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Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy, Creamy Comfort Dish

When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. One such soup that’s become a staple for chilly days is Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Inspired by Olive Garden’s famous dish, our version of this beloved comfort food is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with loved ones.

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Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy, Creamy Comfort Dish

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Cozy up with a bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup, the ultimate comfort food! 🍲✨ Creamy, rich, and packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh veggies, this soup is everything you need for a warm, satisfying meal. 🥣 It’s like a hug in a bowl! Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a comforting dish to make you feel right at home. 😌❤️

#ComfortInABowl 🥣 #ChickenGnocchiSoup 🍲 #CozyEats 💕 #SoupSeason 🍂 #CreamyGoodness 😋 #HomemadeDelight 🏡 #ComfortFoodGoals ✨ #WinterWarmers ❄️ #SoulSoothingMeals 💖 #DeliciouslyCozy 😍

  • Total Time: 47 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 diced yellow onion
  • 1 diced celery stalk
  • 1 peeled and diced carrot
  • 1 minced garlic clove
  • 1 tablespoon minced thyme
  • 2 teaspoons minced sage
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 ½ cups chicken stock
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • 12 ounces gnocchi
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper, then sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll want to cook them until they become soft and translucent, with the onions turning a light golden color.

Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute. The garlic will release its aromatic flavor, infusing the vegetables with a warm, savory aroma. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Step 2: Add the Herbs Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, it’s time to add the thyme and sage. These herbs will infuse the soup with a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth. Continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the herbs to release their oils and aromas.

Step 3: Create the Roux Lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir the flour into the mixture to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the flour. You want to cook out the raw flavor of the flour while still maintaining its thickening properties.

Step 4: Add the Stock Next, whisk in the chicken stock gradually, stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. The stock will blend with the roux to create a smooth, rich base for the soup. Once the stock is fully incorporated, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.

Step 5: Stir in the Milk and Chicken Once the soup has thickened, stir in the whole milk. The milk will make the soup creamy and velvety, adding to the comforting texture. Now it’s time to add the shredded chicken. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken, make sure the chicken is fully shredded to ensure it integrates well into the soup. Stir the chicken into the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Gnocchi Finally, stir in the gnocchi and continue to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they begin to float to the top of the soup. The gnocchi will absorb the flavors of the broth and become soft and tender, creating the perfect addition to the creamy base. Taste the soup one last time and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve it hot. You can garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this delicious soup brings.

Notes

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. It’s already cooked, shredded, and ready to go, making it a huge time-saver.
  • Pre-cooked Gnocchi: While making homemade gnocchi is a fun project, store-bought gnocchi works just as well for this soup. It’s quick, easy, and saves you the effort of making them from scratch.
  • Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure that the vegetables cook evenly, make sure they are all cut into similar-sized pieces. This will help the soup come together smoothly and allow the vegetables to cook at the same rate.
  • Keep the Heat Low After Adding Milk: Once the milk is added, reduce the heat to a steady simmer. This will prevent the milk from curdling and help the soup thicken properly.
  • Adjust Seasoning to Taste: The seasoning of the soup is key to bringing out its flavors. Be sure to taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
  • Garnish for Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, top your soup with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add a nice contrast to the creamy soup and enhance its overall taste.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 32 minutes

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for something easy yet delicious to try, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a great recipe to add to your repertoire. The combination of tender, pillowy gnocchi, shredded chicken, and a flavorful blend of vegetables in a creamy broth creates a soul-warming dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make this delicious soup from scratch. We’ll start with the ingredients you’ll need, followed by a step-by-step guide to preparing the soup. Along the way, we’ll offer helpful tips for substitutions and variations, as well as suggestions for serving this comforting dish. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to make a pot of Chicken Gnocchi Soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

