As I stood in my cozy kitchen one chilly evening, the aroma of simmering vegetables and savory broth filled the air. It was the perfect occasion for a warm bowl of Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
This dish is not just comfort food; it’s nutritious and comforting in equal measure. If you’ve never tried making gnocchi soup at home, this step-by-step guide will help you whip up something delightful.
What is Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
In simple terms, Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender chicken, soft potato gnocchi, and a medley of fresh vegetables all simmered in a rich broth. This soup is creamy and hearty without being heavy, making it perfect for a dinner that feels special but doesn’t weigh you down.
Plus, you can prepare it quickly, and it’s a hit with both adults and kids. I still recall the first time I made it—it disappeared as fast as I could serve it!
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Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup scores high on my list for several reasons:
1. Quick to Make: In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, it features lean chicken, fresh spinach, and an array of colorful veggies.
3. Comforting and Satisfying: The gnocchi adds an element of heartiness that leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
4. Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Feel free to get creative!
5. Family-Friendly: It’s a meal that even picky eaters enjoy. I can vouch for this—I’ve had both kids and adults ask for seconds!
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this wholesome soup:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for mixing with cornstarch)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 (6-ounce) bag fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat)
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (to add depth of flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped small
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional – for extra thickness)
- 1 (16-ounce) package mini potato gnocchi
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 carrots, shredded or finely grated
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the veggies soften and the onion turns translucent. This step lays the foundation of flavor for the soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme
Next, add minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Give everything a good stir. Let it cook for about a minute until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. A gentle reminder—don’t let the garlic burn!
Step 3: Introduce the Broth
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. I prefer low-sodium options, as they allow for better control over the seasoning at the end. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and enjoy the comforting scents wafting through your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
Once boiling, add the cooked chicken and mini potato gnocchi to the pot. These little pillows of potato goodness will cook quickly, usually needing about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently, letting them sink into the broth.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Time for the magic touch! Lower the heat and stir in the half-and-half cream. This gives the soup a rich texture while keeping it light and healthy. If you like your soup a bit thicker, mix the cornstarch with cold water and add it now.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Season
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and crushed red pepper flakes. They’ll wilt quickly in the warm soup. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust seasoning if required.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, and voilà! You have a steaming bowl of Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to warm your soul. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra touch, though this is entirely optional.
Tips & Tricks
Use Leftover Chicken: Save time by using leftover rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and reduces cooking time.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to toss in any vegetables you need to use up. Zucchini or bell peppers could work perfectly!
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap regular gnocchi for gluten-free options or experiment with spiralized zucchini.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers and refrigerate. The soup is great for lunches.
Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: They’re ready when they float, so keep an eye on them!
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition breakdown per serving:
Calories: Approx. 410
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
These values will vary based on the ingredients used and any variations made.
Can I Store Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Just a heads up, the gnocchi may continue to absorb the liquid, so it might thicken. You can always add a splash of broth or water when reheating, ensuring it stays soupy.
What Can I Serve with Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
Pair this delightful soup with some crusty bread for dipping, or a simple side salad to balance the meal. Try a classic Caesar salad or even a fresh Caprese salad to keep things light and healthy.
If you want to indulge a little more, cheese and herb focaccia are excellent choices to savor alongside this dish.
Variations
Feel like mixing it up? Here are some creative takes on the classic Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:
1. Vegetarian Version
Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas. This version is just as hearty and packed with flavor.
2. Spicy Kick
Add sliced jalapeños or increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. This variation fetches a bold flavor profile.
3. Herb-Infused
Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness at the end of cooking. It’s like a garden in your bowl!
4. Coconut Cream
For a rich twist, swap half-and-half with coconut cream. It gives a unique flavor and creamy texture.
5. Lemon Zest
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The zesty brightness can elevate the dish and balance the creaminess perfectly!
Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cold water mix with cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 6-ounce bag fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle touch of heat
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme for an earthy flavor boost
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 stalks celery chopped small
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional – for thickening
- 1 16-ounce package mini potato gnocchi
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 carrots shredded or finely grated
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the veggies soften and the onion turns translucent. This step lays the foundation of flavor for the soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme
- Next, add minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Give everything a good stir. Let it cook for about a minute until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. A gentle reminder—don’t let the garlic burn!
Step 3: Introduce the Broth
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. I prefer low-sodium options, as they allow for better control over the seasoning at the end. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and enjoy the comforting scents wafting through your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Gnocchi
- Once boiling, add the cooked chicken and mini potato gnocchi to the pot. These little pillows of potato goodness will cook quickly, usually needing about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently, letting them sink into the broth.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
- Time for the magic touch! Lower the heat and stir in the half-and-half cream. This gives the soup a rich texture while keeping it light and healthy. If you like your soup a bit thicker, mix the cornstarch with cold water and add it now.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Season
- Finally, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and crushed red pepper flakes. They’ll wilt quickly in the warm soup. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust seasoning if required.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and voilà! You have a steaming bowl of Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup ready to warm your soul. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra touch, though this is entirely optional.
Notes
- Use Leftover Chicken: Save time by using leftover rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and reduces cooking time.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to toss in any vegetables you need to use up. Zucchini or bell peppers could work perfectly!
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap regular gnocchi for gluten-free options or experiment with spiralized zucchini.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers and refrigerate. The soup is great for lunches.
- Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: They’re ready when they float, so keep an eye on them!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can! Frozen gnocchi can be added directly to the soup without thawing. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
2. How can I thicken the soup without cornstarch?
You can blend a part of the soup and return it to the pot for a creamier consistency. Alternatively, adding a potato and blending it in works wonderfully.
3. Is this soup freezable?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the gnocchi may change. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add them when reheating.
4. What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating.
5. Can I add beans for extra protein?
Absolutely! Cannellini or great northern beans would be fantastic additions that increase protein and fiber content.
Conclusion
As I wrapped up another wonderful dinner featuring Healthy Chicken Gnocchi Soup, I felt accomplished. This dish perfectly marries comfort with health—a fantastic combination that greets your taste buds and your body in the best way possible.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, you can trust that each bowl is packed with love and nourishment.
So why not give it a try? I promise, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds… or thirds!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more