Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is a delicious way to nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is not just about taste – it’s about bringing comfort and nourishment to your table. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for flexibility, making it a great option for those who may want to use what they have on hand. Additionally, this soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced meal with protein, healthy carbohydrates, and a variety of vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to have a homemade meal ready in under an hour, which is perfect for busy evenings or a cozy weekend.
How to Make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Making Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think! With a few straightforward steps, you can bring a delicious pot of hearty soup to your table. Here’s a breakdown of what you need and how to create this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp butter or vegan butter
- 1 cup sliced carrots, cut into thin coins
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large or 2 small ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 large shallot or 1/2 small onion, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- Seasoned salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 pinch dried thyme
- 3 tbsp gluten-free flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup milk (any kind, unsweetened almond milk works)
- 12 oz package gluten-free gnocchi
- 1.5 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (about 1/2 lb)
- 0.5 cup frozen peas
Directions:
- Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the pan.
- Add the carrots, mushrooms, celery, and shallots. Sauté until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season with seasoned salt and pepper. Continue sautéing until the vegetables are tender, approximately another 6-7 minutes.
- Add garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme; sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat; cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the milk and increase heat to medium-high to bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add the gnocchi and stir to combine; reduce heat to medium. Simmer, stirring frequently until the gnocchi are tender and plump, about 5-6 minutes. The sauce will thicken, coating the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas; cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success with Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
- Always sauté the vegetables until they’re tender before adding the flour to build a deeper flavor in the soup.
- For added richness, consider using a combination of chicken stock and cream instead of milk.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi; they only need a few minutes to become tender.
- If you want a bit more flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving.
- For a heartier version, you can include additional vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, especially with the seasoned salt and pepper.
Flavor Variations for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
- Herbal Infusion: Spice up the soup with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables for warmth.
- Creamy Mushroom: Substitute the chicken with additional mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s still hearty.
- Veggie Delight: Include other vegetables like kale or green beans for a more colorful and nutritious soup.
- Asian Flair: Add soy sauce, ginger, and green onions for an Asian-inspired twist.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Serve this delicious soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up all that flavorful broth. A simple green salad on the side adds freshness and crunch. If you’re hosting a dinner, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Leftover Chicken and Gnocchi Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re looking to freeze it, do so before adding the gnocchi as they can become mushy when thawed. The base of the soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding fresh gnocchi during the last cook time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQ About Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of dried?
Yes, fresh gnocchi cooks faster than dried gnocchi but can be used in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook.
Is chicken necessary in this recipe?
No, you can absolutely make this soup vegetarian by replacing chicken with mushrooms, tempeh, or tofu. Simply ensure you’re using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock as well.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you find your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair this soup with a side salad, garlic bread, or a light sandwich for a complete meal. For something hearty, consider serving it with a cheese toast.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it to friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish. Give it a try, and you may find it quickly becomes a favorite in your household!
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Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A warm and comforting Chicken and Gnocchi Soup filled with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of vegetables, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter or vegan butter
- 1 cup sliced carrots, cut into thin coins
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large or 2 small ribs celery, thinly sliced
- 1 large shallot or 1/2 small onion, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- Seasoned salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 pinch dried thyme
- 3 tbsp gluten-free flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup milk (any kind, unsweetened almond milk works)
- 12 oz package gluten-free gnocchi
- 1.5 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (about 1/2 lb)
- 0.5 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the pan.
- Add the carrots, mushrooms, celery, and shallots. Sauté until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season with seasoned salt and pepper. Continue sautéing until the vegetables are tender, approximately another 6-7 minutes.
- Add garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme; sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat; cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the milk and increase heat to medium-high to bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add the gnocchi and stir to combine; reduce heat to medium. Simmer, stirring frequently until the gnocchi are tender and plump, about 5-6 minutes. The sauce will thicken, coating the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas; cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
For added richness, consider using a combination of chicken stock and cream instead of milk. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as they only need a few minutes to become tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
