Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Soup Simple Delight

Craving a warm and hearty meal? My Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just what you need! This simple delight blends tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and fluffy gnocchi into a cozy bowl of goodness. Perfect for a chilly night, it’s quick to make and bursting with flavor. Stick around as I share step-by-step instructions and handy tips to elevate your soup game. Let’s dive into this creamy comfort!

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for your creamy pesto chicken gnocchi soup:

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 1 medium yellow onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes

– 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

– 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

These ingredients work together to create a rich and flavorful soup. The olive oil adds depth, while the onion and garlic bring a nice aromatic base. Chicken breast provides protein and heartiness. Chicken broth gives the soup its liquid gold, and heavy cream makes it creamy and smooth.

Basil pesto adds that fresh, herby taste we all love. Gnocchi are little pillows of goodness, making the soup filling and comforting. Fresh spinach not only brightens the dish but also packs in nutrients. Finally, Parmesan cheese and basil leaves are perfect for garnishing, adding extra flavor and flair to your bowl.

Gather these ingredients, and you are on your way to a delightful meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Aromatics

– Sautéing the onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced medium yellow onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onion turns soft and clear.

– Cooking the garlic: Add 3 minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Cook for 30 seconds until the garlic smells great. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can ruin the flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

– Adding chicken and seasoning: Put 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast into the pot. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

– Ensuring it’s fully cooked: Stir the chicken often for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is nicely browned and no pink shows.

Building the Soup Base

– Adding chicken broth: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mix to a boil.

– Incorporating heavy cream and pesto: Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of basil pesto. Mix well and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Cooking the Gnocchi

– Timing for adding gnocchi: Gently add 1 pound of gnocchi to the soup. Follow the package instructions.

– Identifying doneness: Cook until the gnocchi floats to the top, usually around 2-3 minutes. This shows they are ready.

Final Steps

– Adding spinach: Fold in 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Let it wilt in the hot soup for about 2 minutes. This adds color and nutrients.

– Adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup. Add more salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavor.

Tips & Tricks

How to Make It Creamier

– To make your soup creamier, add more heavy cream. Start with an extra half cup.

– You can also add more chicken broth to balance the richness. This keeps the flavor strong.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve your soup in warm bowls; it makes each bite more enjoyable.

– Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This adds color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Be careful not to overcook the garlic. It can turn bitter and ruin your soup.

– Always season your soup well. Taste it as you go to ensure it’s just right.

Variations

Substitute Ingredients

You can switch up proteins in this soup. Instead of chicken, try shrimp or turkey. They add unique flavors and still blend well with the creamy base.

If you want to change the gnocchi, opt for small pasta like orzo or even rice. These options will keep the soup hearty and comforting.

Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian take, skip the chicken. Use hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers instead. They bring great texture and taste.

Also, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. This keeps the soup rich while making it meat-free.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavors, add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary. Fresh herbs can make your soup pop with freshness.

You can also try different types of pesto. Sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto can offer a fun twist. Each variety gives the soup a unique taste.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy pesto chicken gnocchi soup fresh, store it in the fridge.

– Use airtight containers to prevent air from getting in.

– Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing.

– Label the container with the date to track freshness.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save the soup for later, freezing is a great option.

– Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers.

– Leave some space at the top for expansion.

– To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove.

Shelf Life

You can enjoy your soup for several days.

– In the fridge, it can last up to 4 days.

– If frozen, it stays good for about 2-3 months.

– Check for signs of spoilage, like strange smells or changes in color.

– If it looks or smells off, it’s best to discard it.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto?

Yes, you can use homemade pesto. Homemade pesto has a fresher taste than store-bought. You can control the flavor and ingredients. Plus, it can be more vibrant in color. Store-bought pesto is often easier and quicker. It can save time, especially when you are busy. Both options work well in this creamy pesto chicken gnocchi soup.

What can I do if the soup is too thick?

If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream. Start by adding a little at a time. Stir well to mix it in. You can also add water for a lighter flavor. Always taste as you go. Adjust until you reach your desired consistency. This soup should be creamy but not too heavy.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free. Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. For the cheese, try a dairy-free Parmesan or omit it altogether. For the pesto, check for dairy in the ingredients. Many store-bought pestos contain cheese. Homemade pesto can be made without cheese easily. This way, you keep the great flavor without dairy.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

To check if the chicken is done, cut a piece in half. It should be white throughout with no pink inside. The juices should run clear. For safety, the chicken needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help ensure it’s fully cooked. This keeps the dish safe and tasty.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Prepare it fully and cool it down quickly. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do it slowly over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing flavor.

This blog post covers a delicious creamy chicken gnocchi soup. We explored key ingredients, like chicken breast, gnocchi, and basil pesto. I provided clear steps on how to prepare the soup and avoid common mistakes. You can also find variations, storage tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

In conclusion, this soup is simple to make and packs great flavor. Try it out and enjoy a comforting meal anytim