Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach in a creamy broth, this soup bursts with classic Italian flavors. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian spices infuses every bite with authentic taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home.
• Comforting Meal: Ideal for chilly days, this soup warms you up and satisfies your hunger.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft gnocchi and creamy broth—it’s a hit with everyone!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is crucial.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for even heating and allows you to cook all ingredients together without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, helping you mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup has tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun dried tomatoes, spinach, in a creamy/savory broth, infused w/ classic Italian flavors.

For the Soup Base

• 8 oz jar oil-packed sun dried tomatoes – chopped (reserve 2 Tbsp. of oil)
• 1 Large onion (diced)
• 3 Large carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste

For the Broth and Texture

• 1 Tbsp. chicken base
• 2 ½ Tbsp flour
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 – 12 oz can evaporated milk

For the Finishing Touches

• 2 cups heaping cooked chicken (- shredded or chopped)
• 3-4 oz. baby spinach
• 1 pound shelf stable gnocchi
• Grated parmesan cheese for serving

How to Make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 Tbsp. sun dried tomato oil until hot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies start to soften (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Add the sun dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Tomato Paste and Flour

Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to enhance flavors.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Simmer the Base

Bring to a simmer and partially cover the pot with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi into the pot. Cook over medium-low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for that extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A warm baguette or sourdough adds texture and absorbs the delicious broth wonderfully.

Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a light, fresh salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Garlic Bread

• Offer garlic bread as an extra treat. Its buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy soup and adds a satisfying crunch.

Parmesan Topping

• Enhance each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese. It melts into the soup, adding creaminess and depth to each spoonful.

Lemon Wedge

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish. The acidity balances out the creaminess and enhances all the flavors in the soup.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

To ensure your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality chicken broth: A rich, flavorful broth will serve as the backbone of your soup, making it more delicious.

• Don’t overcook gnocchi: Add gnocchi towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. You might want more salt or pepper depending on personal preference.

• Add veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

• Thicken if desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delightful side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring added depth of flavor.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies makes for an excellent shareable side.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs offer a satisfying bite.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons provides a crunchy contrast.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft herbed focaccia is perfect for soaking up leftover broth from your soup.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch and complements the meal’s heartiness.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are a delightful addition that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: This can lead to bland flavors. Always sauté vegetables to enhance their taste before adding liquids.
• Not measuring ingredients: Precision matters in cooking. Use the correct measurements for spices and liquids to ensure balanced flavors.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly. Adding it too early can result in mushy dumplings. Add it during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring broth quality: Low-quality broth can affect your soup’s flavor significantly. Use a good-quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in potency. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• The soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe:

How can I customize my Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Feel free to substitute shredded turkey or beef for a different protein option.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace evaporated milk with coconut milk or a nut-based cream alternative.

Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time; just store properly and reheat when needed.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you need comfort food. Try making this delightful soup today, and enjoy its rich flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of Italian cuisine with our Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth that bursts with classic Italian flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 large carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chicken base
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• 1 pound shelf-stable gnocchi
• 3–4 oz baby spinach
• 12 oz can evaporated milk

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add sun-dried tomatoes and garlic along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste and chicken base; mix well with flour. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer, cover partially, and reduce heat to low for about 15 minutes.
6. Add shredded chicken, spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi; cook on medium-low heat for an additional 5–10 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg