Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, creamy dish packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and hearty vegetables like spinach, carrots, and celery. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this soup combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a favorite for all ages.
The creamy base made with half-and-half and chicken broth is seasoned with thyme and a hint of garlic, providing a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. This one-pot meal is both delicious and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you crave a warm, homemade bowl of goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Creamy and Hearty: A rich, velvety broth filled with gnocchi and chicken makes for a satisfying meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for a comforting dinner.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable by adding mushrooms, substituting kale for spinach, or using rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Ingredients
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
• 2½ cups diced cooked chicken (bite-size pieces)
• 16 ounces potato gnocchi
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach (long stems trimmed)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion and celery are tender, about 7–8 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
Step 2: Create the Base
1. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually stir in the half-and-half and chicken broth, alternating between the two to create a smooth base.
Step 3: Simmer
1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
1. Stir in the fresh thyme, diced cooked chicken, and potato gnocchi.
2. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook through and absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
1. Add the fresh spinach and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Use Fresh Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi cooks faster and has a softer texture.
• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for a thicker texture.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze without the gnocchi and spinach for up to 2 months. Add them fresh when reheating.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Whether served for a family dinner or enjoyed as leftovers, it’s a timeless recipe that everyone will love. Bon appétit!
