cooking under pressure. It helps to infuse flavors rapidly, making it perfect for soups like chicken gnocchi.

Sautéing Ingredients

Sautéing ingredients beforehand enhances the flavors of the soup. This technique allows for a deeper taste, as it caramelizes the onions and garlic before adding the other components.

Pressure Cooking

Pressure cooking significantly reduces the cooking time while ensuring that the chicken remains tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. Follow the recommended pressure time to achieve the best results.

Using Frozen Gnocchi

Adding frozen gnocchi directly to the soup saves time and ensures that you can enjoy this dish without the need to prepare the gnocchi separately.

Thickening the Soup

If you prefer a creamier texture, incorporating cream at the end of the cooking process can help to thicken the soup and enhance its richness.

FAQ

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi. Just keep in mind that it may require a shorter cooking time compared to frozen gnocchi.

What can I substitute for the chicken?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even use a plant-based chicken alternative if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

How long does the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, the soup can be frozen. It’s best to store it in individual portions for easy reheating later.

What can I serve with chicken gnocchi soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and delicious option that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or meal prep, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. This hearty soup is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

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