Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
A cozy, creamy soup loaded with tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and fresh spinach. This comforting one-pot meal is reminiscent of the Olive Garden classic and perfect for a chilly evening.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Chicken
- b.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- c.Season the chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- d.Add the chicken to the pot and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- e.Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Aromatics
- b.Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot over medium heat.
- c.Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (the mirepoix). Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Soup Base
- b.Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates a roux that will thicken the soup.
- c.Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- d.Stir in the dried thyme, the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer and Add Gnocchi
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly.
- c.Slowly stir in the half-and-half. Heat gently but do not let it come to a rolling boil, which can cause the dairy to curdle.
- d.Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to package directions, typically until they float to the surface, about 3-4 minutes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Return the cooked chicken to the pot.
- c.Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts completely, about 1-2 minutes.
- d.Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a shortcut, use 2-3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. Add it in the final step.
- 2Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the half-and-half, as it can cause the dairy to curdle. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
- 3Don't overcook the gnocchi. As soon as they float, they are done. Overcooking can make them mushy.
- 4The soup will thicken as it cools. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- 5For a heartier green, use chopped kale instead of spinach. Add it a few minutes before the gnocchi to give it more time to soften.
Adapt it for your goals.
Make it Creamier
For a richer, more decadent soup, replace the half-and-half with 1 cup of heavy cream.
Vegetarian DelightVegetarian Delight
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms along with the onions and carrots for an earthy flavor.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage or a sprig of fresh rosemary along with the thyme for a more complex herbal aroma.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a gentle background heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach provide essential nutrients, including Vitamin A for vision, Vitamin K for bone health, and antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
Comforting and Hydrating
As a soup, this dish contributes to your daily fluid intake. Its warm and creamy nature makes it a comforting meal, which can be beneficial for mood and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
A standard serving (about 1.5 cups) of this soup contains approximately 450-550 calories. This can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the chicken and half-and-half.