Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Warm up with this delightful chicken gnocchi soup, a perfect blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures that come together beautifully, making each spoonful a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 25g fat, and 3g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add sliced carrots and diced celery; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Place chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
8. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning.
9. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface.
10. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Feel free to add spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken gnocchi soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Consider serving with grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A light white wine can also complement the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. Avoid freezing, as the gnocchi may become mushy upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should float when done.
– Avoid high heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
– Adjust seasoning gradually to avoid over-salting.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Shred chicken while it’s warm for easier handling.
Helpful Tips
– Make it ahead of time; flavors deepen overnight.
– Use a rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
– Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavors.
– Add vegetables like spinach for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly in the soup without thawing. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make chicken gnocchi soup gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth is also gluten-free.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to replace the heavy cream.
How can I spice up this soup?
For added heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Conclusion
Chicken gnocchi soup is a delightful and hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its creamy texture and comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add sliced carrots and diced celery; cook for 5 minutes.
- Place chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning.
- Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.