Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for any occasion. This delightful soup combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian flavors. It’s a versatile dish that works well for cozy family dinners or as a soothing meal when you’re feeling under the weather.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation – With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful – The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a depth of flavor that warms the soul.
• Nutrient-Packed – Loaded with vegetables like carrots and spinach, this soup offers both comfort and nourishment.
• Versatile Ingredients – Use leftover chicken or adjust the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge for a customizable meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers – This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Essential for sautéing ingredients evenly while allowing enough space to stir without spills.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables efficiently.
• Stirring spoon – A good-quality spoon helps mix ingredients thoroughly to blend all those wonderful flavors seamlessly.

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 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)

Seasonings

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

Sauce Components

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

Broth Base

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

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 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 Flavors

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 about 1 minute to develop flavors.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

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

Step 6: Final Ingredients

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for an added 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 all about enhancing its comforting flavors. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and toppings that elevate the experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil Leaves – A few whole basil leaves can enhance the Italian flavor profile.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Sourdough Loaf – The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the soup nicely.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and a tangy dressing that balances the richness of the soup.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs beautifully.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup comes down to attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately – For optimal texture, cook gnocchi separately before adding it to the soup.
• Let It Sit – Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delightful side dishes. They add variety and enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible pairing.
2. Italian Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cheese, and cured meats offers a nice contrast in flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side with great texture.
4. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil gives a fresh bite alongside the warm soup.
5. Creamy Polenta – A bowl of creamy polenta serves as a comforting base that complements the soup’s flavors.
6. Crispy Kale Chips – Lightly salted kale chips offer a crunchy alternative that’s both healthy and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when preparing a comforting dish like Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to soften your veggies before adding liquids.
• Not reserving sun dried tomato oil: Using all the oil can make your soup greasy. Reserve some oil to enhance flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Using low-quality chicken broth: A bland broth leads to a tasteless soup. Opt for high-quality or homemade chicken broth for the best results.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Leaving gnocchi in too long can turn them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking and watch carefully.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in taste, so don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings accordingly during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The soup is best used within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it with a lid or wrap. Heat on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it’s cooked before adding it to the soup.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Yes! Fresh gnocchi may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly while you add them to the soup.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, replace evaporated milk with coconut milk or any plant-based milk of your choice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.

How spicy is this Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

This recipe is mild but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat!

Final Thoughts

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices as desired. We encourage you to try making this delicious soup at home; it’s sure to become a family favorite!