# Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup – A Comfort Dish for All Seasons
## Introduction
Craving a bowl of soup that is creamy, heavenly, and fills your stomach? Looking for something which gives you comfort on a chilly night or a lazy afternoon? Look no further, as we have got you covered with a classic Italian soup – Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup.
## Why Make This Recipe
This is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, indulgent, and hearty. Chicken as a protein, and Gnocchi – a type of potato dumplings, makes the soup fulfilling. A broth accentuated with fresh vegetables and dollops of cream enriches the soup with an irresistible texture and taste.
## How to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Let’s dive into the details.
### Ingredients :
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
### Directions :
1. Sauté the diced chicken in a large pot with olive oil until it turns brown. Set it aside for later use.
2. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to increase the flavor.
4. Add the cooked chicken and gnocchi to the simmering broth. Let it simmer until the gnocchi cooks completely.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Let the soup simmer until the spinach wilts.
6. Lastly, ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.
## How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
This soup is a complete meal in itself and can be served hot with fresh bread or cheese sticks.
## How to Store Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
The soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a saucepan on the stove over low heat when ready to serve.
## Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
– Do not overcook the gnocchi, as it will become mushy.
– If you aim for a thicker soup, you can make a roux from butter and flour and add it to the broth.
– Fresh vegetables are always a better option. However, you can also use frozen vegetables.
## Variations
For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu. You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a vegan option.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this soup?**
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works great for this recipe.
2. **Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
Yes, the soup can be easily made in a slow cooker. However adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. **What can I use instead of spinach?**
You can use kale or other leafy greens in place of spinach.
We hope you enjoy this warming and comforting Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup as much as we do! Bon Appetit!