Name: Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 1 large onion (diced); 3 large carrots (diced); 2 stalks celery (diced); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp pepper; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 1 Tbsp chicken base; 2 ½ Tbsp flour; 5 cups chicken broth; 1 can evaporated milk; 2 cups heaping cooked chicken (shredded or chopped); 3-4 oz baby spinach; 1 pound shelf-stable gnocchi

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Hearty and comforting, the Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. This soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes all swimming in a creamy broth infused with classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a cozy meal for yourself, this dish shines on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Delight: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and savory broth that warms your soul.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the type of cooked chicken.
Comforting and Hearty: This soup is filling enough to serve as a main course, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen as it sits, making it taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for preparing soups, allowing for even heat distribution as ingredients simmer together.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will need:

For the Soup Base

8 oz jar oil-packed sun dried tomatoes – chopped (reserve 2 Tbsp. of oil)
1 Large onion (diced)
3 Large carrots (diced)
2 stalks celery (diced)
5 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
½ tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp pepper
2 Tbsp tomato paste

For the Broth

1 Tbsp. chicken base
2 ½ Tbsp flour
5 cups chicken broth
1 – 12 oz can evaporated milk

For the Add-Ins

2 cups heaping cooked chicken (- shredded or chopped)
3-4 oz. baby spinach
1 pound shelf stable gnocchi

For Serving

Grated parmesan cheese for serving

How to Make Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 Tbsp. of reserved sun-dried tomato oil until hot. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies start to soften (about 5 minutes).

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Tomato Paste and Flour

Stir in the tomato paste along with chicken base and flour until well combined. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Simmer the Broth

Bring to a simmer and partially cover with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for approximately 15 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Add in the shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, evaporated milk, and gnocchi. Cook over medium-low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious bowl of comfort!

How to Serve Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish.

Bowl Presentation

Use vibrant bowls: Choose colorful bowls to make the soup visually appealing.
Add fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread: A side of crunchy bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.
Offer a salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the soup.

Toppings

Sprinkle cheese: Grated parmesan adds a savory finish.
Drizzle olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and richness.

How to Perfect Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup can elevate your cooking game. Here are some essential tips to ensure great results every time.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutritional value.
Cook gnocchi separately: This prevents them from becoming mushy; add them last to maintain texture.
Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and spices according to preference.
Make it ahead: This soup develops deeper flavors when made in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze for later: Portion out and freeze for a quick meal on busy days, but add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Complement your Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup with these delightful side dishes. Each pairing adds something special to your meal.

Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping into the soup.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies provide a nutritious and flavorful side.
Mixed Green Salad: Light greens tossed with vinaigrette complement the rich soup beautifully.
Italian Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a zesty bite.
Cheesy Herb Scones: These flaky scones are great for soaking up broth while adding cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some to watch out for:

Skipping the sauté: Neglecting to sauté your vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always take the time to soften them first.
Overcooking the gnocchi: If you cook gnocchi for too long, they can become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Choose a good chicken broth for maximum flavor.
Not adjusting seasoning: Sometimes, you might need more salt or spices. Taste your soup before serving and adjust as needed.
Ignoring leftovers: Some people overlook storing leftovers properly. Make sure to follow storage instructions to keep it fresh.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach simmered in a creamy broth.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with diced plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers of Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What should I serve with Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or using alternative proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners!