When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits. I’m excited to share my favorite recipe: Savory Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and vibrant veggies in a creamy broth. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this meal is sure to please. Let’s dive into the warmth of this comfort food!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 6 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 medium carrots, sliced
– 3 stalks celery, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh spinach, chopped
– Dried thyme and oregano
Dairy and Fats
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
– Salt and pepper to taste
When I make chicken and gnocchi soup, I focus on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken gives a hearty base. I like using boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner option. You can cook it quickly and it stays tender.
Gnocchi adds a lovely texture. You can buy it at the store or make your own if you feel adventurous. The fluffy pillows of potato dough soak up all the flavors.
Chicken broth is essential. It provides rich taste and depth to the soup. I always choose low-sodium broth. This way, I control the salt content better.
Next, I love adding vegetables. Onion, carrots, and celery create a classic mirepoix. They add sweetness and crunch. Garlic gives a punch of flavor. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition.
Herbs like thyme and oregano bring warmth. They remind me of cozy meals on chilly nights.
Finally, I use olive oil for cooking. It adds a nice richness. Half-and-half or heavy cream makes the soup creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for your perfect flavor balance.
You can find the full recipe for this hearty chicken and gnocchi soup in the article. Enjoy creating a bowl of comfort!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
– First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast and cook it until it turns golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for later use.
Cook the Vegetables
– In the same pot, add 1 medium diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 3 sliced carrots, and 3 sliced celery stalks.
– Sauté the veggies for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
– Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Combining the Ingredients
– Now, add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes.
– Stir in 1 package (16 oz) of gnocchi and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes until they float.
– Lower the heat, then stir in 1 cup of half-and-half and 2 cups of chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
– Finally, return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine everything. Adjust seasoning if needed.
You can find the full recipe above for a deeper dive into each step!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To brown the chicken well, heat your olive oil first. Then, add the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns a nice golden brown. This step adds great flavor to your soup.
To avoid overcooking the gnocchi, keep an eye on them. Gnocchi cooks quickly, usually just 3 to 5 minutes. They are done when they float to the top. If you cook them too long, they can get mushy.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, add herbs like fresh basil or rosemary. You can also try spices like paprika or red pepper flakes. These will give your soup a nice kick.
To adjust the creaminess of the soup, you can use more or less half-and-half. If you want it richer, add more cream. If you prefer a lighter soup, use less cream or add more broth.
Meal Presentation
Garnish your soup with fresh parsley right before serving. This adds color and a fresh taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serve your soup with crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping and makes the meal more filling. Enjoy this hearty chicken and gnocchi soup with a slice of bread for the best experience. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch chicken for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a similar taste and texture. Tofu is a great option for a plant-based meal. It absorbs flavors well, making it a tasty choice.
If you need gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands made from rice or potatoes. These alternatives keep the soup hearty and satisfying. You can also make your own gnocchi at home. Use gluten-free flour for a fun cooking project.
Flavor Variations
Adding different veggies can change the taste of your soup. Try mushrooms for a rich flavor or kale for a healthy twist. Both add texture and nutrients to the dish. You can even add corn or peas for a touch of sweetness.
You can also switch the broth. Using vegetable broth gives a lighter taste. For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or beef broth. Each option brings a new layer of taste to the soup.
Cultural Twists
To give a nod to Italian cuisine, you can add Italian seasonings. Try basil, rosemary, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. These spices deepen the flavors and make the soup feel more authentic.
You can also draw inspiration from classic chicken soup recipes. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This twist can lift the flavors and make each bowl feel special.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy the endless options to make this soup your own!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the soup cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. After that, the flavors may fade, and it might not taste as good.
Freezing
If you want to keep your soup longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning.
Reusing Leftovers
You can get creative with leftover soup! Try using it as a sauce for pasta or in a casserole. If you want to keep the gnocchi fresh, store it separately. This helps avoid mushiness. You can also add fresh veggies or protein to it later. The options are endless, and you can enjoy a new meal each time!
FAQs
How do you make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup from scratch?
To make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup from scratch, start with fresh ingredients. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook diced chicken until it turns brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Next, stir in the gnocchi and cook until they float. Lower the heat and mix in half-and-half and fresh spinach. Finally, return the chicken to the pot, stir, and serve warm. You can find the Full Recipe for detailed steps.
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi! Making your own gnocchi can boost the flavor and texture. Homemade gnocchi has a light and fluffy feel, making your soup even better. You can control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and healthy. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that can impress your family and friends. Store-bought gnocchi saves time, but homemade offers a special touch.
Is Chicken and Gnocchi Soup healthy?
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup can be a healthy meal choice. It is packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from vegetables. The spinach adds iron and extra nutrients. A serving can have around 250 calories, depending on the cream used. If you want a lighter version, try using less cream or substituting it with low-fat milk. You can also add more vegetables to boost fiber. This soup can fit into many healthy eating plans while still being tasty and filling.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. We also discussed variations to suit different tastes and storage tips for leftovers.
With these insights, you can create a comforting meal that warms the heart. Enjoy your cooking journey and the tasty soup you make!
