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This creamy chicken and gnocchi soup is warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. With tender chicken and soft gnocchi, it’s like a big hug in a bowl!
I mean, who can resist gnocchi? It just floats in the soup like little clouds. I always find myself going back for seconds—or even thirds! 😄
Making this soup is super easy! I love how it all comes together in one pot. Perfect for cozy nights when you need something quick and delicious!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds great flavor and works well for sautéing. You could switch to avocado oil or vegetable oil if you need a neutral flavor or have dietary restrictions.
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for depth in this soup. If you’re short on onions, shallots make a nice substitute, or you can use a mix of leeks and green onions.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi makes this recipe quick. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make fresh gnocchi from scratch using potatoes and flour, or use small pasta like mini shell or orzo as an alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, try half-and-half, or if you’re looking for a dairy-free version, coconut milk or cashew cream works nicely, although the flavor will change a bit.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh is best for its vibrant flavor and color, but you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
How Do You Cook Tender Chicken for Soup?
Getting the chicken just right is key. You want it cooked through but still juicy. Start by browning the chicken cubes after the vegetables. Use a medium heat so the chicken sears nicely without burning.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-8 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
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How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
What You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken and Gnocchi Soup takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and comforting dish that’s sure to warm your heart—perfect for a cozy evening at home!
Instructions:
First things first, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion and carrots. Sauté those lovely veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they’re nice and tender. This step really helps to build flavor, so don’t skimp on the sautéing!
Next up is the garlic! Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant, making your kitchen smell heavenly. This is the part where the magic really begins!
Now, let’s add some protein! Carefully add the cubed chicken into the pot. Sprinkle it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and those optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. Cook the chicken for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned. You want to seal in all those delicious flavors!
Time to make it soupy! Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will give the chicken a chance to fully cook and soak up all those tasty flavors.
After 10 minutes, stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. This is where the soup becomes all creamy and comforting!
Next, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they start to float to the top. Floating gnocchi means they’re ready to rock and roll!
Now, for that fresh touch, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook until it’s wilted—just around 2 minutes. You want that bright green color to pop in your soup!
Almost there! Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Every bowl should be perfectly seasoned to your liking!
Finally, serve this creamy delight hot and garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a dash of color. Enjoy your cozy and creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with a side of crusty bread or just on its own—it’s comfort in a bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first. The best method is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the sealed plastic bag with chicken in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, pat it dry before cubing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the soup will be less creamy. For an even lighter version, consider using unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream, but they will alter the flavor a bit.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens as it sits, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would all make excellent additions. Just chop them into similar sizes as the carrots and add them to the pot when you sauté the onion and carrots to ensure they’re cooked through.
