Introduction
This creamy chicken gnocchi soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days. The combination of tender shredded chicken, savory mirepoix, and pillowy gnocchi creates a satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. With a touch of bacon for added flavor and fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrients, this recipe is easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups mirepoix (chopped onions, celery, and carrots)
1–2 teaspoons dried basil
1–2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
Two 12-ounce cans evaporated milk
Two 1 lb. packages gnocchi (about 4 cups)
6 slices bacon
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
Total Time: 4-5 hours (plus additional cooking time for the soup to thicken)
Yield: 6-8 servings
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering warmth and deliciousness in every bowl. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broth
Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot or slow cooker. Add the mirepoix mixture, which consists of chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sprinkle in the dried basil, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, and salt. Pour in the chicken broth. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. After the cooking time, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
Step 2: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with water until fully dissolved. Add this mixture to the crockpot, along with the two cans of evaporated milk and the gnocchi. Stir the ingredients well, then cover the crockpot again. Continue to cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the soup thickens and the gnocchi become soft.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Spinach
While the soup is thickening, take the bacon and cut it into small pieces. Fry the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until they become crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease. In the same skillet, wipe out most of the bacon grease, leaving a small amount for flavor. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for one minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh baby spinach and stir until it wilts. Remove from heat and add the crispy bacon and wilted spinach to the crockpot. Stir to combine everything.
Step 4: Final Adjustments
Assess the thickness of the soup. If necessary, add extra liquid, approximately one cup of water, especially if the soup has started to thicken significantly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Ingredient Tips
Use fresh herbs if available for more flavor, and feel free to adjust the amount of seasonings to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows flavors to develop gradually, making the chicken tender and infusing the broth with the taste of mirepoix and seasonings. Use a crockpot or slow cooker and monitor cooking times to ensure optimal results.
Shredding Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the crockpot for a seamless integration into the soup. This technique helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Thickening Soup
Adding a cornstarch mixture combined with evaporated milk helps achieve a creamy consistency. Stirring ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.
Crispy Bacon
Frying bacon until crispy adds texture and flavor to the dish. Be sure to drain excess grease to avoid making the soup too oily.
Sautéing Garlic and Spinach
Sautéing garlic enhances its flavor before adding it to the soup. Cooking spinach just until wilted preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
Adjusting Consistency
If the soup thickens too much, add additional liquid to reach your desired consistency. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain flavor balance.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used in this recipe. However, cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with half and half or a combination of milk and cream for a similar creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is not inherently gluten-free due to the gnocchi. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi or substitute with another gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
This hearty chicken gnocchi soup combines comforting flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. The blend of chicken, gnocchi, and spinach in a creamy broth creates a satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out. With the ease of a slow cooker, this recipe is both simple and delicious, allowing for effortless preparation. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!
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