Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Every time I make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it reminds me of cozy family gatherings on chilly evenings. The smell of savory broth simmering on the stove brings back those warm memories of laughter and chatter, where everyone gathered around the table, eager to enjoy home-cooked goodness. Watching my loved ones savor each spoonful warms my heart, and I know that once you try this recipe, you’ll feel that same comfort and joy in your home. There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy soup to make the world feel right again, especially as the leaves start to change and we nestle into the beauty of the season.

How to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 package gnocchi: Gnocchi adds a delightful texture and heartiness to the soup.
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: This not only saves time but also infuses the soup with incredible flavor.
• 1 onion, diced: Onions are the base of many comforting dishes and add a lovely aroma.
• 2 stalks celery, diced: Celery contributes a nice crunch and balance to the dish.
• 2 carrots, diced: Carrots add a touch of natural sweetness and color.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: I love adding leafy greens for a fresh touch; they wilt perfectly when cooked.
• 4 cups chicken broth: A good-quality broth is essential for a rich and flavorful base.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This gives the soup its creamy texture that I adore!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always important to season your dishes!
• Olive oil: For sautéing and bringing all the flavors together.

Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme—it makes the chicken smell and taste divine! If you can get your hands on some, it’s well worth it.

Cooking Steps:

1. Start by getting your ingredients ready. Chop the onions, celery, and carrots, and have everything measured out. This makes the cooking process so much smoother, and it’s like little gift-wrapping for your kitchen!

2. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. You want just enough to coat the bottom of the pot but not too much that it splatters. Trust me, the aroma of the olive oil sizzling adds to the anticipation!

3. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and the onions turn translucent. You’ll start to smell the deliciousness wafting through your kitchen—it’s a warm hug on a plate!

4. Once the veggies are soft, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This is where all those flavors begin to mingle and dance together.

5. Once boiling, add in the gnocchi. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes—it’s quick and easy!

6. After the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken. I love using rotisserie chicken—it’s such a time-saver and adds oodles of flavor without all the fuss.

7. Next, it’s time to wilt in that beautiful spinach. Just toss it in and stir; it will soften quickly. I always feel like I’m adding a bit of healthiness to the dish!

8. Now, let’s make it creamy. Reduce the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until everything is combined. You’ll witness the soup transforming into a luscious, creamy delight!

9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is crucial—don’t skip it!

10. Allow your soup to simmer for just a few more minutes. This gives the flavors time to deepen and come together in perfect harmony.

11. Once done, remove it from heat. Get those bowls ready!

12. Serve warm and watch as your family dives into the comfort of this Chicken Gnocchi Soup. You just made something special!

Why I Love Making This Dish: Chicken Gnocchi Soup is one of those recipes that truly brings people together. The creamy texture, coupled with the hearty ingredients, makes for a filling meal perfect for any occasion. I cherish the smiles on my family’s faces when I set it down on the table, and honestly, it’s just what I need to brighten a chilly day.

What You’ll Need: You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for this recipe. If you have a wooden spoon, use that to stir—there’s something so comforting about using a wooden spoon, isn’t there?

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start by gathering your ingredients.
2. Heat the olive oil in the pot over medium heat.
3. Sauté the onions, celery, and carrots.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add the gnocchi and cook as directed.
6. Stir in the shredded chicken.
7. Add the spinach and watch it wilt.
8. Pour in heavy cream for lusciousness.
9. Season and let simmer.
10. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Results: To get the skin on your rotisserie chicken crispy, I find that roasting it at home might add that lovely crunch. But if you’re short on time, that store-bought version is perfect! Also, remember not to overcrowd your pot when cooking the veggies; give them space to properly sauté.

Serving Suggestions and Sides: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. I often serve it with a side of garlic bread for those cozy nights in front of the fire. You could also sprinkle some fresh parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor—yum!

Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, a gentle simmer on the stove works best. Just add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to maintain that creamy texture!

FAQ Section: Can I use frozen gnocchi? Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to throw in some bell peppers or zucchini if you have them on hand. Cooking is all about making the recipe your own.

Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge. Just wait until right before serving to add the cream for the best texture.

Conclusion: This Chicken Gnocchi Soup has a special place in my heart and is bound to bring warmth into your home as well. I’m so excited for you to try this easy, comforting dish. It’s my go-to when I want to treat my family or enjoy a night in with a good book. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking, friends!