When the chill in the air seeps into your bones and the day calls for something warm and soothing, few dishes answer the craving like a bowl of hearty chicken and gnocchi soup. This comforting recipe brings together tender pieces of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, savory broth that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful. More than just a meal, it’s a culinary hug-simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet comforting enough to feel like a special occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore how to create this soul-soothing soup from scratch, sharing tips and tricks to make each bite a celebration of flavor and warmth.Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food.
Hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup brings together simple, soulful ingredients that transform an ordinary day into a warm, comforting embrace. This recipe captures the essence of home cooking with tender shredded chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a broth rich with aromatic herbs and vegetables-each spoonful telling a story of care and flavor depth.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 20 minutes
- cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Yield
- Serves 6 hearty bowls
Difficulty Level
- Easy – perfect for home cooks of all levels
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi, preferably fresh
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional for serving
instructions
- heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.Add the chopped onion,sauté until translucent and fragrant,about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. sauté another 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften but still hold thier shape.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and rosemary.Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- In a separate pot, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions-usually boiling in salted water until they float to the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Stir the fresh spinach and heavy cream into the soup. Cook for 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup turns beautifully creamy.
- Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi. Heat through for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added indulgence.
Chef’s notes: Tips for Success
- For a deeper broth, use homemade chicken stock or enhance store-bought broth with a splash of white wine or a Parmesan rind simmered during cooking.
- Fresh gnocchi yield the best texture. If using frozen,do not thaw before boiling,as handling them too much can make them fall apart.
- to keep the soup light, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Make ahead: Prepare the broth and chicken up to 2 days before, storing in the fridge. Add gnocchi and spinach only when reheating to maintain their texture and freshness.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the broth during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Comfort Soup Experience
This hearty chicken and gnocchi soup shines brightest when served piping hot in rustic bowls that invite you to linger.Pair it with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for radiant contrast. Accompany the meal with slices of crusty artisan bread or warm garlic focaccia-perfect for sopping up every last drop of the creamy, herb-infused broth.
For a final touch, drizzle a spoonful of extra virgin olive oil or add a dash of chili flakes to awaken the palate. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light herbal tea makes a comforting, balanced pairing.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
Explore more comforting recipes like this Classic Creamy Tomato Soup for a heartwarming meal lineup. For additional inspiration on nurturing homemade meals, visit Food Network.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup – Comfort in a Bowl Recipe
Q: What makes Hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup so comforting?
A: This soup combines tender chunks of chicken with pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. The warmth of the soup wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making it the perfect antidote to chilly days or when you need a hug in a bowl.
Q: How challenging is it to prepare this soup?
A: Surprisingly easy! While it sounds gourmet, the recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or a seasoned cook,you’ll find the process both satisfying and manageable.
Q: Can I use store-bought gnocchi, or should I make it from scratch?
A: Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and saves time, making it a practical choice for a weeknight meal. Though, if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi adds a lovely personal touch and a slightly fresher texture.
Q: What ingredients give this soup its hearty flavor?
A: A blend of savory chicken, aromatic garlic and herbs, nutrient-packed vegetables like spinach or kale, and the creamy broth come together to create depth and richness. The gnocchi soaks up the broth, making each bite satisfyingly significant.
Q: Are there any tips to prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy?
A: Definitely! Add the gnocchi toward the end of cooking and simmer just until they float to the surface-usually 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooking can cause them to loose their delightful texture.
Q: Can this recipe be adapted for dietary preferences or restrictions?
A: Absolutely! For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.Gluten-free gnocchi options are available in many stores. You can also substitute chicken with tofu or beans for a vegetarian twist.
Q: What sides or accompaniments pair well with this soup?
A: crusty bread or garlic knots are ideal for dipping, while a fresh green salad can balance the soup’s richness. A glass of crisp white wine or herbal tea complements the comforting flavors nicely.
Q: How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore consistency and warm gently on the stove to keep the gnocchi intact.
Q: What inspired the creation of this hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup recipe?
A: The recipe draws inspiration from traditional Italian comfort foods,blending rustic flavors and textures to create something both familiar and nourishing. It’s intended to bring a bit of joy and warmth to any dining table.
Q: Why should someone add this recipe to their regular meal rotation?
A: Because it’s a tasty and versatile dish that is easy to make, endlessly comforting, and perfect for any season. It satisfies hunger, lifts spirits, and offers a wholesome meal all in one bowl.
Closing Remarks
As the final spoonful of this hearty chicken and gnocchi soup warms your soul, it’s clear that comfort truly can come in a bowl. This recipe not only fills your kitchen with inviting aromas but also offers a perfect harmony of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and rich, savory broth. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal to soothe a chilly evening or a nourishing dish to share with loved ones, this soup stands ready to deliver satisfaction with every bite.
So next time the craving for warmth and home-cooked goodness strikes, remember that a pot of this comforting soup is just a few simple steps away-ready to wrap you in delicious simplicity.
