Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Classic

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Chicken:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken cubes and cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
   • Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Broth:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
   • Add the thyme, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Add the Gnocchi:
   • Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat and add the gnocchi.
   • Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
5. Stir in the Dairy:
   • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and slowly stir in the heavy cream and milk.
   • Let the soup heat through for about 3-4 minutes without bringing it to a boil.
6. Add the Spinach and Chicken:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the chopped spinach.
   • Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
7. Season and Serve:
   • Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy while it’s warm.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice while sautéing the vegetables.
• To thicken the soup, you can whisk in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with the cream.
• Homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch, but store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for a quicker meal.

Enjoy this creamy and satisfying Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s a wonderful comfort dish that’s hearty yet light enough for a cozy dinner.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup can be simple, but a few tips can elevate the experience:

Secrets to Achieving Creamy Perfection

• Use heavy cream for a thicker texture, or swap it with half-and-half if you prefer a lighter soup.
• Sauté the vegetables in butter for a rich, deep flavor before adding the broth.

How to Store and Reheat the Soup

This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
   Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the gnocchi, as the texture can become mushy upon reheating.
2. What Type of Gnocchi is Best for Soup?
   Potato-based gnocchi is ideal for this soup, though you can experiment with cauliflower or spinach varieties.
3. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
   Absolutely! Prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
4. What Can I Serve with Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
   Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
5. How Do I Make It Healthier?
   Use low-fat cream and lean chicken breasts, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
6. Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
   Feel free to use rotisserie chicken, chicken thighs, or even turkey as substitutes.

Conclusion

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy base, tender gnocchi, and succulent chicken combine to make every spoonful satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this soup is sure to impress with its rich flavor and easy preparation.