Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. This dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 45 minutes.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a rich flavor that warms your soul.
• Versatile Meal: This soup is great on its own but can also be served with crusty bread or salad for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this recipe offers a nutritious twist on comfort food.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup will delight everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without sticking.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

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

For Thickening and Flavor

• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 Tbsp. chicken base
• 2 ½ Tbsp flour

For the Broth and Creaminess

• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 – 12 oz can evaporated milk

For Protein and Greens

• 2 cups heaping cooked chicken (- shredded or chopped)
• 3-4 oz. baby spinach

For the Gnocchi

• 1 pound shelf stable gnocchi

For Serving

• 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. sun dried tomato oil until hot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies start to soften (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the sun dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until combined. Cook while stirring for 1 minute to create a roux-like mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring to a simmer and partially cover the pot with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi to the pot. Cook over medium-low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your flavorful Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Serving it creatively can enhance your dining experience, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works wonderfully to soak up the creamy broth.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Serve the soup on a bed of fresh spinach for an added nutrient boost. The spinach will wilt slightly and add a vibrant green color to your dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of flavor and makes for an appealing presentation.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Don’t forget to sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It adds richness and complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

To make your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup even better, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or canned options.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately – For best texture, cook gnocchi separately according to package instructions before adding it to the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste your soup before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. The soup can be kept in the fridge for up to three days.
• Reheat Gently – When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delicious side dishes:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrition and color to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter – A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses offers variety alongside the soup.
6. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta serves as a light appetizer that complements the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Take the time to soften them first for enhanced flavor.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold chicken broth can lower the cooking temperature. Always ensure your broth is at least room temperature before adding it to the pot.
• Overcooking gnocchi: If gnocchi is cooked too long, it can become mushy. Add it towards the end of the cooking process and simmer just until tender.
• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Tastes vary, and you may need to adjust salt and pepper after cooking. Always taste before serving and adjust as necessary.
• Not using enough liquid: A thick soup may not have enough broth. Ensure you use all 5 cups of chicken broth for a balanced consistency.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients, especially chicken or broth, can impact flavor. Choose high-quality products for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of chicken should I use in this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

You can use any cooked chicken like rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken. Shredded or chopped works best.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead.

How do I store leftovers of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi offers a different texture and taste; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I customize this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or corn. You can also change up seasonings based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that packs tons of flavor and heartiness into each bowl. Its versatility allows for various ingredient substitutions, making it easy to tailor this recipe to your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal during colder months, give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!