On those chilly evenings when I crave something both comforting and quick, my go-to is always a hearty soup. Craving comfort food that’s quick and nourishing? Our Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach is the answer! Perfect for busy parents, health-conscious eaters looking for easy dinner ideas, and anyone needing a hearty meal without the fuss. This easy, hearty, and wholesome soup delivers warmth and flavor in every spoonful, making it truly family-friendly. Get ready to discover how simple it is to whip up this favorite, packed with smart tips for success. This particular Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach is a perfect example of what I mean.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredient Spotlight and Smart Choices
To make this comforting Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach, you’ll need a few simple items:
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, for sautéing and building flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion (about 1.5 cups/225g), diced, for aromatic base
- 3 cloves garlic (about 1 tablespoon/15g), minced, for depth of flavor
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces, for lean protein
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, for earthy notes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, for fragrant aroma
- 6 cups (1.4L) chicken broth, low sodium preferred, as the flavor foundation
- 16 oz (450g) potato gnocchi, for that comforting, pillowy bite
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, for a boost of nutrients and vibrant color
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, for luxurious creaminess and richness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
These simple yet high-quality ingredients are the foundation for a truly satisfying Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach.
Upgraded Versions
Elevate your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach by opting for high-quality ingredients. Consider organic chicken for enhanced flavor, artisan-quality potato gnocchi for a truly premium texture, or locally sourced, vibrant green spinach for peak freshness. Choosing organic ingredients can make a noticeable difference in taste.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, simply use chickpea or other certified gluten-free gnocchi. If you’re avoiding dairy, try full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative in place of heavy cream. To boost the protein content, you could add a can of rinsed cannellini beans or extra chicken. And if you’re not a fan of spinach, try swapping it for chopped kale for a slightly different texture and nutrient profile.
Seasonal/Freshness Tips
For the best flavor in your soup, always choose vibrant green spinach with no wilting. When selecting gnocchi, look for plump pieces with a soft texture. Using fresh, aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, if available, will add an even brighter note. Sometimes I’ll also add crisp carrots or celery for more freshness and crunch.
Clear Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach is simpler than you might think! Follow these easy steps for a delicious, hearty meal.
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook gently until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook until lightly golden on all sides and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as it cooks.
3. Deglaze and Build Flavor: Pour in about 1/2 cup (120ml) of the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this adds incredible flavor to your soup! Stir in the dried thyme and dried rosemary.
4. Simmer: Add the remaining chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the chicken is completely cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Increase the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package directions until tender, usually just 2-3 minutes. Then, fold in the fresh spinach a handful at a time until it just wilts into the soup.
6. Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through gently for a minute or two. Be careful not to boil the soup once the cream is added. Taste the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs) as needed to your preference.
Optional Shortcuts
For those super busy evenings, you can easily use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred the meat and add it during step 5 with the gnocchi and spinach. Pre-chopped mirepoix (a mix of onions, carrots, and celery) from the grocery store can also save you a lot of prep time on the aromatics.
Inline Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: If your soup turns out too thin for your liking, simply simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate. If it’s too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If the flavor seems a little bland, my trick is always a pinch more salt, pepper, or a dash of your favorite dried herbs.
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort, and this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach truly shines when you need it most. It’s incredibly versatile for various occasions.
Perfect Occasions & Serving Inspiration
This delightful Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach is an absolute champion for cozy weeknight dinners. It’s my go-to when I want to comfort a sick family member, offering a nourishing hug in a bowl. It also works beautifully as a hearty starter for a casual gathering, or even makes a fantastic school lunch when packed in a good quality thermos, staying warm until lunchtime!
Pairing Ideas:
- Serve this rich soup with a side of crusty artisan bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of creamy goodness.
- Warm garlic knots are another excellent companion, adding a touch of savory flavor.
- For a lighter contrast, a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette is just right.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating:
This soup is a dream for make-ahead meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, making your weeknights so much easier. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months; just note that the gnocchi may soften slightly upon thawing and reheating. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Lifestyle Advantages of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach fits wonderfully into a healthy lifestyle. It’s a balanced meal providing lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the gnocchi, and essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh spinach. It perfectly supports your goals for healthy dinner recipes and quick meal prep.
Benefits:
- Provides a sustained energy boost from its balanced macros, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
- Offers a satisfying, protein-rich meal that supports muscle health.
- It’s a truly family-friendly option that encourages everyone, even picky eaters, to enjoy their vegetables.
- Can be easily adapted for diabetic-friendly meals with specific gnocchi and cream choices, making it versatile for various dietary needs.
Everyday Practical Benefits
This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup helps with convenience, budget, and nutrition all at once. It’s a true workhorse in my kitchen, simplifying mealtime without compromising on taste or quality.
- Saves precious time on busy evenings with its efficient one-pot nature.
- Uses common, affordable ingredients, helping you stretch your grocery budget further.
