Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes
Warm up with this rich and hearty Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a velvety garlic-infused broth. It's an ideal dish for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Loaded with tender chicken and hearty gnocchi
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
A Comforting Classic
There's something inherently comforting about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s creamy, hearty, and filled with delicious ingredients. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup takes those comforting qualities to the next level. The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach creates a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul on those chilly nights.
The rich garlic flavor is truly the star of this soup, infusing every bite with a savory essence that lingers on your palate. Garlic has long been celebrated for its health benefits, adding an extra layer of goodness to this already wholesome meal. Plus, the creamy base adds a luxurious touch that elevates it from an ordinary soup to something special.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its versatility for meal prep. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for future meals. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weekdays when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Simply make a large batch and divide it into individual portions. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal. You can also customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any pantry.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to round out your meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the flavor profile, making each bowl even more delightful.
For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick, while a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors. Don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese; it’s the perfect finishing touch that adds depth and richness to the soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Instructions
Sauté the Chicken
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Make the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
Add Gnocchi and Cream
Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the gnocchi are cooked through.
Finish with Spinach
Fold in the fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy soup with a slice of crusty bread!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle health and overall body function. The addition of spinach contributes valuable vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin K, essential for maintaining good health.
Gnocchi, while being a comforting carbohydrate, can also be made with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives, allowing you to customize the dish according to dietary needs. This soup truly offers a well-rounded meal that can help fuel your day.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the soup your unique twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe.
→ How can I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat cream and add more vegetables like carrots or celery.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It's great alongside a simple salad or some garlic bread.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Warm up with this rich and hearty Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Fit & Flavorful Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
Stir in the gnocchi and heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the gnocchi are cooked through.
Fold in the fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g