If you’re craving a bowl of cozy comfort, nothing hits the spot quite like the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe. This soup is a delightful harmony of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and silky cream, all brightened by fresh spinach and the warm aroma of garlic. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug that wraps you up with its creamy texture and savory flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in making this soup both luscious and satisfying. From the hearty chicken to the delicate spinach, every component is essential in building layers of flavor and texture you’ll absolutely love.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a nice richness while keeping things light.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender chicken pieces provide protein and a satisfying bite.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when softened and caramelized.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives that irresistible fragrant punch that lifts the entire soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness, making the soup luxuriously smooth.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped: Fresh greens for color, nutrition, and a hint of earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its signature aromatic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, cooking them until they’re beautifully browned on all sides, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This browning is key because it locks in juiciness and infuses the soup with rich flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to add back later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Using the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these fragrant veggies for around 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic releases that mouthwatering aroma. This step builds the flavorful base of your soup, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add the Broth and Gnocchi
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Now is the time to add the gnocchi—those soft, pillowy little dumplings that make this soup extra special. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually around 3 minutes, until they float to the surface indicating they are perfectly done.
Step 4: Return the Chicken and Add Cream
Gently return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the soup thickens just right. The cream adds a luscious texture while the spinach adds freshness and vibrant color.
Step 5: Serve
Give your soup a final taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Ladle it into bowls and serve it hot for a truly comforting experience that’s bound to become a new favorite. This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe is the kind of dish that warms the soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of chopped fresh parsley can add a wonderful finishing touch. Both lend a burst of flavor and a pop of color that makes each serving look as good as it tastes. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or crispy garlic chips can also amp up the flavor profile effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This soup is quite hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping. A simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette is another great option to add a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls that soak up the creamy broth perfectly. You could also top each bowl with a few sautéed mushrooms or a swirl of pesto for an unexpected burst of flavor that complements the garlic and herbs wonderfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating, as the gnocchi can settle at the bottom.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly after thawing. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on low to medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly and the cream doesn’t separate. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for best texture and flavor retention.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken saves time. Just add it back into the soup in the final step and allow it to warm through without cooking it further to avoid drying out.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works, adding a slight sweetness that pairs surprisingly well.
What can I use instead of gnocchi?
If you can’t find gnocchi, small pasta shapes like mini shells or tortellini work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the pasta is tender but not mushy.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It won’t be exactly the same but still delicious, especially with the creamy garlic base.
How do I prevent the soup from getting too thick?
If your soup thickens more than you like, simply stir in extra chicken broth or water while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. The soup should be creamy but still easy to sip.
Final Thoughts
Making the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe is like crafting a little bowl of happiness that satisfies both the tummy and the soul. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit any season or craving. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delicious warmth with your loved ones!
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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup bursting with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a flavorful garlic-infused broth finished with creamy heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a cozy meal any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant, building the soup’s flavor base.
- Add the Broth and Gnocchi: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, about 3 minutes, until they float to the surface indicating they are done.
- Return the Chicken and Add Cream: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in heavy cream, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve hot for a delicious, creamy, and hearty soup experience.
Notes
- To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the soup will be less creamy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for more texture and nutrition.
- Ensure not to overcook the gnocchi to keep them tender and soft.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
