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. 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 heavy 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
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Or, cook fresh chicken breasts in the broth.
- Store-bought or homemade gnocchi work well. Cooking times may vary.
- Half-and-half creates a creamy soup; heavy cream makes it richer.
Variations
- Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Substitute crumbled Italian sausage for chicken. Cook sausage first, then add vegetables.
- Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup: Omit chicken and 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 the gnocchi fresh when reheating, as they can become soft. Alternatively, cook the soup without gnocchi, refrigerate, 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 gnocchi fresh when reheating thawed soup.
Can I use a different cream?
Light cream, milk, or dairy-free alternatives (like coconut milk) can be used, but richness may vary.
What to serve with it?
Enjoy it with crusty bread or a green salad.
This Gnocchi Chicken Soup is a delicious and easy meal for chilly days! Enjoy!
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