If you’ve ever walked into a Publix supermarket and found yourself drawn to the warm, comforting aroma wafting from their deli section, you’ve probably come across their Chicken Gnocchi Soup. It’s a fan favorite-rich, creamy, and packed with tender chunks of chicken and soft, pillowy gnocchi. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal for a cold evening or just want to treat yourself to something hearty, this soup is the answer. But why settle for just the deli version when you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? In this post, we’ll take you step-by-step through how to make a homemade version of Publix’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup, complete with all the ingredients, tips, and tricks you need to master the recipe.
Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
This copycat recipe is a labor of love that’s guaranteed to bring all the satisfaction of the Publix version without the need to leave your house. It’s packed with tender chicken, gnocchi, spinach, and a creamy broth that’ll have you going back for seconds (or even thirds!). It’s simple, flavorful, and a dish your family and friends will rave about. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Ingredients Needed
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious soup. The ingredients list is straightforward but filled with rich flavors that blend perfectly together.
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (or Thighs)
Chicken is the heart of the soup, providing a lean, protein-packed base.
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Potato Gnocchi
These soft, pillowy dumplings are a key element, making the soup more filling and adding texture. You can find these pre-made at most grocery stores.
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Olive Oil
For sautéing the vegetables and chicken, olive oil adds richness and depth.
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Carrots
A touch of sweetness and a slight crunch, carrots complement the savory flavors of the soup.
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Celery
Offers a subtle freshness and balance to the richness of the cream.
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Onion
A fundamental aromatic ingredient that brings out the flavors of the soup base.
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Garlic
Fresh garlic brings that unmistakable savory aroma and deepens the overall taste.
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Chicken Broth
A hearty chicken broth creates the foundation for the soup, infusing it with rich, savory flavor.
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Heavy Cream
The secret to the soup’s luxurious creaminess. It adds that velvety texture we love.
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Spinach
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color, flavor, and nutrition, while complementing the other ingredients.
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Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty kick that enhances the soup’s richness and depth.
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Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning, these help balance all the flavors.
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Optional: Fresh Herbs (like Thyme Or Rosemary)
A little bit of fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile, though they’re optional.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get into the cooking process. This recipe is straightforward but requires a bit of time and attention to detail for the best results. But trust me, it’s so worth it.
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Prepare The Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pot and set aside to cool.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté them over medium heat until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. At this stage, you can also add in any fresh herbs if you’re using them.
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Shred The Chicken
- While the broth is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
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Cook The Gnocchi
- Add the potato gnocchi to the soup and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they begin to float to the top.
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Make It Creamy
- Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded chicken. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Add The Spinach
- Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
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Finish With Parmesan
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup, adding a beautiful layer of flavor.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why each of these ingredients plays such a pivotal role in this dish:
- Chicken: The protein adds substance to the soup, and when shredded, it provides a tender, juicy bite that pairs perfectly with the gnocchi.
- Gnocchi: These little dumplings are the star of the show, absorbing the rich broth while providing a satisfying, pillowy texture.
- Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its indulgent, creamy consistency and helps balance out the earthy flavors of the spinach and chicken.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach not only adds a burst of color and nutrition but also complements the creamy broth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Parmesan: The saltiness of the Parmesan brings a savory kick, rounding out the soup and giving it that extra flavor punch.
Expert Tips
To make this soup even better, here are a few expert tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi only needs a few minutes to cook. If you cook them too long, they can get mushy, which you definitely want to avoid.
- Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: If you have time, use bone-in chicken for an even richer broth. You can shred it once it’s cooked through.
- Add a Touch of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a subtle bright flavor that can balance the creaminess of the soup.
- Freeze Leftovers: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the gnocchi may change texture slightly after being frozen and reheated.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations you can try:
- Add Bacon: For a smoky, crispy element, fry up some bacon and crumble it into the soup.
- Use Kale Instead of Spinach: If you prefer a heartier green, kale works wonderfully in place of spinach.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for a plant-based protein (like tofu or tempeh) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Final Words
Making a homemade version of Publix’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a surefire way to bring comfort and warmth into your home. With a perfect balance of rich flavors, soft gnocchi, and tender chicken, it’s a soup that’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re looking to recreate a favorite deli dish or just want something delicious and filling for dinner, this recipe delivers.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
The main ingredients in Publix chicken gnocchi soup include chicken, gnocchi, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, spinach, heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings such as thyme and bay leaves.
Can I Substitute The Chicken In Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup With Another Protein?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins like turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even vegetarian options like tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
What Type Of Gnocchi Should I Use For Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
For the best results, use potato gnocchi, which is typically soft and pillowy. You can find it in the pasta section of most grocery stores, or in the refrigerated section at Publix.
How Do I Make The Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup Thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water, use a bit of flour, or simply reduce the soup by simmering it longer to allow it to thicken naturally.
Can I Make Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. However, the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so it’s best to add a bit more broth or cream when reheating.
Is Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup Gluten-free?
The traditional recipe is not gluten-free because gnocchi typically contains wheat. However, you can make the soup gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How Long Does Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup Last In The Refrigerator?
Publix chicken gnocchi soup will last about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.
Can I Freeze Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
You can freeze the soup, but the gnocchi may become mushy when reheated. If freezing, it’s better to freeze the soup base without the gnocchi, then cook the gnocchi fresh when you reheat the soup.
What Herbs And Spices Are Used In Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
The recipe typically includes thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. You can also add parsley or rosemary for extra flavor.
Can I Make Publix Chicken Gnocchi Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients (except the gnocchi and cream) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the gnocchi and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.