Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken. You can either poach or pan-cook the chicken breasts.

  • To poach: In a medium-sized pot, add the chicken breasts and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the pot, allow it to cool slightly, then shred it using two forks.

  • To pan-cook: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme, then cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and shred it using two forks.

Set the shredded chicken aside to add to the soup later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add the red pepper flakes here. Allow the broth to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi

Next, add the gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions (usually around 2-4 minutes until they float to the surface). The gnocchi will absorb some of the broth, thickening the soup and adding a comforting texture.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Once the gnocchi is cooked, pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter option). Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This will give the soup a rich, creamy texture while allowing the gnocchi to soften further.

Step 6: Add the Shredded Chicken and Spinach

Once the cream is fully incorporated, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the soup. You can also use kale if you prefer a heartier green. Continue to simmer the soup for another 3-5 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you like a thicker soup, you can let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Once you’re happy with the flavor and consistency, remove the pot from the heat.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy

Ladle the creamy chicken gnocchi soup into bowls. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving. You can also add some fresh cracked black pepper or a few extra red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

  • Homemade Chicken Stock: If you have homemade chicken stock or broth on hand, it will elevate the flavor of this soup even more. Alternatively, a high-quality low-sodium store-bought broth works well.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer, or you can add a tablespoon of flour mixed with water to thicken the broth.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for additional flavor and texture.
  • Use Frozen Gnocchi: If you can’t find fresh gnocchi, frozen gnocchi works just as well. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package for cooking frozen gnocchi.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comforting meal that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, a creamy broth, and fresh vegetables. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for cozy nights in or when you're craving something hearty and warm. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a special dinner, this soup is sure to impress.

With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy a homemade bowl of creamy chicken gnocchi soup that rivals any restaurant dish. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for the perfect meal!