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Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy Italian-Inspired Delight

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy broth. This Italian-inspired soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a hearty meal. With its delightful textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced carrot
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 2 cups half-and-half (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley

Cooking Method

Preparation:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Incorporate Chicken and Seasonings: Add the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes) until they float to the surface.
6. Finish with Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Serving:

1. Plate and Garnish: Serve hot with optional toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh parsley for color.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour; if you like it thinner, add more broth or cream.
• Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking Vegetables Enough: Ensure vegetables are tender before adding liquids; this builds flavor.
• Overcooking Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly; avoid overcooking them to prevent a mushy texture.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For an Italian touch, serve it alongside garlic breadsticks or bruschetta.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and iron; it contributes to overall health.
• Gnocchi: Made from potatoes, providing carbohydrates for energy while being gluten-free when made from rice flour.

Why People Love This Dish

People adore Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup for its comforting qualities and rich flavors. It’s a perfect blend of creamy goodness and hearty ingredients that warms you from the inside out. The ease of preparation makes it an appealing option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Origin of the Recipe

Gnocchi has roots in Italian cuisine dating back centuries, traditionally made from potatoes or flour mixed with eggs. The combination of gnocchi with creamy soups has become popularized in modern American cuisine, especially in restaurants like Olive Garden where it gained widespread recognition.

Interesting Facts

• Gnocchi can be made with various ingredients; sweet potatoes or ricotta can be used as alternatives to traditional potato gnocchi.
• The word “gnocchi” comes from the Italian word “nocca,” meaning knuckle—referring to their shape!

Summarized Recipe

1. Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic in olive oil.
2. Sprinkle flour over veggies; cook briefly.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and half-and-half; bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper; simmer.
5. Add gnocchi; cook until they float.
6. Stir in spinach until wilted; serve hot with optional toppings.

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table! Enjoy this cozy dish that encapsulates comfort food at its finest!

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