Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil 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 more until fragrant.
2. Make the Soup Base
Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. 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 and 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 and 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: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken. Alternatively, cook fresh chicken breasts in the broth until cooked through, then shred.
- Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade work well. Cooking times may vary.
- Half-and-Half vs. Heavy Cream: Half-and-half provides creaminess; heavy cream adds richness.
Variations
- Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Replace chicken with crumbled Italian sausage. Cook sausage first, then add vegetables.
- Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup: Omit chicken; use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spicy Gnocchi Soup: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook gnocchi fresh when reheating, as they soften. Alternatively, cook the soup without gnocchi, store it, and add gnocchi upon 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 after thawing.
Can I use a different cream?
Light cream, milk, or dairy-free alternatives (like coconut milk) can be used, but richness may vary.
What can I serve with this?
Enjoy with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a green salad.
This creamy Gnocchi Chicken Soup is perfect for chilly days. It’s a delicious and easy meal the whole family will love!