chicken gnocchi soup

Once upon a time, in a cozy Italian trattoria nestled in the heart of a bustling city, there lived a passionate chef named Luca. Luca’s culinary creations were renowned far and wide, but his most beloved dish was his Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Inspired by his grandmother’s hearty recipes and the comforting embrace of his childhood home, Luca poured his heart and soul into every pot of soup he made.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in dried thyme and dried oregano, then pour in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add shredded chicken and potato gnocchi to the pot. Simmer until gnocchi are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted, then pour in half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Chicken Broth: Rich in nutrients like collagen, chicken broth supports gut health and may help boost immunity.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach promotes healthy vision, immunity, and bone health.
• Gnocchi: Made from potatoes, gnocchi provides energy-boosting carbohydrates and dietary fiber.
• Half-and-Half: Adds creaminess to the soup while providing calcium for strong bones.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• Garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Common Variations:

• Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute cooked turkey or ham for the chicken for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Add diced potatoes or white beans for extra heartiness.

Healthy Living Tip: Incorporating homemade soups like Chicken Gnocchi Soup into your weekly meal rotation is a delicious way to increase your intake of vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Homemade soups are often lower in sodium and preservatives compared to store-bought varieties, making them a healthier option for nourishing your body and supporting overall well-being.