Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach Love
If you’re on the hunt for a rich, warm, and nourishing meal, this **Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes** is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, every spoonful delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. This hearty soup balances creaminess and freshness in a way that’s comforting but never heavy — a true crowd-pleaser for any season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy texture alongside tender chicken and gnocchi warms you right to your soul.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of iron to nourish your body.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this soup a no-fuss dinner option.
- Flavor-Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a subtle tang that elevates the entire dish beautifully.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to fit dietary preferences or whatever you have in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe combines simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy broth to the fresh spinach and tender gnocchi, everything plays an important role in crafting the perfect bowl.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Provides lean, juicy protein that holds up well in the soup.
- Gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that add a delightful chewiness to the mix.
- Fresh spinach: Adds vibrancy, nutrients, and mild earthiness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a rich, tangy-sweet flavor that balances the creaminess.
- Onion and garlic: The aromatic base gives depth and warmth to the broth.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: Forms a savory foundation infused with spices.
- Heavy cream or plant-based cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the soup.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Adds gentle creaminess and melty goodness.
- Smoked turkey bacon: Optional, for a subtle smoky hint without overpowering.
- Herbs and seasoning: Fresh thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to round out flavors.
Variations for Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This soup is a wonderfully flexible recipe that welcomes creativity. Feel free to modify ingredients or textures based on your preferences, dietary needs, or simply what’s on hand in your kitchen.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for hearty mushrooms or plant-based protein.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream or almond milk cream alternatives.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Extra Greens: Mix in kale or Swiss chard for boosted nutrition and texture variety.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) with cashew cheese or vegan cheese blends.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, slicing sun-dried tomatoes, and washing the spinach. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set everything close by for quick access.
Step 2: Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon (Optional)
In a large pot, crisp the smoked turkey bacon until golden and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some rendered fat in the pot for flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Toss in the chicken pieces and cook until they’re just opaque on the outside but not fully done inside.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with fresh thyme and bring to a simmer. This allows the chicken to finish cooking and infuse the broth with rich flavor.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Drop the gnocchi into the simmering soup along with sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook until the gnocchi floats to the surface and softens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), stirring gently until the soup turns silky and thickens slightly.
Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning
Toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt just before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and crumble back in the smoked turkey bacon if using for a smoky finish.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Use Fresh Gnocchi: For the best texture, use fresh or store-bought fresh gnocchi rather than frozen ones.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from curdling and keep the chicken tender.
- Add Spinach Last: This keeps the spinach vibrant and prevents it from becoming overly mushy.
- Let It Rest: If time allows, let the soup sit for 10 minutes off the heat before serving to deepen flavors.
- Customize Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream or broth to find your perfect consistency.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Garnishes
Finish each bowl with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to add brightness and a gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crusty artisan bread, garlic knots, or a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the creaminess with crunch and acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or ladle it over a bed of quinoa for an extra hearty twist that turns it into a full meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This soup freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain texture.
Reheating
Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well; just thaw and drain excess water before adding to keep the soup from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based chicken alternatives, dairy-free cream, and vegan cheese substitutes to enjoy a vegan-friendly version.
What can I use in place of gnocchi?
Small pasta shapes, dumplings, or even diced potatoes can replace gnocchi if you want a different texture.
How long does it take to make this soup?
About 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a convenient dinner option on busy nights.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge; just add the spinach fresh when reheating to keep it vibrant.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal after a long day or a dish to impress family and friends, the Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes delivers flavor, comfort, and warmth in every bowl. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a new favorite go-to soup that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!