The key to making this soup a success lies in the quality of the ingredients and the balance of flavors. Luckily, the ingredients for Chicken Gnocchi Soup are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Unsalted Butter: The base for sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich, flavorful soup.
  • Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup. A finely diced onion works best for even cooking.
  • Celery: A classic ingredient in many soups, celery provides a mild, refreshing crunch and complements the other vegetables.
  • Carrot: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a vibrant color to the soup.
  • Garlic: A must-have in any savory dish, garlic brings warmth and aromatic richness to the soup.
  • Thyme and Sage: These herbs add a fragrant, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth and chicken. Fresh herbs work best, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux with the butter, flour helps thicken the soup and gives it a creamy consistency.
  • Whole Milk: The base for the creamy soup broth. Whole milk creates a smooth, rich texture that adds to the comfort factor.
  • Chicken Stock: Provides a savory, rich foundation for the soup. You can use homemade or store-bought chicken stock, but be sure to choose a good quality one for the best flavor.
  • Cooked and Shredded Chicken: This is the star of the soup. You can use leftover chicken or purchase a rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings are the perfect addition to this soup. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the broth, making them an ideal pairing for this creamy soup.
  • Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the soup. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the chicken stock may already have salt, so be careful not to over-season.

These ingredients work together to create a smooth, flavorful base for your Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Now, let’s walk through the process of making this soup step-by-step.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easier than you might think, especially with our simple and straightforward recipe. Follow these steps for a delicious, comforting soup that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper, then sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll want to cook them until they become soft and translucent, with the onions turning a light golden color.

Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute. The garlic will release its aromatic flavor, infusing the vegetables with a warm, savory aroma. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Step 2: Add the Herbs Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, it’s time to add the thyme and sage. These herbs will infuse the soup with a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth. Continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the herbs to release their oils and aromas.

Step 3: Create the Roux Lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir the flour into the mixture to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the flour. You want to cook out the raw flavor of the flour while still maintaining its thickening properties.

Step 4: Add the Stock Next, whisk in the chicken stock gradually, stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. The stock will blend with the roux to create a smooth, rich base for the soup. Once the stock is fully incorporated, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.

Step 5: Stir in the Milk and Chicken Once the soup has thickened, stir in the whole milk. The milk will make the soup creamy and velvety, adding to the comforting texture. Now it’s time to add the shredded chicken. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken, make sure the chicken is fully shredded to ensure it integrates well into the soup. Stir the chicken into the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Gnocchi Finally, stir in the gnocchi and continue to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they begin to float to the top of the soup. The gnocchi will absorb the flavors of the broth and become soft and tender, creating the perfect addition to the creamy base. Taste the soup one last time and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve it hot. You can garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this delicious soup brings.

Tips and Tricks for Chicken Gnocchi Soup Success

To ensure that your Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. It’s already cooked, shredded, and ready to go, making it a huge time-saver.
  2. Pre-cooked Gnocchi: While making homemade gnocchi is a fun project, store-bought gnocchi works just as well for this soup. It’s quick, easy, and saves you the effort of making them from scratch.
  3. Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure that the vegetables cook evenly, make sure they are all cut into similar-sized pieces. This will help the soup come together smoothly and allow the vegetables to cook at the same rate.
  4. Keep the Heat Low After Adding Milk: Once the milk is added, reduce the heat to a steady simmer. This will prevent the milk from curdling and help the soup thicken properly.
  5. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: The seasoning of the soup is key to bringing out its flavors. Be sure to taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Garnish for Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, top your soup with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add a nice contrast to the creamy soup and enhance its overall taste.

Variations and Substitutions for Chicken Gnocchi Soup

While this Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

  • Vegetarian Version: If you prefer a vegetarian soup, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach. Vegetable broth can also be used in place of chicken stock.
  • Gluten-Free: To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux. Be sure to check that your chicken stock is also gluten-free.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, or peas, for added nutrition and color.
  • Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. It will give the soup an extra layer of flavor and spice.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is hearty and satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options for serving this delicious soup:

  • Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a baguette for extra crunch.
  • Salad: A light, refreshing salad pairs well with the richness of the soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a Caesar salad for a classic pairing.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes, make a great side dish that complements the flavors of the soup.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and full of heartwarming ingredients that will make you feel cozy from the inside out. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this soup is sure to be a hit. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a dish that everyone will love. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking—your perfect bowl of soup awaits!

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