There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a hug on a chilly day, don’t you think? My Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup has quickly become a family favorite, and for good reason! It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic and chicken wafting through the kitchen had everyone gathering around the table before it was even ready. The pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach dance together in a rich broth, creating a heartwarming dish that instantly lifts spirits. Plus, baking it until golden and bubbly adds that irresistible touch of coziness. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this soup on repeat. It’s a dish that brings us all together, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delightful Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to gather everything before you start; it makes the cooking process so much smoother! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Now, let’s dive into making this fabulous Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup. I promise you, it’s easier than it sounds! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a creamy, cozy bowl in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your soup gets that lovely golden finish when we bake it.
In a large pot, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. I can already smell the goodness!
Next, toss in the shredded chicken. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, just enough for it to warm up and soak in those onion and garlic flavors. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Once it’s bubbling away, add the gnocchi. You’ll want to cook them until they float to the top, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This little trick shows you that they’re perfectly done!
Now, stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and Italian seasoning. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. I always find this part to be the most satisfying—watching everything come together!
After that, carefully transfer the soup into a suitable baking dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously on top—it’s what makes it all the more delicious!
Pop your dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! The smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone flocking to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy soup to soothe the soul on a chilly evening.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach creates a flavor profile that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- Baking Brilliance: Baking the soup gives it that golden, bubbly top that makes every bite irresistible.
- Family Favorite: It’s a dish that brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup turns out absolutely perfect, here are my top tips:
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi: They only need a few minutes to float, so keep an eye on them! Overcooked gnocchi can turn mushy.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and good-quality chicken broth make a huge difference in flavor. Trust me, it’s worth it!
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is fantastic, mixing in some mozzarella can add an extra layer of gooey goodness.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to nailing this comforting soup!
Variations
One of the best things about my Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes! Here are a few fun variations to consider:
- Veggie Boost: Add in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. You could even throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor!
- Protein Swap: If you’re looking to shake things up, try using shredded rotisserie turkey or even cooked sausage instead of chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Just toss them in right before baking!
- Gnocchi Alternatives: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap gnocchi for small pasta shapes like shells or orzo. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect bowl of comfort!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to comfort food, my Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup strikes a delightful balance between flavor and nourishment. Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
These values are estimates, of course, but they give you a good idea of the hearty goodness packed into every bowl!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup (which is likely because it’s so good!), here’s how to store and reheat it properly. Allow the soup to cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before sealing it up!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. Enjoy your cozy bowl once more!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup? I’ve got you covered with some common queries that pop up, along with my answers!
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well. You can add them directly to the soup without thawing, and they’ll cook perfectly as the soup simmers.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
You bet! The creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a hit with kids. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies too!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this soup?
A nice crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs wonderfully with my Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It makes for a complete meal!
Feel free to ask more questions or share your own tips after trying it!
Print
Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 5 Comforting Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and creamy baked chicken gnocchi soup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
- Add the shredded chicken and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top.
- Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the soup to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change after thawing.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Baked Chicken Gnocchi Soup, Chicken Soup, Gnocchi Soup