The combination of tender chicken, pillowy potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach bathed in a rich, creamy broth makes this Chicken Gnocchi Soup a timeless classic. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. This recipe is a breeze to make, thanks to the slow cooker, which melds the flavors beautifully over hours. The result is a hearty and satisfying soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or serving to guests. You can even adapt the recipe to include more veggies or use a dairy-free cream substitute to suit your preferences.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups potato gnocchi
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large slow cooker on the sauté setting or in a skillet. Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the same pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the chicken back into the pot, then stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, add the gnocchi and spinach. Stir well and continue cooking until the gnocchi is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 4-8 hours (depending on setting) | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 8 hours 20 minutes
The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a beloved comfort dish with its roots in classic Italian cuisine. Combining the rich flavors of creamy broth, tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach, this soup is a symphony of textures and tastes. Popularized by Italian-American restaurants, it has become a household favorite for its hearty yet balanced composition. Here’s why this dish deserves a prime spot on your table and in your recipe collection.
Origins and Inspiration
Chicken Gnocchi Soup takes inspiration from Tuscany, where simple, fresh ingredients come together to create dishes that are as nourishing as they are flavorful. The incorporation of gnocchi—a type of Italian dumpling typically made from potatoes—gives this soup its unique, satisfying quality. This dish merges the idea of a rich, creamy soup with the heartiness of pasta, making it a meal that stands alone without the need for additional sides.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Unparalleled Comfort: Few meals offer the sheer coziness of a creamy soup. Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the culinary equivalent of a warm blanket on a chilly day.
- Versatility: This recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, or use gluten-free gnocchi to accommodate those with sensitivities.
- Nutritional Balance: With lean protein from chicken, vitamins and minerals from spinach, and satisfying carbohydrates from gnocchi, this soup delivers a well-rounded meal.
- Ease of Preparation: The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the flavors meld perfectly over time.
Health Benefits
- Lean Protein from Chicken: Chicken provides a high-quality protein source essential for muscle repair and immune health.
- Spinach Power: This leafy green is rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, promoting healthy blood circulation and bone health.
- Gnocchi as Comfort Carbs: Potato-based gnocchi offers a source of energy without being overly heavy, making the dish filling but not overwhelming.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
- Time-Saving: By using a slow cooker, you can prep everything in minutes and let the machine handle the rest. Perfect for busy schedules!
- Flavorful Depth: Slow cooking allows the herbs, chicken, and vegetables to infuse the creamy broth, resulting in a deeply flavorful soup.
- Stress-Free Hosting: This soup is an ideal dish for entertaining. It stays warm and ready for hours, ensuring your guests are always served a hot, delicious meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Brown the Chicken First: While optional, browning the chicken adds a layer of depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, swap dried thyme and Italian seasoning with fresh herbs to enhance the aroma and taste.
- Homemade Gnocchi: For the ambitious, homemade gnocchi can elevate this soup to gourmet status. However, store-bought gnocchi works beautifully in this recipe.
- Add a Twist: Customize the soup by adding mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even a hint of nutmeg to the broth for a unique flavor.
How to Serve and Store
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an authentic Italian finish.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the creamy texture.
- Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, the gnocchi may become soft upon thawing. Consider freezing the base without the gnocchi and adding it fresh during reheating.
Variations You’ll Love
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter, lactose-free option.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth for a meat-free alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty twist.
- Seafood Spin: Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops to create a luxurious seafood gnocchi soup.
Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party, preparing a weeknight family meal, or batch-cooking for meal prep, Chicken Gnocchi Soup fits the bill. It’s elegant enough to impress guests but simple and familiar enough to be a family favorite.
Common Questions About Chicken Gnocchi Soup
1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Reheat it gently to maintain its creamy consistency.
2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. If using rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken, add it in during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
3. Is it possible to make this soup in a pressure cooker?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the initial steps, then pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes. Add the gnocchi and spinach afterward and cook for another 2 minutes on the sauté setting.
Conclusion
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or feeding a crowd, this dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. With its rich history, adaptable nature, and unbeatable taste, it’s no wonder this soup has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of so many.
Add it to your meal rotation, and let this bowl of creamy goodness warm your heart and home!
