Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This hearty Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness inspired by classic Italian flavors. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Easy to prepare, this one-pot wonder is ready in under an hour and makes your kitchen smell divine.

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 pound cooked, cubed chicken breast
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (16-ounce) package mini potato gnocchi
• 1 (6-ounce) bag baby spinach leaves
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, celery, carrots, and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Simmer Chicken and Broth: Stir in the cubed chicken and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and let it cook until they float to the surface, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 3 minutes.
5. Thicken the Soup (optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir it into the soup.
6. Finish with Cream: Stir in the half-and-half and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
7. Season and Serve: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

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Tips for Success

• Prep Ingredients First: Chop all vegetables and cube the chicken before starting for a smooth cooking process.
• Choose Quality Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi will yield the best texture, but frozen or shelf-stable versions work in a pinch.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute the half-and-half with milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lower-calorie option.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or Parmesan cheese to the broth for an extra layer of richness.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid splitting the cream.

This delicious soup is as comforting as a warm hug and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Enjoy!