Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth. Perfect for cold winter nights or casual family dinners, this soup is rich in flavors and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this soup can be made quickly.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A must-have for even heat distribution when simmering your soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup has tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun dried tomatoes, spinach, in a creamy/savory broth infused with 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)
• 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 Finish

• 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 the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 Tbsp. of reserved sun-dried tomato oil until hot.
1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
2. Sauté until the veggies start to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Once the vegetables are softened:
1. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Flour

Add depth to your soup:
1. Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until well combined.
2. Cook while stirring for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Build your flavorful broth:
1. Pour in the chicken broth while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
2. Stir until everything is combined.
3. Bring to a simmer; partially cover with a lid and reduce heat to low; let simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Bring your soup together:
1. Add shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi into the pot.
2. Cook over medium-low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until gnocchi is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Enjoy your delicious creation:
Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced by a few thoughtful touches. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside a loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping, adding texture and heartiness to each bite.

Add a Side Salad

• A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Top with Grated Parmesan Cheese

• While serving, sprinkle extra grated parmesan cheese on top for added richness and flavor.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes for an elegant presentation, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth can significantly enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi towards the end of cooking to keep them tender and avoid mushiness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it’s flavorful.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
• Make it Ahead: The flavors deepen when made ahead. Consider making it a day prior for even better results.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies provides a hearty balance to the meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil make for a flavorful appetizer.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon brings brightness to the table.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese are an inviting finger food option.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables adds nutrition and complements the soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables properly can lead to a less flavorful broth. Make sure to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they soften before adding other ingredients.
• Using regular pasta instead of gnocchi: Substituting gnocchi with regular pasta can change the soup’s texture and taste. Stick with shelf-stable gnocchi for that perfect pillowy bite.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Each ingredient adds unique flavors. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for a well-balanced dish.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can wilt it beyond recognition. Stir it in just before serving for a fresh touch and vibrant color.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can lead to spoilage or affect flavor. Follow proper refrigeration and reheating instructions to keep your soup delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or homemade broths if you prefer a different flavor profile without compromising on taste.

Can I make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well! You can prepare it a day in advance; just store it properly in the refrigerator.

How do I customize Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use different proteins like turkey or beef for variety!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and stays delicious over several days.

Final Thoughts

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an ideal comfort food during colder months. Don’t hesitate—try this delightful recipe today!