Introduction
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a beloved dish that captures the essence of comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a creamy broth filled with vegetables. This copycat recipe brings the flavors of Olive Garden right into your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
The soup is not only rich and hearty but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With simple ingredients like celery, carrots, and fresh spinach, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a warm bowl to chase away the chill or a delicious option for family dinner, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and experience the comforting flavors that make it a favorite!
Ingredients:
4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, grated
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large grilled chicken breast, chunked
4-5 cups chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half
1 package potato gnocchi (about 16 oz)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
A few handfuls of fresh spinach
Cornstarch or flour (for thickening)
Instructions:
Sauté Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped celery, onion, grated carrots, and minced garlic.
Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Chicken and Broth:
Stir in the chunked grilled chicken breast.
Pour in 4-5 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Add Cream and Gnocchi:
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and add 2 cups of half-and-half and the potato gnocchi.
Season with thyme, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup back to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Thicken the Soup:
In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch or flour with hot water to create a thick paste.
Slowly add this mixture to the soup, stirring well to combine.
Add Spinach:
After the soup has thickened and everything is well combined, add a few handfuls of fresh spinach.
Stir until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
Method for Storing
Proper storage of Chicken Gnocchi Soup is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how to store this delicious soup effectively:
Cooling:
Before Storage: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the soup from becoming watery.
Storing in the Refrigerator:
Container: Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container.
Duration: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
Preparation: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. However, keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi may change after freezing.
Container: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Duration: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Thawing: If frozen, transfer the soup to the refrigerator to thaw overnight or use the microwave for a quick thaw.
Stovetop Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
Microwave Reheating: Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Tips:
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, do not let the soup boil, as it may cause the gnocchi to become mushy.
Fresh Spinach: If adding fresh spinach during reheating, do so just before serving to keep it vibrant and tender.