Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Indulge in the cozy comforts of winter with our Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This hearty dish brings together juicy chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and the bright zest of lemon, all swimming in a creamy base. Perfect for warming your soul on chilly days, this soup is a delightful choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of tender chicken and zesty lemon creates a warm and inviting taste that is perfect for winter.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is packed with flavor and texture, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of stock.
• Gluten-Free & Vegan Options: With simple substitutions, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup requires some essential tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering soups evenly without splattering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently while preventing scratches on your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for quickly chopping vegetables and preparing chicken safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 2 lbs. organic chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced thin
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Sea salt + black pepper, to taste

For the Gnocchi

• 1 (16 oz.) package potato gnocchi, homemade or store-bought (I like to use Delallo foods)
• 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp sea salt

For the Creamy Soup Base

• 4 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
• 5 cups organic chicken stock/broth
• 1 lemon, freshly-squeezed
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups organic heavy cream

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups organic kale, de-stemmed + chopped
• 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add extra virgin olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

In the same pot, melt unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and thyme sprigs; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then stir in On Everything All-Purpose Blend and sea salt.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Sprinkle flour into the pot while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken stock until smooth. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Add potato gnocchi to the pot along with sliced lemon. Cook according to package instructions or until they float to the top.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped kale, and cooked chicken. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!

How to Serve Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about enhancing its comforting qualities and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style.

Garnish Options

• Fresh herbs – Top each bowl with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
• Lemon wedges – Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus when desired.

Accompaniments

• Crusty bread – Pair with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

Meal Presentation

• Rustic bowls – Use rustic or handmade bowls to give your meal a cozy, home-cooked feel.
• Layered servings – For an elegant touch, layer the gnocchi at the bottom and pour the soup on top just before serving.

How to Perfect Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup can make all the difference between good and great. Here are some essential tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use high-quality chicken – Starting with organic chicken breasts enhances the flavor and quality of your soup.
• Don’t skip the garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds depth to the broth; sauté it until fragrant for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the creaminess – Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for creaminess in the soup.
• Incorporate seasonal veggies – Add seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Taste as you go – Regularly taste your soup while cooking to adjust seasoning as needed for perfect balance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad – This crisp salad brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creaminess.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, complementing the dish well.
4. Herbed Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs can absorb extra broth, adding another layer of texture.
5. Cheesy Biscuits – Soft biscuits with cheese pair wonderfully, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can offer a nice crunch and brightness alongside the rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not sautéing the garlic and thyme first can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take a moment to cook these ingredients before adding others.

• Overcooking the Gnocchi: If you overcook the gnocchi, they can become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and follow package instructions closely.

• Using Low-Quality Chicken Broth: A poor-quality broth can affect the taste of your soup. Opt for organic chicken stock or make your own for the best flavor.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a bland dish. Always season throughout the cooking process and adjust at the end.

• Ignoring Lemon Balance: Too much lemon zest or juice can overpower the soup. Start with less and gradually add more to achieve the perfect balance of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• The soup is best used within 1–2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup unique?

This soup combines tender chicken with fluffy gnocchi and zesty lemon flavors, creating a comforting winter dish that’s both hearty and refreshing.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a delicious dairy-free version of Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

How do I customize my Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Add seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas, or swap chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

You can use store-bought potato gnocchi or make homemade gnocchi for a more personalized touch in your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Customize it with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love its richness balanced by bright lemon notes!

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Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of winter with our Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This delightful dish features succulent chicken, tender gnocchi, and a refreshing touch of lemon, all enveloped in a luscious creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup is sure to become a comforting staple in your home. Quick to prepare, it delivers both flavor and nourishment without the fuss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs organic chicken breasts
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 5 cups organic chicken stock/broth
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 ½ cups organic heavy cream
• 2 cups organic kale, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Sea salt + black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 4 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter and sauté garlic and thyme until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in seasoning blend.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pot while stirring for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add gnocchi and sliced lemon; cook according to package instructions or until they float.
5. Lower heat, stir in cream, lemon juice, chopped kale, and cooked chicken; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot with grated cheese on top.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg