Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
A rich and creamy soup that will quickly become a favorite! This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup has lots of flavor and is hearty and satisfying, yet elegant too.
A rich and creamy soup that will quickly become a favorite! This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup has lots of flavor and is hearty and satisfying, yet elegant too.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 leaf
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 ribs celery (chopped)
- 2 tbsps butter
- 1/2 tsp thyme (dried)
- 6 slices thick cut bacon (chopped in bite sized pieces)
- 3 large carrots (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp basil (dried)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 16 oz gnocchi ((i get the refrigerated package or the one by the dry pasta at the store.))
- 5 oz baby spinach (fresh)
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed or finely minced)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (about 4 inches long)
- 2 to 3 chicken breasts (uncooked, boneless, skinless)
- Carbohydrate 5.47673827550044 g
- Cholesterol 590.156666698345 mg
- Fat 132.120436908978 g
- Fiber 1.34170794868767 g
- Protein 135.4328343202 g
- Saturated Fat 43.6282131569924 g
- Serving Size 1 1 - 8 (882g)
- Sodium 907.763411013151 mg
- Sugar 4.13503032681278 g
- Trans Fat 11.1865339965957 g
- Calories 1783 calories
Step-by-step
- Turn on the Sauté function (Med/Normal heat) and add the chopped bacon. Cook until mostly done.
- Add the butter, onion, carrot, celery, and bay leaf, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until onions are just starting to turn translucent.
- Add the rosemary, basil, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and the garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the chicken broth. Stir.
- Add in the chicken breasts.
- Put the lid on and lock in place. Set the steam release knob to the Sealing position.
- Cancel the sauté function.
- Press the Pressure Cook (or Manual) button or dial, and the + or - button or dial to select 9 minutes. High pressure. It will take several minutes to come to pressure.
- When cooking cycle has ended, let the pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes (10 minute natural release).
- Next, turn the steam release knob to Venting (in short bursts until you are sure no soup spews out of the vent with the steam), and let the remaining pressure out. When the pin in the lid drops down, open the lid.
- Remove the chicken breasts to a bowl and discard the bay leaf.
- Turn on the sauté function again.
- Add the gnocchi and stir. Place the glass lid, if you have one, on the pot. If you place the pressure cooker's lid on the pot, make sure it is turned to Venting.
- Cook the gnocchi until it floats to the top. Just a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, shred the chicken breasts.
- When the gnocchi is finished, turn off the pot. Add the parmesan cheese and stir.
- Add the chicken back in, and the spinach. Stir.
- Stir in the heavy cream.
- Serve hot.
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and delicious, and that's where my Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup comes in. This recipe is a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when I'm juggling work deadlines, carpools, and homework help. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this soup comes together in a flash, leaving me more time to focus on the things that truly matter – my family.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to a combination of savory bacon, tender chicken, and earthy vegetables. The creamy texture is unbelievably rich and satisfying, without being overly heavy. It’s the perfect comfort food, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. I often double the recipe and freeze half for another busy night, knowing I have a delicious, healthy meal ready in minutes.
The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process immensely. It does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while I attend to other tasks. The pressure cooking method ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked, and the gnocchi remains fluffy and delightful. There's no need for constant stirring or monitoring – just set it and forget it! Once the pressure is released, a quick stir of Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach adds a burst of freshness and elevates the soup to another level.
Beyond its convenience, this soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions. You can also swap out the chicken for sausage or even shrimp for a lighter meal. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I know it will quickly become a favorite in yours, too. It's the perfect balance of speed, flavor, and comfort – everything a busy mom needs in a weeknight meal. Give it a try, and I'm confident you'll agree!
Tips and Variations for your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while sautéing the vegetables. A dash of your favorite hot sauce also does wonders.
Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon and chicken, and substitute vegetable broth. Add some hearty vegetables like chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
Boost the greens: Add more spinach or experiment with kale, chard, or even arugula for a nutrient-rich boost.
Creamy variations: Instead of heavy cream, try using coconut milk for a richer, slightly sweeter flavor. Half-and-half is another good option if you want a lighter creaminess.
Leftovers are a blessing: This soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together, making it a perfect lunch or dinner for another busy day.
Serving suggestions: Serve with crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and flavor. A side salad balances the richness of the soup.
More than just a soup: A testament to balanced living
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a reflection of my life. As a business professional, I value efficiency and quality. I want something delicious that doesn't compromise my schedule or my commitment to healthy, home-cooked meals. This recipe delivers on both fronts. It’s my way of ensuring that even on the busiest days, I can still sit down with my family and enjoy a satisfying, nourishing meal.
The simplicity of this recipe symbolizes the balance I strive for in my life. I'm juggling multiple responsibilities, yet I still find time for what's important. This soup reminds me that it's possible to be successful in my career while still nurturing my family and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s a small act of self-care amidst the chaos, a delicious moment of calm in a busy world. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.
This soup isn't merely fuel; it's a symbol of intentionality and efficiency, a reflection of the mindful choices we make to nourish ourselves and our families. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into the trap of convenience meals, but taking a few extra minutes to prepare something wholesome, like this creamy chicken gnocchi soup, is an act of self-love and a commitment to a healthier, happier life.
So, the next time you find yourself pressed for time, remember this recipe. It's a testament to the fact that delicious, healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It’s a reminder that even amidst the whirlwind of daily life, we can prioritize nourishment and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and family time. Enjoy!
