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CHICKEN AND GNOCCHI SOUP

CHICKEN AND GNOCCHI SOUP

Chicken and gnocchi soup is a warm, creamy, and comforting dish featuring tender chicken and soft, pillowy gnocchi in a flavorful broth enriched with vegetables, fresh herbs, and cream. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for cozy nights and can be customized with your favorite ingredients for a satisfying family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Carbohydrates

  • 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Fats

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink on the outside.
  2. Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, add fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the chicken cook through.
  3. Add Gnocchi and Cream: Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually 2–3 minutes, until the gnocchi float and are tender. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring gently to combine and warm through without boiling.
  4. Final Touches: Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor.
  • Do not overcook the gnocchi to avoid mushiness; they cook quickly.
  • Browning the chicken before simmering adds extra flavor and texture.
  • Add cream last and off heat or on low heat to prevent curdling.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their bright flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken soup, gnocchi soup, creamy chicken soup, comfort food, easy dinner, family friendly, gluten free option