Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Indulge in the cozy comforts of winter with our Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This delightful dish is perfect for chilly evenings, combining the heartiness of chicken and gnocchi with the bright, refreshing zest of lemon. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or a comforting lunch. The creamy base makes this soup rich and satisfying, ensuring every spoonful warms your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of lemon and chicken creates a deliciously vibrant taste that lifts the spirit during winter months.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this soup a go-to comfort food for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and fun gnocchi texture, kids will love every bite!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Allows for even cooking and ample space for all ingredients without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while helping to mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 lbs. organic chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced thin
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Sea salt + black pepper, to taste

For the Gnocchi

• 1 (16 oz.) package potato gnocchi, homemade or store-bought (I like to use Delallo foods)

For Flavoring

• 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp sea salt

For Thickening

• 4 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
• 5 cups organic chicken stock/broth

For Creaminess

• 1 lemon, freshly-squeezed
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups organic heavy cream

For Vegetables

• 2 cups organic kale, de-stemmed + chopped

For Garnish

• 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt and black pepper. Sear them in the pot until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the chicken is browned, add minced garlic and thyme sprigs. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create a Base

Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Incorporate Gnocchi and Cream

Bring the mixture to a simmer before adding the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions (usually about 2–3 minutes). Then stir in heavy cream along with freshly-squeezed lemon juice and zest.

Step 5: Finish with Kale and Cheese

Add the chopped kale and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted. Finally, stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted.

This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is now ready to serve! Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or on its own as a satisfying meal.

How to Serve Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement this hearty soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Thyme: Sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves on top for an aromatic touch.
• Chopped Parsley: Add a pop of color and freshness with finely chopped parsley.

Accompany with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread as a flavorful side to enhance the meal’s richness.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.

Serve with Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Top each bowl with fresh Parmesan shavings for extra flavor.
• Cheese Toasts: Melted cheese on toasted bread can add a delightful crunch.

How to Perfect Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring the right texture. Follow these tips to make your soup even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken, vegetables, and herbs to boost flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: Modify the amount of heavy cream based on your desired richness; less cream will give you a lighter soup.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the soup while cooking to adjust seasoning and ensure balanced flavors.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your creamy soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Season broccoli florets with garlic and roast until tender, adding a nutritious side.
2. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs complements the soup without overpowering it.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or lentils offer a hearty side that pairs well.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve warm dip alongside tortilla chips for a creamy appetizer that matches the soup’s richness.
6. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potato fries adds an interesting twist alongside the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some pitfalls to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong type of chicken: Always choose organic chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen or pre-cooked options, which can alter the soup’s consistency.

• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, usually within a few minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain fluffy and pillowy instead of becoming mushy.

• Neglecting seasoning: Proper seasoning is key. Always taste your soup as you cook, adding sea salt and black pepper gradually to achieve a balanced flavor.

• Skipping lemon zest: The zest adds brightness that elevates the dish. Make sure to include it for that refreshing citrus note that complements the creamy base.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and thyme enhance flavor significantly. Dried herbs or garlic powder won’t provide the same depth of taste.

• Ignoring kale: Kale not only adds nutrition but also texture. Don’t skip this ingredient; it contributes to the soup’s overall heartiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can easily swap out heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream alternative while still enjoying your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works just as well as homemade, saving you time without sacrificing flavor for your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize your soup by adding vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color. These additions will complement your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup beautifully.

How can I adjust the thickness of my soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more flour when making the roux or reduce the amount of chicken stock used. This way, you can achieve your desired consistency in your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is family-friendly with its creamy base and comforting flavors that kids typically enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for cozy winter evenings. Its rich flavors combined with wholesome ingredients make it a versatile option that you can easily customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth on chilly days!