Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Simmering · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh herbs that warms the soul.
As the crisp fall air settles into New York City, I find myself seeking comfort in hearty soups, especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner. One standout in my recipe repertoire is this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It's not just a meal; it's an experience filled with creamy, garlicky goodness that warms the soul. With a blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh herbs, this soup is perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends during the festive season.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and creamy, perfect for chilly fall nights.
- Quick prep and cooking time make it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile ingredients mean you can easily customize it to your taste.
- Great for gathering with family and friends during the festive season.
- Leftover-friendly, perfect for using up rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is made with simple, fresh ingredients that deliver rich flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Step-by-Step)
This hearty soup comes together easily with a few simple steps that bring out the best flavors.
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, letting them sauté for about 3 minutes. Stir frequently until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, creating an intoxicating smell.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. While it heats, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits. After a brief boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the pot, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface, signaling that they're ready.
Step 5: Add Cream and Spinach
Stir in the heavy cream, allowing a luscious texture to develop. After a few minutes, fold in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt and brighten the soup.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is perfectly cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an added burst of color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to cook the chicken too long at the beginning, or it can become dry.
- Skipping the Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the flavor profile. Fresh parsley makes a world of difference!
- Adding Gnocchi Too Early: Allowing the gnocchi to cook too long can make it mushy, so add it shortly before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Gnocchi Variations: Feel free to use homemade gnocchi if you have the time, but quality store-bought options are also delightful.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill along with the parsley for added depth of flavor.
- Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe for using up leftover rotisserie chicken, which can cut down on prep time.
Variations
- Substitute chicken with turkey or a vegetarian protein for a different flavor.
- Use different types of greens, like kale or Swiss chard, instead of spinach.
- Try adding roasted vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
How to Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The soup can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the silky texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and gnocchi may not freeze well.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through countless batches, I've discovered that the key to a truly comforting soup is allowing the ingredients time to meld together. Don't rush the simmering phase; let those flavors develop for a more dynamic bowl of soup that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 20g protein · 30g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, letting them sauté for about 3 minutes. Stir frequently until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and then fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt.
- Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this soup?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a thickener like cornstarch. However, be aware that this will change the texture and richness of the soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or cream will help maintain the desired texture.
What other herbs can I use to enhance the flavor?
In addition to fresh parsley, consider adding thyme, dill, or basil for a unique twist. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile, so feel free to experiment with your favorites!
