There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, don’t you think? That’s why I absolutely adore making creamy chicken gnocchi soup—it’s a comforting delight that wraps you in warmth and flavor like a cozy blanket. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was one of those rainy afternoons where the sky just wouldn’t stop pouring. I whipped up a batch, and as the aroma filled my kitchen, I felt all my worries melt away. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the combination of tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth that makes each spoonful feel like a hug from the inside out. Plus, it’s super easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a little comfort food, this soup is your go-to recipe!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy chicken gnocchi soup. Each one plays a vital role in bringing warmth and flavor to your bowl!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for ease!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing those delicious veggies)
- 1 medium onion, diced (this adds a sweet base to the soup)
- 2 carrots, diced (for a touch of sweetness and color)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (adds a nice crunch and flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (the heart of the soup, so go for a good quality one)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a little sprinkle of flavor magic)
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (the fluffy stars of the show!)
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (for a fresh, vibrant touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust to your preference!)
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Making creamy chicken gnocchi soup is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring this comforting delight in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it shimmering but not smoking—this is where the magic begins!
- Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté those veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Oh, the smell is already making me hungry!
- Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to let it burn—nobody wants that bitter taste in our delicious soup!
- Next, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, letting those flavors mingle beautifully.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat a bit and stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. This is where your soup transforms into that creamy dream we’re after!
- Now, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. That’s when you know they’re ready!
- Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and the shredded chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the spinach is wilted. It’s all coming together!
- Before serving, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, it’s all about making it just right for you!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this creamy chicken gnocchi soup! While I believe in enjoying every comforting bite, it’s also good to know what’s in your bowl. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, knowing the numbers can help you enjoy your comforting delight even more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is like a warm hug on a cold day. The rich flavors and creamy texture will have you coming back for seconds!
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in about 35 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with shredded chicken, spinach, and veggies, this soup is not just indulgent but also nourishing. You get a little dose of comfort and health in every bowl!
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe! Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it truly your own. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in the fridge for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner later on.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this creamy chicken gnocchi soup is sure to impress everyone at the table. It’s a dish that brings people together!
Tips for Success
To make sure your creamy chicken gnocchi soup comes out absolutely delicious, here are some handy tips I’ve gathered over the years!
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves time and adds fantastic flavor without the hassle of cooking chicken from scratch!
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep an eye on those gnocchi! They only need a couple of minutes to cook until they float. Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi, and we definitely want them fluffy!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a lighter soup, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. It’ll still be creamy, but with a little less richness!
- Season Gradually: When you’re adding salt and pepper, do it gradually! Taste as you go to ensure you hit that perfect balance. Everyone’s taste preferences are a bit different!
- Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider tossing in some chopped fresh parsley or basil right before serving. It really elevates the flavor!
- Let it Rest: If you have time, let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it’ll be easier to serve!
- Storage Tips: If you’re making this soup ahead of time, store the gnocchi separately from the soup to prevent them from getting soggy. Just combine them when you’re ready to eat!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a creamy chicken gnocchi soup that wows everyone! Happy cooking!
Variations
The beauty of creamy chicken gnocchi soup is how easily it adapts to your taste buds! Here are some fun variations to make this comforting delight even more exciting:
- Herb Swap: Try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Each herb brings its own unique twist!
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. It’s a simple way to elevate the warmth of the soup!
- Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Toss in some diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms! They’ll add texture and extra nutrition.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella towards the end for a cheesy twist. Who doesn’t love a bit of gooey goodness?
- Mixed Greens: Swap the spinach for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. They add a hearty touch and are packed with nutrients!
- Protein Variations: Not a fan of chicken? You can use shredded turkey or even cooked sausage for a different flavor. Both options work beautifully in this soup!
- Gnocchi Alternatives: For a fun twist, try using other pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: If you can find them, sweet potato gnocchi adds a lovely sweetness and a pop of color. They’re perfect for fall or winter meals!
Feel free to mix and match any of these ideas to make your own signature version of creamy chicken gnocchi soup. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorite combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of creamy chicken gnocchi soup, you might be wondering what to do with any leftovers—or if you’re just planning ahead for later. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
To store your soup, let it cool to room temperature first before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make your soup watery. It’s best to store it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep the gnocchi separate if you can; they tend to soak up the broth and can get a bit mushy over time.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best flavor and texture. Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just make sure to heat it in short bursts and stir in between to ensure it warms evenly.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your creamy chicken gnocchi soup whenever the craving strikes! Happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your creamy chicken gnocchi soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! The right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience and make it even more delightful.
- Crusty Bread: There’s nothing quite like a warm, crusty baguette or some fluffy dinner rolls to dip into your soup. Trust me, the combination is heavenly!
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup. I love mixing arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of parmesan for a vibrant touch!
- Garlic Bread: If you’re a garlic lover like me, buttery garlic bread is an absolute must! It pairs perfectly with the creamy soup and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy side, consider serving roasted seasonal veggies. They’re colorful, nutritious, and add a nice crunch to your meal!
- Cheese Platter: How about a simple cheese platter with some crackers? It’s a great way to nibble while enjoying your soup, and you can mix and match your favorites!
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can be a refreshing end to your meal. It’s a sweet contrast to the savory soup and adds a nice splash of color on your table!
These serving suggestions will not only complement your creamy chicken gnocchi soup but also create a delightful dining experience. Enjoy every bite and happy feasting!
Z nadrukami
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a cozy 7-minute delight
- Całkowity Czas: 35 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a comforting delight.
Składniki
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instrukcje
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning.
- Add gnocchi and cook until they float.
- Stir in spinach and cooked chicken; cook until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Uwagi
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
- Kategoria: Soup
- Sposób: Stovetop
- Kuchnia: Italian
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 cup
- Kalorie: 400
- Cukier: 2g
- Sód: 800mg
- Kwasy: 25g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 12g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 8g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 30g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Słowa kluczowe: creamy chicken gnocchi soup, comforting soup, chicken soup