Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Try this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fat free reduced sodium chicken broth
- 5 tablespoons light butter (i use land o’lakes)
- 2 cups fat free half-and-half
- 16 oz package of gnocchi (i used wegmans mini gnocchi but regular-sized gnocchi are just fine!)
- 2 cups torn fresh spinach leaves
- Carbohydrate 9.13671957857919 g
- Cholesterol 26.30835746 mg
- Fat 0.919975205286667 g
- Fiber 0.863938336022695 g
- Protein 11.4004005733 g
- Saturated Fat 0.194322498741812 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (1 cup) serving (240g)
- Sodium 420.189895717064 mg
- Sugar 8.27278124255649 g
- Trans Fat 0.327521248761792 g
- Calories 91 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a dutch oven or soup pot to medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic and stir to coat. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onions are softened.
- Add the broth and water and increase the heat to bring the contents to a boil.
- Add the chicken breasts, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme and nutmeg and once bubbling again, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover.
- Simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes until the chicken breasts are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- About 10 minutes before the chicken is done simmering, mix together the flour, salt and pepper in a small dish.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in the flour a little at a time until fully combined and let the “paste” that forms cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the half-and-half a little at a time until the mixture is completely combined, smooth and creamy.
- Cook for another few minutes, whisking occasionally, until the mixture thickens and lightly bubbles.
- Remove from heat.
- When the chicken from step one is finished cooking, remove it to a cutting board (recover the pot and continue to simmer the other ingredients).
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Uncover the simmering pot and add the gnocchi to the broth and vegetables.
- Re-cover and simmer for the time listed on the package of gnocchi (likely somewhere between 2-5 minutes).
- Uncover and whisk or stir in the creamy mixture from step two until well combined.
- Add the chopped chicken and the spinach to the pot and stir to combine.
- Cook, stirring, for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Add salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- Serve warm.
My Comfort Food: Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pickups, homework battles, and the never-ending to-do list. That's why I rely on recipes that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, satisfying. This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is my go-to when I need a comforting and nutritious meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's the perfect balance of creamy richness and fresh vegetables, making it a weeknight winner in our house.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the cooking process is straightforward. I usually prep the vegetables while the chicken simmers, saving me time and effort. The creamy sauce is a revelation – a simple flour-butter roux whisked into half-and-half creates a luxurious texture without being heavy. The addition of fresh spinach adds a burst of vibrant color and nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious meal for the whole family.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add diced bell peppers for extra sweetness, or toss in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can also use different types of gnocchi – potato, ricotta, or even butternut squash gnocchi would work well. The beauty of cooking is in the personal touch, and this recipe offers ample room for creativity and adaptation to your tastes and what's available.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, this soup also evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. The aroma of simmering chicken and herbs fills the kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere that melts away the stress of the day. It’s the kind of meal that nourishes not just the body, but also the soul. And the best part? Leftovers are just as delicious the next day, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. So, whether you're a busy professional, a tired parent, or simply someone looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, this Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a recipe you'll want to keep on hand.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of your broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the soup. I prefer using a low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Don't overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Follow the package directions carefully to avoid mushy gnocchi.
- Add fresh herbs at the end: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving brightens the flavor and adds a beautiful pop of color.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
This Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is more than just a recipe; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl, a testament to the power of simple, delicious food to nourish both body and soul. It’s a meal that speaks of home, warmth, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.
