Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
When it comes to nourishing, hearty meals, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup. Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just a simple recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. I have made this soup countless times on busy weeknights or chilly weekends when all I want is quick and satisfying comfort. The convenience of using a rotisserie chicken makes this dish a breeze to prepare, and the combination of tender gnocchi, fresh kale, and vibrant vegetables leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for multiple reasons. First off, it’s a remarkable one-pot meal that combines all the good stuff — protein, greens, and carbohydrates — into a single, delicious dish. It’s incredibly budget-friendly, especially if you pick up a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store, saving both time and effort. Plus, this soup is an absolute crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will enjoy the soft gnocchi and the flavors of tender chicken swirling through the broth.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it also works wonders on those chilly days when you crave warmth and comfort. Picture this: You walk in after a long day, and within 30 minutes, you can have a nourishing soup bubbling on your stove, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.
"My family loved this soup! The gnocchi is so light, and I love that I can whip it up so quickly after work. It’s definitely going in our regular rotation!" – A happy home cook
Preparing Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Creating this delicious soup is easy and can be done in just a few steps. Start by sautéing aromatic vegetables to build a flavorful base. Then, you’ll add in your chicken and gnocchi, followed by a generous dose of nutrients from the kale. Cooking time is brief, making this recipe ideal for busy individuals or families.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delightful cooking experience:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Feel free to swap out the kale for spinach or any greens you prefer! You could also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, but it might change the depth of flavor.
Cooking Method
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery, sautéing them until they become tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually a few minutes.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped kale, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to fit your flavor preference.
- Cook just until the kale has wilted and everything is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup, consider garnishing it with some grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a fresh green salad topped with a light vinaigrette. The contrasting textures elevate the meal, making it even more satisfying.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its life, consider freezing it. When freezing, use containers that are safe for the freezer and leave space for expansion. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Always ensure it’s heated through to 165°F for safety.
Pro Chef Tips
- If you like a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking. It will enhance richness.
- Be cautious with the salt if your chicken broth is already seasoned, and taste before adding more.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
Creative Twists
Want to mix things up? Try adding different vegetables like zucchini or peas for additional color and nutrition. You could also swap the thyme for rosemary or oregano, delighting your taste buds with varying herbal notes. For a heartier meal, throw in some white beans for added protein.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to make this soup?
A: From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes making this soup. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight!
Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just choose gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
This Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll find it’s a recipe you return to time and again. Happy cooking!
Healthy Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 16 oz package gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped Feel free to substitute with spinach or other greens.
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 whole onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper Be cautious with the salt if your broth is already seasoned.
- as needed Olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery, sautéing them until they become tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually a few minutes.
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped kale, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to fit your flavor preference.
- Cook just until the kale has wilted and everything is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
