Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly days. This Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy and savory broth infused with classic Italian flavors. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a must-try for soup lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this comforting soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning creates a rich flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is not only delicious but also good for you.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute different proteins to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as they provide even heat distribution and ample space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping vegetables while keeping your kitchen tidy.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, making your prep faster and easier.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

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 Final Touches

• 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 vegetables start to soften (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Create the Base

Stir in the tomato paste, chicken base, and flour until well combined. Cook while stirring for 1 minute to cook off some raw flour taste.

Step 4: Incorporate 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 It Down

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

Step 6: Finish with Chicken and Gnocchi

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 Hot

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy your delicious bowl of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate the dish and enhance its flavors. Here are some creative serving ideas to consider.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve a loaf of freshly baked crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaking up all the deliciousness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl of soup with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair the soup with a light, crisp salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi soup beautifully.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer grated parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on top according to their taste preference, adding a savory touch.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

To ensure your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth will significantly impact the flavor of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.

• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For a firmer texture, consider cooking gnocchi separately and adding it just before serving instead of simmering in the soup.

• Add Spinach Last: To keep spinach vibrant and nutrient-rich, add it near the end of cooking rather than letting it overcook in the broth.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that delicious broth.

2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds depth and nutrition to your meal.

4. Cheesy Breadsticks: These soft, cheesy breadsticks are delightful for dipping into your creamy soup.

5. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa complement the flavors of Italian cuisine well.

7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in Italian dressing is an excellent make-ahead option that pairs well with warm soup.

8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a delightful appetizer before diving into your hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step – Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take time to soften your onions, carrots, and celery before adding other ingredients.
• Neglecting the broth quality – Using low-quality chicken broth will affect the soup’s taste. Opt for a good quality broth or homemade stock for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the gnocchi – Letting the gnocchi cook too long can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and monitor their doneness closely.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Every ingredient varies in flavor intensity. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper as needed.
• Rushing the simmer – Skipping the simmer time can prevent flavors from melding together. Allow your soup to simmer as directed for a more harmonious taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that gnocchi may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.

What is Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian flavors.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for gnocchi?

If you can’t find gnocchi, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice as an alternative.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, or use different herbs to tailor the flavors to your liking!

Final Thoughts

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different veggies or proteins based on your preference. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion—give it a try!