Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Quick and Easy Recipe

Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further! My Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just what you need. With tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a rich, creamy base, this recipe brings all the flavors of a cozy dinner in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking! You won’t want to miss this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 12 oz potato gnocchi

- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Vegetables and Seasonings

- 1 small onion, finely diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

Creamy Components and Garnishing

- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)

- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

The main ingredients set the stage for this soup. The chicken gives you protein and flavor. Gnocchi adds a soft, pillowy texture. Chicken broth makes the soup rich and savory.

Next, we have the vegetables and seasonings. The diced onion brings sweetness. Garlic adds a nice kick. Carrots and celery bring color and crunch. Together, they form a tasty base for our soup.

Don’t forget the creamy components! Heavy cream or coconut milk makes it rich and smooth. Fresh spinach adds a burst of green and nutrients. Lastly, the parsley is perfect for garnish. It adds a fresh touch to your dish.

When you gather these ingredients, you build a comforting soup. Each one plays a big part in making this Chicken Gnocchi Soup delicious and satisfying. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Instant Pot

- Preheat your Instant Pot and select Sauté mode.

- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.

I start with the Instant Pot in Sauté mode. This helps build flavor right away. The shimmering oil tells me it’s ready for the next step.

Sautéing Aromatics and Vegetables

- Sauté 1 small onion, finely diced, until translucent.

- Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, and 2 celery stalks, diced.

Next, I add the onion. I stir it for about 2-3 minutes. It softens and turns clear. Then, I add the garlic for that rich aroma. After 30 seconds, I toss in the carrots and celery. This mix adds great depth to the soup.

Cooking the Chicken and Soup Base

- Layer 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts over the vegetables.

- Pour in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth and seasonings.

- Secure lid and set to Manual mode for 10 minutes.

Now, I layer the chicken on top of the veggies. I pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and Italian seasoning. I also add salt and pepper. With everything ready, I secure the lid and choose Manual mode for 10 minutes. The pressure builds and cooks the chicken perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the taste of your soup, try adding fresh herbs. Basil and rosemary work well. You can also use crushed red pepper for heat. Adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste. Always taste your soup before serving. This way, you can make it just right for you.

Cooking Tips

When your Instant Pot beeps, you can do a quick release. This keeps the soup from overcooking. Look for gnocchi that floats. When they rise to the top, they are done. If they sink, give them a little more time.

Presentation

Serve the soup in deep bowls. A sprinkle of parsley gives a nice touch. For a full meal, pair it with warm, crusty bread. This adds comfort and flavor to your meal.

Variations

Dietary Modifications

You can make this soup fit your needs. For gluten-free gnocchi, look for brands that use rice or corn. Many stores sell gluten-free options that taste great. If you want a dairy-free soup, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice flavor and keeps the soup creamy.

Additional Ingredients

Want to change it up? You can add different proteins. Sausage or turkey gives a nice twist to the soup. For more veggies, peas and corn work well. They add color and extra nutrients. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home!

Different Cooking Methods

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still enjoy this soup. For the stove-top method, follow the same steps but use a large pot. Sauté the vegetables and chicken, then add the broth and seasonings. Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through.

For a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except the gnocchi and cream. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the gnocchi and cream in the last 30 minutes. This way, you’ll still get that delicious flavor!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store your Chicken Gnocchi Soup, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep the soup fresh. The soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the soup, follow these steps:

1. Let the soup cool completely.

2. Use a freezer-safe container or bag.

3. Leave some space at the top for expansion.

4. Seal tightly and label with the date.

The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To thaw, move the soup to the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave.

Reheating Techniques

When reheating, I suggest using the stove for the best results. Pour the soup into a pot. Heat on low and stir occasionally. This helps maintain the creamy texture.

If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup seems thick. Enjoy your warm bowl!

FAQs

What is the best way to reheat Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

To reheat Chicken Gnocchi Soup, use the stove or microwave. On the stove, heat it over low heat. Stir often to keep it creamy. If using a microwave, place it in a bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps the soup stay smooth.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Cook it fully and cool it down. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to leave out the cream until you reheat it.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice flavor and keeps the soup creamy. Another option is using almond milk. It has a different taste but works well too. Just know it won't be as rich as heavy cream.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids usually love this soup. The gnocchi are soft and fun to eat. To make it even more appealing, add some grated cheese on top. You can also cut the veggies into smaller pieces. This makes it easier for little ones to enjoy.

This blog post covered a delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup made in the Instant Pot. We discussed its main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can customize the soup to fit your diet and preferences. It’s easy to store any leftovers and reheat them later.

Try making this soup for a cozy meal. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!