Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant vegetables in a creamy broth. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends, this soup embraces classic Italian flavors that warm the soul. With its rich texture and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite for winter dinners or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a robust flavor profile that satisfies.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is versatile enough to serve on its own or with crusty bread.
• Nourishing Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and wholesome veggies, it’s a comforting dish that nourishes both body and spirit.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to streamline your kitchen experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which is important for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in seasoning and ingredients for best flavor results.

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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.

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For the Broth

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

For the Final Touch

• 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 Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 Tbsp. of 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 Flavorings

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Sauté for another minute until aromatic.

Step 3: Create the Base

Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined.
– Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to toast the flour slightly.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
– Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a simmer and partially cover with a lid. Reduce heat to low.
– Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes to develop flavors.

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 heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for added richness! Enjoy your delicious bowl of comfort!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience. This creamy, savory soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a wholesome meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Choose a rustic sourdough or a baguette for added texture.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and enhances the Italian flavor profile.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness.

Add Cheese on Top

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top just before serving. This adds depth and enhances the umami taste.

Offer a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can elevate the dish’s flavors and provide an aromatic finish.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create the best version possible.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Cook gnocchi separately: If you prefer firmer gnocchi, cook them separately and add them just before serving to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
• Thicken broth if needed: If you desire a thicker consistency, mix in an extra tablespoon of flour or use cornstarch slurry.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delicious side dishes that round out your meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes an excellent dipper for the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan brings a crunchy contrast.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing side.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized can add great flavor alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs and herbs provide a tasty bite-sized treat.
6. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil is an easy yet elegant addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is perfect.

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can result in a bland flavor. Take the time to sauté until softened for a richer taste.
• Overcooking gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make it mushy. Add it during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it pillowy.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance flavors.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold chicken or broth can lower the cooking temperature. Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother cooking process.
• Not scraping the bottom of the pot: Neglecting to scrape up browned bits can mean missing out on flavor. Make sure to do this when you add the broth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

What makes this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe unique?

This recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes for a rich and creamy flavor that’s distinctly Italian.

Can I make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat as needed.

How do I customize my Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out chicken for turkey if preferred.

Are there any substitutions for gnocchi?

You can use gluten-free gnocchi or even pasta shapes of your choice if you’re looking for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try this comforting recipe today, and enjoy a warm bowl that’s perfect for any occasion!