Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Classic

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 pound chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the chopped fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir again to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Add the gnocchi to the pot. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the gnocchi is cooked through.
  8. Add the fresh spinach to the pot and stir until it wilts.
  9. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the pot, stirring continuously, until the soup thickens.
  10. Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
  • Replace chicken breasts with cooked and shredded turkey for a Thanksgiving twist.
  • Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
  • Include diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness.
  • Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving for extra richness.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or sage to change the flavor profile.
  • Add chopped mushrooms for an earthy and savory twist.
  • Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture and taste.
  • For a creamier soup, substitute half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Include some cooked corn kernels for an added pop of sweetness and texture.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a warm bowl of comfort with this recipe for Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a variety of vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. It's the perfect soup for a cold day or when you're in need of a comforting meal. The soup's rich texture is achieved with the addition of a cornstarch slurry, which thickens the broth to perfection. Cooking this dish is a delightful process, and the end result is a meal that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. Expect aromas of fresh thyme and simmering broth to fill your kitchen as you prepare this delicious and comforting meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup as instructed.
  2. Can I use frozen gnocchi? Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi for this recipe. Follow the package instructions for cooking the frozen gnocchi before adding it to the soup.
  3. Can I substitute the heavy cream? If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy.
  4. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables or substitute the chicken with tofu or plant-based protein alternatives.
  5. How long does this soup keep? This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Needed for cooking the soup.
  • Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - Useful for chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and mincing the vegetables.
  • Measuring cups - Required for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Necessary for precise measurement of spices and seasonings.
  • Whisk - Helpful for stirring and incorporating the cornstarch slurry.
  • Soup bowls - Used for serving the finished chicken gnocchi soup.
  • Soup ladle - Convenient for scooping and portioning the soup into bowls.
  • Garnish (such as fresh thyme leaves or grated Parmesan cheese) - Optional but recommended for enhancing the presentation and flavor of the soup.

Origin stories

Gnocchi, the delightful little dumplings in our Chicken Gnocchi Soup, have a storied history that spans across various cultures. They are believed to have originated in the Middle East and were introduced to Europe as the Roman Empire expanded. Early forms of gnocchi were made from a semolina porridge-like dough mixed with eggs. However, the version we are familiar with today, made with potatoes, didn't appear until the 16th century when Spanish explorers introduced potatoes to Europe from their voyages to South America. To this day, gnocchi is considered a staple in Italian cuisine, with each region of Italy boasting its own special way of making these versatile dumplings. Our Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe offers a comforting and delectable fusion of this Italian classic with the heartiness of chicken soup.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.