Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Indulge in the cozy comforts of winter with our Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup. If you’re looking for a dish that warms your soul and fills your home with delightful aromas, this is it! This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home.

The combination of juicy, tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and the bright zest of lemon creates a comforting bowl that everyone will love. With its creamy base and nutrient-rich kale, this soup is sure to be a hit around your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly flavors: The creamy texture and bright lemon make this dish appealing for both kids and adults.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit everyone’s taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For our Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need the following:

For the Soup

• 2 lbs. organic chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced thin
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Sea salt + black pepper, to taste
• 1 (16 oz.) package potato gnocchi, homemade or store-bought (I like to use Delallo foods)
• 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp sea salt

For the Creamy Base

• 4 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
• 5 cups organic chicken stock/broth
• 1 lemon, freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups organic heavy cream

For the Greens

• 2 cups organic kale, de-stemmed + chopped
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey if you’re short on time!
• Add more veggies: Throw in some carrots or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick in every bowl!

How to Make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown ensures maximum flavor. Once cooked through, remove them from the pot and let them rest while you prepare the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, melt butter and add minced garlic along with thyme sprigs. Sautéing these ingredients allows their natural flavors to bloom into the soup base. You’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed mixture and stir it well to create a roux. This step is crucial because it adds thickness to our creamy base. Gradually pour in chicken stock while continuously whisking until smooth.

Step 4: Add Lemon & Cream

Once thickened, squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add heavy cream along with lemon zest. Stir everything together until it’s beautifully combined. The acidity from the lemon balances perfectly with creaminess!

Step 5: Bring It Together

Return your cooked chicken back into the pot along with kale and gnocchi. Cook until everything is heated through and gnocchi are tender—this takes just a few minutes! The colors will brighten up as you mix it all together.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle your steaming soup into bowls and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top! Enjoy each comforting bite while wrapped in your favorite blanket—it’s winter bliss in a bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take it from good to great!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh thyme, garlic, and organic chicken will enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a little more flour during the cooking process. This will help create that luxurious creaminess while still keeping the flavors balanced.
• Lemon balancing act: Don’t skimp on the lemon zest and juice! They brighten up the dish and cut through the richness of the cream, creating a perfect harmony in flavors.
• Customize your greens: While kale adds great texture and nutrition, feel free to swap it out for spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer. Each green brings its own unique taste and health benefits.
• Make it ahead: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat on the stove before serving for an easy meal prep option!

How to Serve Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Presentation can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your culinary creations! Here are some delightful ways to serve this cozy soup.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also provides an earthy flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adding more cheese on top just before serving makes for a decadent finish that any cheese lover will appreciate!
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zing of citrus in every bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. Opt for a gluten-free version if needed!
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a sweet contrast to the savory soup, making for a wholesome meal.
• Garlic knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots are always a hit! Their delicious flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of your gnocchi soup.

By incorporating these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup will not just be a meal; it’ll be an experience to cherish! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! Its hearty flavors only deepen after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Plus, you can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent the gnocchi from becoming too soft, consider storing the gnocchi separately if you plan on keeping leftovers for more than one day.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi. This helps maintain texture.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using frozen gnocchi, cook them separately according to package instructions and add them to the reheated soup just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I make Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. Just ensure that your gnocchi is also dairy-free!

How long does Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of protein in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap chicken with cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re looking for a quicker option.

What can I serve with Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Creamy Winter Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort during chilly winter nights. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations—I’d love to hear how you make this dish your own. Happy cooking!