Irresistible Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can hold a candle to creamy chicken gnocchi soup. Picture this: a velvety broth brimming with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant veggies dancing together in a symphony of flavor. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. You can almost hear the soup whispering sweet nothings as it simmers away, begging to be savored.

This delightful recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter-filled dinners. I still remember the first time I made creamy chicken gnocchi soup for my friends. They gathered around the table, forks poised like they were preparing for a culinary battle, and the moment they took their first bites, their eyes widened in disbelief. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need something that feels like home.

I once served this soup at a dinner party, and one friend declared it “the best bowl of happiness” they’d ever had—definitely a proud moment!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor; they won’t dry out as easily as breasts.

• Fresh Gnocchi: Look for soft gnocchi in the refrigerated section; it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.

• Carrots: Choose vibrant orange carrots for sweetness; chop them finely so they cook evenly.

• Celery Stalks: Fresh celery adds crunch and aromatic depth; make sure they’re crisp!

• Onion: A medium yellow onion works best for its balanced flavor; dice it small to blend seamlessly into the soup.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; crush them before chopping for maximum flavor release.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding rich taste; homemade is great if you have some!

• Heavy Cream: This makes the soup luxuriously creamy; don’t skimp on this one!

• Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens add color and nutrition; toss them in just before serving.

• Dried Thyme and Oregano: These herbs round out the flavors beautifully; feel free to experiment with fresh herbs if available.

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for that perfect balance of flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Start by sautéing the chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat with olive oil. Add boneless chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes.

Next up, add the aromatics: Toss in diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté these colorful ingredients until they’re tender and fragrant—roughly 3-4 minutes will do.

Time for broth magic: Pour in your low-sodium chicken broth while scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. Bring it all to a boil—let those flavors mingle!

Now we add our star ingredient: Stir in fresh gnocchi gently into the bubbling broth. Cook until they float to the surface—this takes about 2-3 minutes max!

Make it creamy: Lower heat slightly and pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously until well combined. Let it simmer gently to thicken—keep an eye on that luscious texture!

Finally, finish with greens: Stir in spinach or kale just before serving until wilted. Taste for seasoning adjustments—you want perfection here!

Serve hot with crusty bread on the side—the ultimate comforting experience awaits!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken for flavor, then add vegetables before incorporating the gnocchi and broth. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly while maximizing taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap spinach for kale or use zucchini instead of carrots. Adding spices like thyme or a splash of lemon juice can elevate flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through to maintain texture.

There was that one chilly evening when my friend declared this soup “life-changing.” I think they were just really hungry, but hey, who doesn’t love a little dramatic flair in the kitchen?

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just fine and saves time during preparation.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth for a tasty vegetarian alternative.

What should I serve with creamy chicken gnocchi soup?

A simple side salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly with this comforting soup.

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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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Creamy chicken gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables in a rich, velvety broth. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup fresh gnocchi
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until tender (3-4 minutes).
3. Pour in chicken broth, scraping any brown bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil.
4. Stir in fresh gnocchi; cook until they float (2-3 minutes).
5. Reduce heat and mix in heavy cream; simmer gently until thickened.
6. Add spinach or kale just before serving; adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute kale for spinach or use zucchini instead of carrots for variety. For extra flavor, add herbs like basil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.