Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth bursting with classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or impress guests at dinner, this soup is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a savory experience that warms the soul.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein from chicken, this soup is not only tasty but also nourishing.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread, it suits any occasion from family dinners to casual gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: The pillowy gnocchi appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even heat distribution while cooking larger quantities of ingredients, ensuring everything cooks uniformly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping you mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging your pot’s surface.

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Ingredients

For this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• 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)

Seasoning & Base

• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 Tbsp. chicken base

Liquids & Thickeners

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

Main Ingredients

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

Topping

• 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 the reserved sun-dried tomato oil until hot.
– Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
– Sauté until the veggies start to soften (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

• Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

• Add the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour into the pot.
• Stir until well combined and cook while stirring for about 1 minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

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

Step 5: Simmer

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

Step 6: Finish Off with Gnocchi

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience, especially when you pair it with thoughtful accompaniments. This soup is hearty and filling on its own, but enhancing it with the right sides can elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Consider serving a warm baguette or artisan sourdough.

Add a Simple Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy soup beautifully, adding freshness to your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil on top adds color and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Serve with Cheese Crisps

• Homemade cheese crisps made from baked or fried cheese add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft gnocchi.

Include Pickled Vegetables

• A small dish of pickled vegetables offers a tangy contrast that brightens up each spoonful of soup.

Offer Extra Parmesan on the Side

• Provide grated parmesan cheese for guests to sprinkle over their servings, allowing them to customize their flavor experience.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

For a flawless Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade chicken broth if possible, as it provides a richer flavor compared to store-bought versions.

• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For an even better texture, cook gnocchi according to package instructions separately and add them just before serving.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.

• Incorporate Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for varied textures and flavors.

• Control Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of evaporated milk or substitute it with non-dairy alternatives.

• Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat to prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the broth; simply spread butter and minced garlic on bread and toast until golden.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and broccoli roasted in olive oil offer savory crunch alongside the creamy soup.

4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a classic pairing.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese are bite-sized treats that complement the main dish well.

6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cooled and sliced into cakes can be grilled or baked, offering a delightful texture contrast.

7. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, roasted peppers, and artichokes adds variety and excitement to your meal presentation.

8. Focaccia Bread: Soft yet crispy focaccia topped with rosemary can be an excellent option for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Ordinary Tomatoes: Using regular diced tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes can result in a less intense flavor. Opt for oil-packed sun dried tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Neglecting the Vegetables: Skipping the sautéing step for the onions, carrots, and celery will lead to a bland soup. Always sauté until they soften to enhance their flavors.
• Not Scraping the Pot: Failing to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot can leave out essential flavors. Make sure to stir well when adding chicken broth.
• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long may cause them to become mushy. Add them towards the end and cook just until tender.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can result in a flat dish. Always sample and add more salt or spices as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, gnocchi may change texture.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls; cover loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, using store-bought gnocchi saves time while still offering delicious results.

What type of chicken should I use?

Cooked chicken breast or thighs work well. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

How can I make this soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, add more evaporated milk or substitute with heavy cream.

Is this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your preference. Try it out today for a comforting meal that warms both body and soul!