Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, look no further than this Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup. With tender pieces of chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a quick family dinner. The creamy broth enriches the flavors and makes every bite a delight. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Stir in shredded chicken and gnocchi, reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream, add spinach, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed, serve warm, and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pot
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté these ingredients until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Broth and Spices
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, then add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
Once boiling, stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and the entire package (16 oz) of gnocchi. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Spinach
After simmering, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 2 cups of fresh spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the soup warm and enjoy!
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider omitting the heavy cream and spinach until reheating for the best texture.
Chicken Options
You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas or corn, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Gnocchi Cooking
Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly; be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Cook techniques
Chopping vegetables
When preparing your soup, make sure to chop the onions, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend well into the soup’s texture.
Sautéing
Use medium heat to sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter. Sautéing helps to develop flavors as the vegetables soften and release their natural sugars.
Simmering
After adding the chicken broth and seasonings, bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together while cooking the gnocchi.
Stirring
When adding the gnocchi and shredded chicken, gently stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This helps prevent the gnocchi from sticking together.
Incorporating cream
When adding heavy cream to the soup, do it slowly while stirring to achieve a smooth, rich consistency without curdling.
Seasoning
Taste the soup at the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs as needed. This step is key to enhancing the overall flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly in the soup without thawing. Just add them directly to the simmering soup.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess of the soup.
What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers according to your preference.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance, but it’s best to add the gnocchi just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Conclusion
This 30-minute Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a creamy broth. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner, and its rich flavors make it a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy this satisfying meal with your loved ones and relish in the warmth and heartiness it brings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Gnocchi Soup
Substitute the chicken with assorted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Soup
Add cooked Italian sausage to the soup for a spicy twist and enhanced flavor.
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup
Incorporate crushed tomatoes and basil for a rich tomato-based variation of the classic soup.
Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Introduce a splash of lemon juice and zest to the mixture for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the dish.
Spicy Gnocchi and Spinach Soup
Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and extra flavor.
Mushroom and Thyme Gnocchi Soup
Mix in sautéed mushrooms and a hint of fresh thyme to bring earthy tones to your soup.
Cheesy Gnocchi Soup
Stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese right before serving for a rich, cheesy indulgence.