There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup that instantly brings comfort and contentment. Growing up, my grandmother would often make her signature chicken gnocchi soup during chilly evenings, filling our home with the delightful aroma of simmering herbs and tender chicken. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy gatherings and cherished moments shared around the table. Join me as we recreate this comforting dish and savor its creamy goodness together.

Course and Cuisine

Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (1 cup)
Dietary Considerations: Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free gnocchi, and can be adjusted for lactose intolerance by using lactose-free milk or dairy alternatives.

Cooking Time and Preparation Time

Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer soup)
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 pound gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Garnishes and Accompaniments

Crusty bread or garlic bread
Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Red pepper flakes (for added heat)
Cracked black pepper

Cultural Significance

Chicken gnocchi soup, while inspired by Italian cuisine, has become a beloved comfort food in many American households, combining the heartiness of chicken with the pillowy texture of gnocchi in a creamy broth.

Origin and History

Gnocchi, the star ingredient of this soup, has its origins in Italian cuisine, traditionally made with potatoes, flour, and eggs. Over time, it has been adapted into various dishes, including soups like this creamy chicken gnocchi soup.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi made from rice flour or potatoes.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for added aroma and flavor.

Beverage Pairings

Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chardonnay for a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the gnocchi can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, and add them to the soup just before serving.
Allowing the soup to boil vigorously after adding the dairy can cause it to curdle. Keep the heat low and stir gently.

Health Benefits

Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Spinach adds vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, promoting overall health.

Regional Variations

Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup may include sun-dried tomatoes and cannellini beans for a Tuscan-inspired twist.
Southern-style Chicken Gnocchi Soup may feature Cajun seasoning and smoked sausage for a Southern flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Chicken:
- Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Saute Aromatics:
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
Make Roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
Add Broth and Dairy:
- Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine and remove any lumps from the roux.
- Add milk, heavy cream, dried thyme, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Cook Gnocchi and Finish Soup:
- Add gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface (usually 2-3 minutes).
- Stir in cooked chicken, fresh spinach leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Troubleshooting

If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
If the soup separates or curdles, remove it from heat immediately and whisk vigorously to blend the ingredients back together.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Ladle
Soup bowls
Soup ladle

Sustainability Practices

Choose organic and ethically sourced chicken to support sustainable farming practices.
Use reusable containers for storing leftover soup instead of disposable plastic.

Flavor Profile and Texture

Creamy chicken gnocchi soup offers a luxurious blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and creamy broth infused with aromatic herbs. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while fresh spinach leaves provide a vibrant pop of color and texture.

Best Occasions to Serve

Serve creamy chicken gnocchi soup on cozy winter evenings, for family gatherings, or as a starter for special occasions. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table.

In summary, creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a delightful fusion of Italian and American flavors, offering warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence in every spoonful.

Table of Contents

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or half-and-half for a richer soup
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 pound gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook Chicken:

Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Saute Aromatics:

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.

Make Roux:

Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.

Add Broth and Dairy:

Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine and remove any lumps from the roux.
Add milk, heavy cream, dried thyme, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Cook Gnocchi and Finish Soup:

Add gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface (usually 2-3 minutes).
Stir in cooked chicken, fresh spinach leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until spinach wilts and cheese melts.