Chicken Gnocchi Soup – All Cooks Corner

Quick Benefits

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that blends tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a family on a chilly evening. This soup is also packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins—delicious and nourishing all in one bowl.

Essential Ingredients

Butter & Olive Oil: Provide the base for sautéing vegetables and building flavor.
Onion, Celery & Garlic: Classic aromatic veggies that add depth to the broth.
Flour: Helps thicken the soup.
Evaporated Milk or Half & Half: Creates a rich, creamy texture.
Cooked Chicken: Adds lean protein and heartiness.
Carrots & Spinach: Offer nutrients and color.
Chicken Stock: Deepens flavor and creates a soup base.
Gnocchi: Light potato dumplings that make the soup extra satisfying.
Dried Thyme, Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and warmth.

Preparation Steps

Sauté Veggies: In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until soft.
Add Flour: Sprinkle in flour, stirring for about a minute to cook out the raw taste.
Pour in Milk: Slowly whisk in evaporated milk or half & half to avoid lumps.
Cook Gnocchi Separately: In another pan, cook gnocchi as per package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: Add diced chicken and shredded carrots to the soup base. Stir well.
Simmer with Broth: Add chicken stock, cooked gnocchi, spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Final Touches: Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with parsley or Parmesan before serving.

Health Benefits

High Protein: Thanks to lean chicken, this soup supports muscle maintenance and satiety.
Rich in Vitamins: Spinach and carrots offer vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immunity and vision.
Comforting Carbs: Gnocchi provides quick energy and enhances the soup’s heartiness.
Balanced Meal: This soup covers all bases—protein, carbs, healthy fats, and veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy soup in warm bowls with:

Crusty garlic bread or a baguette
A crisp green salad
A sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese
A cozy blanket (optional, but recommended!)

It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a starter for a dinner party.

Creative Variations

Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Use rotisserie chicken: A time-saver that adds flavor.
Switch greens: Try kale, Swiss chard, or arugula.
Add mushrooms: Sauté and stir in for umami depth.
Make it dairy-free: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and thicken with a cornstarch slurry.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm over medium heat on the stove. Add a splash of milk or broth if too thick.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy and gnocchi, which can change texture.

Pro Tips

Don’t overcook the gnocchi—it becomes mushy.
If soup thickens too much when stored, simply stir in a little chicken broth when reheating.
Add gnocchi just before serving if making ahead to keep it tender and not soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes! Just cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the soup.

Q: Is it okay to use milk instead of evaporated milk or half & half?
A: You can use whole milk, but the soup may be thinner. Add a bit more flour for thickness if desired.

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! This is a great way to use up leftover turkey from holiday meals.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free gnocchi.

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