Hearty and comforting, this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal. This soup combines tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy, savory broth. With its classic Italian flavors, it’s an excellent choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasonings creates a rich, flavorful broth that elevates each bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Comforting Meal: This dish is perfect for cold weather and provides a hearty, comforting option that warms the soul.
- Family-Friendly: Packed with nutrients and deliciousness, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you prepare the dish with ease and efficiency.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for soups as they provide enough space for all ingredients while evenly distributing heat.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and allows for thorough mixing of ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, making prep time faster.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1 Tbsp. chicken base
– 2 ½ Tbsp flour
– 5 cups chicken broth
– 1 – 12 oz can evaporated milk
– 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 Base Ingredients
Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Simmer the Base
Bring to a simmer by partially covering the pot with a lid. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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 Hot
Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your warm bowl of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Serve this soup with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth. A rustic sourdough or a French baguette works perfectly.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Include Grated Cheese
- Offer grated parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can sprinkle their desired amount on top for added creaminess and flavor.
Serve with Olive Oil Dipping Sauce
- Create a dipping sauce using olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs. This is perfect for drizzling over bread or salad.
How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
To make your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Opt for freshly minced garlic and ripe tomatoes when possible.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the overall taste.
Control Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour while cooking.
Store Wisely: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that gnocchi may absorb liquid over time.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Complement your hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully together.
Garlic Bread
Classic garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor that pairs well with soup.Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad brings crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons – perfect alongside your soup.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while balancing the creamy soup.Caprese Skewers
Skewers of mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a fresh bite before or after soup.Stuffed Mushrooms
Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant appetizer that complements the comforting nature of gnocchi soup.Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter filled with olives, cheeses, artichokes, and roasted peppers provides variety and enhances your meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some key pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping Ingredient Prep: Ensure all vegetables are diced before starting. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly; adding it too early can make it mushy. Wait until just before serving to add gnocchi for the best texture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasonings like Italian seasoning and garlic. They are essential for bringing out the flavors in your soup.
- Using Low-Quality Chicken Broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Opt for a high-quality or homemade chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Not Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or evaporated milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Forgetting to Taste: Always taste the soup before serving. This allows you to adjust seasoning as needed for a perfect balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag to store.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe special?
The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a comforting and savory flavor profile that is perfect for any occasion.
Can I customize this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or use alternative proteins such as turkey or beef for variation.
How long does this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe take to prepare?
The total time is about 45 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking.
What should I serve with Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.
Can I make this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it convenient for busy days.
Final Thoughts
The Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty and flavorful but also versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste. You can customize it with seasonal vegetables or different protein options. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Indulge in the warm embrace of our Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a delightful dish perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a comforting meal. This soup features tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi, harmoniously blended with sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant spinach in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian spices. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe promises to be a family favorite for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, reserve 2 Tbsp 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
- 1 Tbsp chicken base
- 2 ½ Tbsp flour
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- 3–4 oz baby spinach
- 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Mix in tomato paste, chicken base, and flour; cook for about a minute to create a roux.
- Gradually add chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat; simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Incorporate shredded chicken, spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi into the pot; cook until heated through (5–10 minutes).
- Serve hot with grated parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for enhanced flavor. Feel free to customize by adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or evaporated milk if desired.