Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté 5-6 minutes until tender. Add garlic, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper; sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Soup Base
Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Add Chicken and Gnocchi
Add shredded chicken and gnocchi. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 5-7 minutes until gnocchi are tender and float.
4. Add Cream and Spinach
Stir in half-and-half (or cream). Simmer. Add spinach; cook 1-2 minutes until wilted.
5. Serve
Remove from heat. Ladle into bowls. Top with Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve warm with crusty bread.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: Leftover or rotisserie chicken works great. Alternatively, cook fresh chicken breasts in the broth.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade gnocchi work well. Cooking times may vary.
- Cream: Half-and-half provides creaminess, while heavy cream adds richness.
Variations
- Italian Sausage: Substitute crumbled Italian sausage for chicken. Cook sausage first, then add vegetables.
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook gnocchi fresh when reheating, as they can become soft. Alternatively, cook the soup without gnocchi, store it, and add gnocchi when reheating.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing the soup base is fine, but gnocchi may become mushy. Add fresh gnocchi when reheating thawed soup.
Can I use a different cream?
Light cream, milk, or dairy-free alternatives can be used, but the richness may be affected.
What to serve with it?
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad.
Enjoy this delicious and comforting Gnocchi Chicken Soup! Let me know if you have any questions.
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