How to Make Hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s rich, comforting, and packed with hearty flavors. If you’re looking for a simple recipe that feels fancy, yet is easy to make, chicken and gnocchi soup is your answer. This creamy and flavorful dish comes together with basic ingredients and is perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or whenever you need a pick-me-up. Best of all, it doesn’t require complicated steps or skills. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious soup right in your kitchen.
What Is Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?
Chicken and gnocchi soup is a creamy, comforting soup that features tender pieces of chicken, soft gnocchi (Italian potato dumplings), and a variety of veggies. If you’ve ever had this type of soup at a restaurant like Olive Garden, you know how irresistible it is. The good news is that you don’t need to dine out to enjoy it—you can recreate this hearty dish in your own kitchen with simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need for this recipe:
– Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well if you want to save time.
– Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings are typically found in the pasta aisle at grocery stores. Store-bought gnocchi is great, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
– Veggies: Carrots, celery, onions, and spinach add flavor, texture, and freshness to the soup.
– Broth: Chicken broth is the base for this soup, giving it a savory flavor.
– Heavy cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
– Flour and butter: These thicken the soup into a luscious, creamy consistency.
– Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic, oregano, and thyme add depth and aroma to the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make your own chicken and gnocchi soup, step by step:
1. Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using raw chicken, cook it first.
– Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a pot, cover with water or chicken broth, and boil for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
– Let the cooked chicken cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Set it aside.
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it and skip this step.
2. Sauté the Veggies
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, onions, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and aromatic.
3. Make the Creamy Base
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir until the flour coats the veggies evenly. This step helps thicken the soup later.
Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The flour will dissolve, creating a smooth liquid.
4. Add the Gnocchi and Chicken
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the gnocchi, shredded chicken, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme (or both!). Lower the heat to medium and simmer for 5-7 minutes. The gnocchi will cook quickly and float to the top when done.
5. Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream for that signature creamy texture. Add fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the soup—it only takes a minute or two.
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Your hearty chicken and gnocchi soup is ready! Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm. For extra flair, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley on top. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal.
Helpful Tips
- Shortcut for Busy Days: Use pre-cooked shredded chicken or frozen vegetables to save time. No one will notice!
- Gnocchi Options: If you can’t find potato gnocchi, look for other varieties like ricotta gnocchi or mini gnocchi. They all work great.
- Make It Your Own: Customize the soup with your favorite veggies, like mushrooms, kale, or zucchini. You can even add bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Lighter Option: Want to make it less creamy? Replace the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken and gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and full of textures—from the soft gnocchi to the tender chicken and crunchy veggies. This recipe is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly weather or when you need a warm hug in food form. And because it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely have at home, you don’t have to stress about sourcing anything fancy.
Final Thoughts
Making hearty chicken and gnocchi soup at home is easier than you might think. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delicious and comforting meal in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself, this soup is sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try and feel free to tweak the recipe to make it your own!
Ready to grab your apron? Let’s get cooking! And once you’ve made this amazing soup, don’t forget to share it with friends or enjoy the leftovers the next day—it tastes even better!
