Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Every time I make this Chicken Gnocchi Soup, memories of cozy family dinners flood my mind. I can still picture my grandkids gathered around my kitchen table, eagerly waiting for their bowls to be filled. The moment the fragrant steam rises, it feels as if love is wafting through the room. The aroma of warm, hearty soup instantly wraps around me like a favorite blanket, bringing comfort on chilly evenings. I know that once you try this recipe, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort!

Let me take you through how easy and fun it is to make this delicious soup from the comfort of your own kitchen. The best part? It comes together in less than thirty minutes, which means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or for a special weekend dinner with family.

How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 package gnocchi: The star of our show! These little dumplings give the soup a delightful texture. You can usually find them in the pasta aisle, but feel free to use homemade gnocchi if you’re feeling adventurous!
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: This is my favorite shortcut. It’s juicy and packed with flavor, and it’s a time saver that allows you to spend more precious moments with your loved ones.
• 1 onion, diced: Onions add a beautiful sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery brings in that lovely crunch and freshness.
• 2 carrots, diced: Sweet, tender carrots brighten up the dish.
• 2 cups spinach: Fresh spinach gives the soup a vibrant green color and a dose of healthy goodness.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The base of our soup and essential for that comforting flavor. I love using low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This adds richness to the broth, making it creamy and luxurious.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always a must for seasoning!
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle for sautéing.

Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme; it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing!

Cooking Steps:

1. Gather Your Ingredients: First things first, let’s get everything ready. Chop your veggies and shred that rotisserie chicken. Believe me, having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much easier and more enjoyable.

2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and fragrant. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll know it’s time for the next step!

4. Add the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth in and bring it to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!

5. Cook the Gnocchi: Once the broth is bubbling lightly, add in the gnocchi. Follow the package instructions, and cook until they float to the top. Usually, this takes about 2-3 minutes, so keep an eye on them.

6. Incorporate the Chicken and Spinach: After the gnocchi is cooked, gently stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt beautifully and adds virtually no prep time!

7. Pour in the Cream: Add the heavy cream to the pot, stirring until it’s well mixed and heated through. This step turns your soup into a creamy dream.

8. Season to Taste: Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste as you go! You’ll want to make it just right.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. You can top it with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.

Why I Love Making This Dish: Chicken Gnocchi Soup holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just a meal; it’s a way to connect with my family. Growing up, my mom would have us help in the kitchen, and cooking became an important family tradition. Now, I do the same with my grandchildren. The laughter, the stories, and the occasional splatter of ingredients make the kitchen feel like a joyful place. This recipe encapsulates that spirit and warmth.

What You’ll Need: Aside from your usual kitchen stable, having a sturdy pot and a good ladle will make your life easier. I also recommend an apron—you never know when a little broth might jump out of the pot!

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken if you’re interested in deeper flavors. It’ll make your broth richer and the meat juicier.
• Don’t skip the sautéing step. It adds layers of flavors that make the soup so comforting.
• If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk.

Serving Suggestions and Sides: I love to pair this soup with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. If you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread always complements the creamy broth well.

Leftovers: This soup is great for leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it up in a pot on the stove over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up since the gnocchi tends to absorb the liquid as it sits.

FAQ Section:

Can I use boneless chicken? "You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!"

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, but I recommend adding the gnocchi just before serving so they don’t become mushy.

Can I freeze Chicken Gnocchi Soup? Yes, though the texture of gnocchi may change slightly. If you choose to freeze it, omit the cream and add it when reheating.

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup has become a beloved staple in my home. The joy of cooking, paired with the love for family, transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. When I made this for my family last Sunday, they couldn’t stop talking about how amazing it was. I’m excited for you to try it! I know you’ll love this comforting soup as much as I do. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out; I can’t wait to hear about your family enjoying it!