Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup Tasty and Easy Meal

Are you ready for a warm and creamy bowl of comfort? My Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is both easy to make and full of flavor. This delightful dish combines tender chicken and soft gnocchi in a rich, garlicky broth. Perfect for any day, it’s sure to please. Stick around as I share simple steps, helpful tips, and tasty variations. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded

– 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Optional Garnishes

You can add a few extra touches to make your soup shine. Consider:

– Fresh parsley, chopped

– Crusty bread on the side

– A drizzle of olive oil

Suggested Pairings

This creamy garlic chicken gnocchi soup pairs well with:

– A simple green salad

– Garlic bread for a fun crunch

– A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients. You will need olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Make sure to finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Peel and dice the carrots, and chop the celery. This step sets you up for success. Having everything ready makes cooking easy and fun.

Cooking the Soup Base

Next, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, thyme, and oregano. Cook this mixture for 5 minutes. Stir it often so the veggies soften nicely.

Now pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir it all together and increase the heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, add the shredded chicken and the potato gnocchi. Reduce the heat back to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the gnocchi rises to the top.

Finishing Touches

Finally, gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and mix well into the soup. After that, taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as you like.

Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken gnocchi soup!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flavor

To get the best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference. Sauté the onion until it is soft and sweet. This step builds a tasty base for your soup. Don’t rush the cooking process. Let the vegetables soften nicely before adding the broth. This helps blend the flavors well. Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the gnocchi. When they float to the top, they are ready. If you cook them too long, they can become mushy. Another mistake is not using enough seasoning. A pinch of salt can bring out the flavors. Make sure to add it gradually and taste as you go. Lastly, don’t skip the cream. It adds richness and a nice texture to your soup.

How to Customize the Recipe

You can twist this soup to fit your taste. Add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you want a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a lighter soup, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. You can also try different proteins. Use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shredded pork. Each option brings a unique flavor to the dish.

Variations

Adding Vegetables

You can boost the nutrition of your creamy garlic chicken gnocchi soup by adding more veggies. Here are some great options:

– Zucchini: Chop it into small pieces and add it with the carrots and celery.

– Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra flavor.

– Peas: Toss in a cup of frozen peas just before serving for a pop of color.

These veggies add more flavor and nutrients, making your soup even better!

Protein Alternatives

If you want to switch up the protein, you have a few fun choices. Here are some ideas:

– Rotisserie Chicken: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.

– Turkey: Shred cooked turkey instead of chicken for a lighter meal.

– Tofu: For a plant-based option, use cubed firm tofu. Add it when you stir in the cream.

These alternatives keep the soup tasty while giving you some variety.

Dairy-Free Version

To make a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream and cheese. Here’s how:

– Coconut Cream: Use full-fat coconut cream for a rich, creamy texture.

– Plant-Based Milk: Almond or oat milk works well too. Just thicken it with a bit of cornstarch.

– Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

This way, you can enjoy the soup without dairy, keeping it creamy and delicious!

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

You can store leftover creamy garlic chicken gnocchi soup in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cool it down before sealing. This helps keep the soup tasty and safe.

Freezing Guidelines

You may freeze the soup if you have more than you can eat. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave space at the top for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This keeps the flavor intact.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it on low to medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of cream if it looks too thick. Enjoy it hot!

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this soup. Just add them straight to the pot. There’s no need to thaw them first. They will cook quickly and absorb the soup’s great flavors. This makes for an easy and quick meal.

How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the gnocchi. This adds body and creaminess. Another way is to stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Just be sure to mix it well before adding. Let the soup simmer a bit longer to reach your desired thickness.

What are some good side dishes to serve with it?

Serve this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread is also great for dipping. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables for a tasty balance. These sides complement the creamy soup well and make for a complete meal.

This blog post covered all key parts of making a great soup. We discussed ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for success. Don’t forget to customize the recipe by adding veggies or proteins you love. Proper storage, like freezing, helps you enjoy leftovers later. Always feel free to tweak flavors to make it yours. Now, give this soup a try and enjoy every bit