Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy Italian-Inspired Delight

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious, herb-infused creamy broth. This Italian-inspired soup is perfect for cozy nights and will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple one-pot meal with minimal prep.
• Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor.
• Loaded with protein and vegetables.
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Customizable with different proteins and vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, chopped
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Potato gnocchi
• Spinach or kale, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Add the chicken, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
6. Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender.
7. Add the heavy cream and spinach, stirring until well combined.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Lighter Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter consistency.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
• Extra Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more variety.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Different Proteins: Try turkey, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it great for meal prep.

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic bread complement this dish well.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred pre-cooked chicken and reduce the cooking time.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?

Yes! Fresh gnocchi cooks even faster, in about 2 minutes.

What toppings work best for this soup?

Extra Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of olive oil add great flavor.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Not with gnocchi, but you can substitute cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then add gnocchi and cream before serving.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some gnocchi or stir in a cornstarch slurry to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I add more protein?

Yes! Stir in cooked quinoa, white beans, or extra chicken for added protein.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and full of delicious flavors. Whether served for a family dinner or meal prep, this cozy Italian-inspired soup will quickly become a go-to favorite!

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