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This creamy chicken gnocchi soup started as my attempt to recreate that cozy restaurant favorite at home. Now it's become a cherished recipe in my kitchen bringing comfort with every spoonful. The pillowy gnocchi tender chicken and fresh vegetables swimming in that velvety broth create pure magic in a bowl.
Why You'll Love Making This
Every time I serve this soup my family falls silent those first few spoonfuls say everything. The way the creamy broth coats each tender dumpling while fresh spinach adds beautiful color. It's become our favorite way to warm up on chilly evenings.
All About Gnocchi
Those lovely little potato dumplings might look fancy but they're really quite simple. I find mine in the pasta aisle sometimes in the refrigerated section. They cook up quickly turning pillowy soft in the soup. Once you try them you'll understand why they're so special.
Your Shopping List
- Chicken: Fresh or leftover both work beautifully
- Gnocchi: These little dumplings are pure comfort
- Fresh Veggies: Onions celery carrots and spinach for color
- Chicken Broth: The heart of our soup
- Half and Half: Makes everything creamy dreamy
- Butter and Flour: Creates that perfect thickness
- Seasonings: Fresh thyme and a pinch of mustard powder
- Red Pepper: Just a touch for warmth
Let's Make Soup
- Start With Vegetables:
- Let them soften and sweeten in butter
- Create the Base:
- A quick flour coating then slowly add broth and cream
- Cook Your Chicken:
- Let it simmer gently in the soup
- Gnocchi Time:
- Watch them float to tell you they're ready
- Final Touch:
- Fresh spinach wilts right at the end
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Slow Cooker Magic
Sometimes I let my slow cooker do the work. Everything except the cream gnocchi and spinach goes in first thing in the morning. Coming home to that aroma is pure happiness. Just finish with the remaining ingredients and dinner's ready.
My Best Tips
Gentle simmering keeps your chicken tender. I always add gnocchi right before serving they cook so quickly. Sometimes I use Italian sausage instead of chicken for a different twist. That tiny bit of mustard powder really makes the flavors sing.
Perfect Pairings
We love dunking crusty bread into this soup. A simple green salad on the side makes it complete. My family fights over the last garlic breadstick to swipe through that creamy broth.
Keeping It Fresh
This soup stays beautiful for several days in the fridge. If you're planning to freeze some leave out the gnocchi and add them fresh when reheating. The flavors actually get better overnight.
Warming It Up
Low and slow is the way to go when reheating. Keep stirring gently and add a splash of broth if needed. The cream stays smooth and silky this way.
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Everyone Can Enjoy
My gluten free friends love this with special gnocchi and alternative flour for thickening. The creamy comfort stays exactly the same making everyone happy at the table.
Make It Your Own
- Mushrooms add such wonderful depth
- Hearty kale works beautifully too
- A handful of parmesan makes it extra special
- Red pepper flakes wake everything up
Gnocchi Know-How
Fresh gnocchi are wonderful but the vacuum sealed ones in the pasta aisle work perfectly too. They'll tell you they're done when they float to the top just like little dumplings should.
Dairy Free Dreams
For my dairy free friends I use coconut cream and olive oil instead of dairy. The soup stays rich and creamy while being completely inclusive. Everyone deserves comfort food.
Plan Ahead Power
This soup shines in meal prep. I portion it out for easy lunches and quick dinners. Each serving seems to get more flavorful as the days go by.
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Kid Friendly Fun
My little ones love when I blend the base smooth before adding gnocchi. They call them soup pillows and always ask for extra. Some crunchy crackers for dipping make it even more fun.
Pure Comfort
Something about this soup brings people together. Maybe it's the cozy aroma or the way each spoonful feels like a warm hug. It's become our favorite way to show love through food.
Perfect for Company
This soup never fails to impress guests. I prep everything early then just finish it when friends arrive. The aromas welcome everyone into the kitchen where the best conversations happen.
Veggie Version
Skip the chicken add extra vegetables and use vegetable broth for a beautiful meatless meal. The gnocchi keep it satisfying and hearty. Sometimes I add chickpeas for extra protein.
Feeding a Crowd
Whether I'm doubling the recipe for a gathering or making a small batch for two this soup adapts beautifully. It's my go to recipe when comfort and care are needed bringing warmth to any occasion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use leftover chicken?
- Yes, you can use 2 cups of pre-cooked diced chicken. Add it when the gnocchi goes in since it just needs to heat through.
- → What's half-and-half?
- Half-and-half is a dairy product that's half whole milk and half heavy cream. If unavailable, mix equal parts milk and heavy cream.
- → Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, the recipe includes Crock Pot instructions. The texture will be slightly thinner but still delicious.
- → Where do I find gnocchi?
- Look for packaged gnocchi in the pasta aisle of your grocery store. It's usually near the dried pasta or in the Italian foods section.
- → Can I substitute the spinach?
- Kale or Swiss chard work well as substitutes for spinach. Just cook until the greens are wilted and tender.