Cold nights call for something warm and comforting, and this Creamy Chicken and Herb Gnocchi Soup hits the spot. It's like a hug in a bowl, packed with hearty flavors and a creamy texture that you won't be able to resist.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts form the hearty, protein-rich base of the soup. Olive oil is used for sautéing, giving a rich, subtle flavor. The onion, garlic, carrot, and celery create a classic mirepoix that builds the soup's foundational flavor. Chicken broth is the main liquid, providing depth and savory notes. Heavy cream adds the signature creaminess that makes this soup so comforting. Potato gnocchi acts as the starchy element, making the soup more filling. Frozen peas introduce sweetness and a pop of color. Fresh parsley and thyme infuse the soup with herbal freshness. Lastly, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese provides a salty, umami finish.
This soup pairs beautifully with a warm, crusty baguette or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. For a bit of indulgence, serve with a slice of garlic bread on the side.
Start by heating up your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté these until they’re softened and the onion is translucent, which should take about five minutes.
Next, add your chicken breasts to the pot. Cook them on all sides until they're nicely browned — about eight minutes should do. Once browned, pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for around 15 minutes, letting the chicken cook through.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Once shredded, return it to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and bring everything back to a gentle simmer.
Add the gnocchi and peas to the pot. You'll know the gnocchi is done when it floats to the top, which usually takes about three minutes. Finally, stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and heated through.
Serve your soup hot, and don't forget to garnish it with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Enjoy!