Cozy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup Recipes to Try

If you’re searching for a heartwarming, soul-soothing meal, look no further than chicken and gnocchi soup. This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and flavorful broth to create a cozy bowl that’s perfect for any day of the year. The star of the show, chicken and gnocchi soup, is not only easy to make but also bursting with comforting flavors that everyone will love. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to curl up with on a chilly evening, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort: The warm broth and soft gnocchi create a soothing, cozy experience that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this soup a breeze to whip up.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust veggies or protein to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and tender textures please both kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s both filling and good for your body.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for chicken and gnocchi soup are simple but essential. Each component contributes to the soup’s delicious savory base, satisfying texture, and inviting aroma that will draw everyone to the table.

• Boneless Chicken Breast: Tender and easy to shred, chicken breast adds lean protein to the soup.
• Potato Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy gnocchi adds an irresistible texture that’s the heart of the dish.
• Chicken Broth: A rich, flavorful base that ties the soup together with depth.
• Carrots and Celery: Classic soup vegetables that offer sweetness and crunch.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that create the savory backbone of the soup.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: For a creamy finish that’s luxurious without being too heavy.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Parsley): Brightens the flavors and adds freshness to each bite.
• Olive Oil and Butter: For sautéing vegetables and enriching the soup’s flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every other flavor.

Variations for Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This chicken and gnocchi soup is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re vegan, low-carb, or just love trying new flavors, you can easily customize this dish to fit your needs and personal taste.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make the recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant diets.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a subtle but satisfying kick.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella to add extra richness and depth.
• Leafy Greens: Toss in spinach or kale for a nutritious boost and a pop of color.

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How to Make Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken

Begin by chopping your carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the carrots and celery and cook for a few more minutes until slightly tender. Next, add the chicken breasts and pour in chicken broth to cover the ingredients.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth and Cook Chicken

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. This slow simmer allows the chicken breasts to cook fully while infusing the broth with savory richness, usually about 15-20 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.

Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Cream

Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then add the potato gnocchi. Allow the gnocchi to cook just until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, then season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme or parsley to taste.

Step 4: Final Simmer and Serve

Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra herbs if desired for a fresh burst of flavor and color.

Pro Tips for Making CHICKEN AND GNOCCHI SOUP

• Fresh Gnocchi: Use store-bought fresh gnocchi if in a hurry—they cook quickly and offer superior texture.
• Shred Chicken Warm: Shredding the chicken while warm makes the process easier and results in tender pieces.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Gnocchi cook fast; removing them as soon as they float helps prevent mushiness.
• Enhance Flavor: Sauté vegetables in butter along with olive oil for extra richness.
• Herb Freshness: Add fresh herbs at the end to maintain their vibrant flavor and aroma.

How to Serve CHICKEN AND GNOCCHI SOUP

Garnishes

Adding fresh parsley, thyme sprigs, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese transforms the presentation and enhances the flavor complexity right before serving.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up every bit of that delicious broth. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun, immersive dining experience or layer with a touch of pesto drizzle on top to add an herbaceous twist and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and gnocchi soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the gnocchi submerged in broth to maintain softness and prevent drying out.

Freezing

Due to the creamy base and delicate gnocchi texture, freezing the soup is possible but not ideal. If you freeze it, expect some texture changes in the gnocchi and cream separation, so reheating gently with extra broth may be needed.

Reheating

Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much, ensuring it remains silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and adds delicious flavor, just shred it and add it during the final steps.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream in chicken and gnocchi soup?

No, heavy cream adds richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version without sacrificing much taste.

How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking together?

Make sure your soup broth is gently boiling before adding the gnocchi and stir occasionally during cooking to separate the pieces.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients except gnocchi and cream. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, add gnocchi and cream last, and cook until gnocchi are tender.

What if I can’t find fresh gnocchi?

Dried gnocchi or even small pasta shapes like mini shells or orzo can be used as substitutes, though the texture will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and gnocchi soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that invites warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its easy prep and customizable ingredients, this recipe is destined to become a favorite you turn to again and again, especially on those days when you need a little extra comfort in a bowl. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it weekly!

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