- Provides a complete, wholesome, and profoundly comforting meal in one single bowl.
- Makes excellent leftovers, simplifying future meal planning and offering a convenient lunch option.
Expert Tips, Variations & Adjustments
Pro Chef Tricks:
- For an extra layer of texture, pan-sear your gnocchi separately in a little butter or olive oil until lightly golden before adding them to the soup.
- Bloom your dried herbs, like thyme and rosemary, in the hot oil with the aromatics for a much deeper, more robust flavor.
- A final swirl of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can genuinely elevate the richness and add a lovely umami note.
Customization for Different Diets or Flavor Preferences:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Increase the vegetable content easily with diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for even more nutrition and color.
- For a touch of smoky depth, stir in a bit of smoked paprika with your other spices.
Allergy Awareness and Safe Swaps:
- For dairy allergies, simply use full-fat coconut milk or a certified dairy-free cream alternative; it still creates a wonderful creaminess.
- Ensure your chicken broth is clearly labeled gluten-free if you have celiac needs, and always opt for gluten-free gnocchi.
Common Questions Answered
Is Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach good for meal prep?
Yes, absolutely! This soup holds up wonderfully, making it perfect for preparing healthy lunches and dinners throughout the week. If you plan to freeze portions, just add the spinach toward the very end of the reheating process for the best texture.
What are the healthiest substitutes for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach?
You can make several healthy swaps. Consider using a lower-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, increase the amount of broth for a lighter base, and choose whole wheat gnocchi. Adding more vegetables like kale or sliced mushrooms also significantly boosts nutrition.
Can I order Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach ingredients online?
Definitely! All the ingredients for this delicious and comforting Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach are widely available through most major online grocery delivery services, making it super easy to get everything you need delivered right to your door.
How can I make my Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach thicker?
To thicken your soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period, allowing some liquid to evaporate naturally. Alternatively, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold broth until smooth, then stir it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I use frozen spinach in Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely beforehand and squeeze out all the excess water. This step is crucial to prevent watering down the rich flavor of your soup.
What kind of chicken is best for this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully and provide lean protein. For ultimate convenience, especially on busy nights, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be shredded and added to the soup toward the end of cooking.
How long does Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach will stay fresh and incredibly delicious in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it excellent for planned leftovers.
Can I make this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach vegetarian?
Yes, you absolutely can! Simply omit the chicken from the recipe and use a flavorful vegetable broth as your base. For extra protein and heartiness, you can easily add a can of cannellini or great northern beans.
Conclusion:
There you have it—a comforting, easy, and incredibly satisfying bowl of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach that’s perfect for any occasion. This is one of those family-friendly recipes that will quickly become a weeknight staple for healthy eating and quick meals. Bookmark this recipe for your next cozy meal and share the warmth with your family! Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest so you can easily find it whenever a craving strikes!
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CREAMY CHICKEN GNOCCHI SOUP RECIPE WITH SPINACH
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Craving comfort food that’s quick and nourishing? This creamy, hearty Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach is perfect for busy parents and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, for sautéing and building flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion (about 1.5 cups/225g), diced, for aromatic base
- 3 cloves garlic (about 1 tablespoon/15g), minced, for depth of flavor
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces, for lean protein
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, for earthy notes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, for fragrant aroma
- 6 cups (1.4L) chicken broth, low sodium preferred, as the flavor foundation
- 16 oz (450g) potato gnocchi, for that comforting, pillowy bite
- 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, for a boost of nutrients and vibrant color
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, for luxurious creaminess and richness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook gently until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook until lightly golden on all sides and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as it cooks.
- Deglaze and Build Flavor: Pour in about 1/2 cup (120ml) of the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this adds incredible flavor to your soup! Stir in the dried thyme and dried rosemary.
- Simmer: Add the remaining chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the chicken is completely cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Gnocchi and Spinach: Increase the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package directions until tender, usually just 2-3 minutes. Then, fold in the fresh spinach a handful at a time until it just wilts into the soup.
- Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through gently for a minute or two. Be careful not to boil the soup once the cream is added. Taste the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe with Spinach and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs) as needed to your preference.
Notes
Nutrition Estimate: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data and may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, simply use chickpea or other certified gluten-free gnocchi. If you’re avoiding dairy, try full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative in place of heavy cream. To boost the protein content, you could add a can of rinsed cannellini beans or extra chicken. And if you’re not a fan of spinach, try swapping it for chopped kale for a slightly different texture and nutrient profile.
Optional Shortcuts: For those super busy evenings, you can easily use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred the meat and add it during step 5 with the gnocchi and spinach. Pre-chopped mirepoix (a mix of onions, carrots, and celery) from the grocery store can also save you a lot of prep time on the aromatics.
Troubleshooting: If your soup turns out too thin for your liking, simply simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate. If it’s too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. If the flavor seems a little bland, my trick is always a pinch more salt, pepper, or a dash of your favorite dried herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg