There is something irresistibly cozy and comforting about a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe that warms you from the inside out. This soup blends tender chunks of chicken with pillowy gnocchi, fresh spinach, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes all enveloped in a rich, velvety creamy broth. Whether you’re looking for an impressive dinner on a chilly evening or a hearty lunch to lift your spirits, this soup offers a delightful melody of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether it’s the soul-warming flavor of the chicken broth or the fresh brightness from the herbs, making it easy to gather everything without fuss yet thrilling your taste buds with every bite.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth and fruity base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Butter: Brings a rich creaminess and helps mellow the onion and celery flavors.
- Medium onion (chopped): Provides a natural sweetness that builds the soup’s flavor foundation.
- Celery sticks (chopped): Offers a subtle crunch and an herby undertone to complement the creamy broth.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses bold aroma and depth to brighten the overall soup.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Deliver sweet and tangy bursts that carry the Tuscan spirit.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that immediately transports you to rustic Italy.
- Chicken broth: The savory, hearty liquid that forms the soul of the soup.
- Water: Balances the broth’s intensity and ensures the perfect consistency.
- Cooked chicken: Tender bites add protein and satisfy that comforting, home-cooked feel.
- Potato gnocchi (uncooked): Light and pillowy dumplings that soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Heavy or whipping cream: Makes the soup irresistibly velvety and luscious.
- Fresh baby spinach: A nutrient-packed green that adds freshness and color.
- Fresh basil (torn or sliced): Lifts the soup with aromatic, sweet herbal notes right before serving.
- Salt & pepper: To perfectly season and balance every ingredient.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes. This step magically softens the veggies and creates a fragrant base that will carry all the delicious flavors you’re building in the soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Italian Seasoning
Next, stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for around a minute; this gentle toasting releases the herbs’ aroma and allows the tomatoes to mingle with the garlic, layering the flavor complexity that makes this soup stand out.
Step 3: Combine Broth, Chicken, and Gnocchi
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the cooked chicken and uncooked potato gnocchi. Bring everything up to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the gnocchi to cook perfectly while the chicken warms through, melding all those vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Finish with Cream, Spinach, and Basil
Now it’s time for the magic touch—the cream and fresh spinach. Stir these into your pot and cook just a few minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully. Finally, fold in the fresh basil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and get ready to serve this creamy, flavorful masterpiece!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To make your soup even more inviting, consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of torn basil leaves. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of indulgence or mild heat if you fancy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or slices of warm crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy broth. Garlic bread or cheesy focaccia also make excellent companions to keep things hearty and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of cream on top or garnish with a few whole basil leaves. A small ramekin of extra Parmesan on the side encourages everyone to customize their bowl exactly how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, giving you a quick and comforting meal ready to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for longer storage, but be aware that potato gnocchi can sometimes change texture after freezing. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Add a little water or broth if the soup thickens too much. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and add freshly cooked gnocchi as mentioned.
FAQs
Can I use different types of gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! While potato gnocchi is traditional and offers a soft, pillowy texture, you can try sweet potato gnocchi or even cauliflower gnocchi for a different twist. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken or replace it with hearty mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein. The rest of the ingredients remain deliciously the same.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Simply sauté the vegetables as directed, then add everything except the cream and spinach to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream and spinach in the last 15 minutes to keep them fresh and vibrant.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes works best?
Use the ones packed in oil for richer flavor and softer texture. If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the soup to rehydrate and mellow their intensity.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup won’t be as rich and creamy. Adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch can help thicken it up if you prefer a lighter creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe feels like passing along a warm culinary hug. It’s easy to love and remarkably simple to make, yet delivers all the depth and heartiness you want in a comforting bowl. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it because once it’s on your table, it’s sure to become a staple everyone asks for. Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, fresh baby spinach, and fragrant sun-dried tomatoes in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy family meal, it combines Italian-inspired flavors with hearty ingredients for a satisfying soup experience.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Soup Base & Protein
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
Main Components
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2–3 cups packed fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil, torn or sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the olive oil, butter, chopped onion, and celery to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about one minute, stirring frequently to awaken the flavors without burning the garlic.
- Combine Liquids and Protein: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the cooked chicken and uncooked gnocchi. Turn the heat to high to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a gentle simmer and allow to cook for 10 minutes so the gnocchi cooks through and the flavors meld.
- Add Cream and Greens: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and baby spinach. Cook for a few more minutes until the spinach wilts completely. Remove from heat, incorporate the fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil or rehydrate dry ones before adding.
- Rotisserie chicken is recommended for tender, flavorful protein but any cooked chicken will work.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream for a lower-fat option.
- Adjust seasoning gradually; salt and pepper can be added to taste at the end.
- This soup is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
