Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Craving a warm, hearty meal? Our chicken gnocchi soup is just what you need! This creamy, comforting dish combines tender chunks of chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups spinach, fresh
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is for one person, helping you stay informed about your meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the diced chicken, cooking until browned on all sides.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version. Spinach can be replaced with kale, and heavy cream can be swapped with half-and-half for a lighter soup.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken gnocchi soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. This soup can also be frozen; however, the texture of the gnocchi may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the chicken; it can become tough.
– Avoid cooking gnocchi too long; they should float to the top.
– Ensure your broth is well-seasoned for flavor.
– Don’t skip the fresh vegetables; they add essential nutrients.
– Use low heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
Helpful Tips
– Use homemade broth for enhanced flavor.
– Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil.
– For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.
– Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor.
– Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time in preparation.
Is this soup gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free gnocchi and broth, the soup can be gluten-free.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it sealed in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Chicken gnocchi soup is a delightful, hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy this creamy, delicious soup that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 1 package 16 oz gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach fresh
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add gnocchi and cook until they float, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.