Cozy Italian Chicken Soup

A steaming bowl of Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings the cozy comfort of Olive Garden right into your kitchen, minus the wait and expense of dining out. This creamy, hearty soup combines tender chunks of chicken with pillowy potato gnocchi and fresh vegetables in a velvety broth that warms you from the inside out.

After making this soup countless times, I've found it's even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. My family especially loves dunking crusty bread into the creamy broth - there's never a drop left in their bowls.

Essential Ingredients

• Fresh gnocchi: Look for them in the refrigerated pasta section - they're more tender than shelf-stable varieties.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Gives you control over the saltiness while providing rich flavor.
• Half-and-half: Creates silky smoothness without being too heavy.
• Fresh spinach: Adds color and nutrients; choose bright, crisp leaves.
• Fresh thyme: Brings an earthy note that dried herbs just can't match.

Detailed Cooking Method

Create the flavor base:

Heat olive oil until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Sauté vegetables until onions turn translucent and carrots soften. Let garlic bloom for just 30 seconds to release its oils.

Build the soup:

Pour in broth gradually while stirring to prevent lumps. Add chicken and let it warm through completely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Master the gnocchi timing:

Add them to gently boiling soup. Watch carefully - they're done when they float. Don't overcook or they'll fall apart.

Perfect the finish:

Lower heat before adding half-and-half to prevent curdling. Stir in spinach last to keep its bright color. Let soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The Secret to Silky Texture

Through trial and error, I've discovered that tempering the half-and-half with a little hot broth before adding it to the soup prevents curdling and creates the smoothest texture.

Making It Restaurant-Quality

The key lies in layering flavors - starting with properly sautéed vegetables and finishing with fresh herbs adds depth that makes this soup truly special.

My grandmother always said soup needs time to "marry" its flavors. I've found letting this soup rest for about 5 minutes off heat really brings everything together perfectly.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Keep gnocchi separate if making ahead to prevent them from getting mushy.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a delicious time-saver.
• Finish each bowl with a drizzle of good olive oil.

This soup has become my go-to comfort food on chilly evenings. There's something magical about how it brings everyone to the table, creating those warm moments of connection that make home cooking so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to the soup.

→ How do I store leftover soup?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ What can I substitute for half and half?

Use whole milk for a lighter soup or heavy cream for a richer version.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes! Make it up to 2 days ahead, but reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.

→ What should I serve with it?

Crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a fresh green salad make perfect sides.