Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup | Thank You Berry Much

This Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect cozy dish for any night of the week. Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a warming bowl of soup that satisfies without any guilt. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent comfort meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients and simple steps, making it a breeze for beginner cooks.
• Comforting and Hearty: With creamy textures and tender gnocchi paired with veggies, it’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, this soup will fill you up without weighing you down.
• Customizable: Tailor the recipe to your taste by adding or substituting veggies and herbs, making it your own.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week—just reheat and enjoy!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oil & Aromatics:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (188g)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 23g or 2 ½ tbsp)

• Vegetables:

  • 3-4 stalks celery or 1 ½ cups diced (about 160g)
  • 5 medium carrots, peeled and diced (or shredded) (about 220g)
  • 2-3 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 440g)

• Liquid Base:

  • 3 ½ cups vegetable stock
  • 2 ½ cups unsweetened plain oat milk (or unsweetened plain soy milk)

• Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
  • 10 oz Morningstar Farms Vegan Chick’n Strips

• Seasonings & Thickeners:

  • ½ cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • ¼ tsp dried ground thyme (or sub 1 tsp regular dried thyme)
  • 2 tsp poultry seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp dried parsley
  • ¼ tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • ¾ tsp fine table salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 dried bay leaf
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30g) to thicken the soup
  • 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Fresh chopped rosemary, salt & black pepper (add to taste)

How to Make Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil over medium-low heat in a large stock pot or Dutch oven. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the celery begins to soften.

2. Incorporate the Potatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced Yukon gold potatoes, ground thyme, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and flour, ensuring all vegetables are evenly coated in the flour.

3. Add the Liquid: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a rolling simmer. Leave uncovered and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat and stir in the oat milk, vegan chick’n strips, and fresh thyme. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken further.

5. Prepare the Gnocchi: While the soup simmers, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions.

6. Combine Gnocchi: After the gnocchi is cooked, add it to the soup along with the fresh spinach (if using). Let the soup simmer on low for another 3-5 minutes.

7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary as needed. Serve warm and enjoy! The soup will thicken and develop a creamier texture as it cools. For an even richer consistency, you can add 1/2 cup to 1 cup of cashew cream.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Taking the time to properly sauté the onions and garlic brings out their sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
• Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, simply add more vegetable stock or oat milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning; this is especially important when using pre-seasoned products like the vegan chicken strips.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can significantly elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.

Easy Variations

• Different Protein: Substitute the vegan chick’n with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein for a different texture.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a bit of heat.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Swap the oat milk for coconut milk for a richer, slightly sweet flavor.
• Ladle on the Greens: Toss in kale or chard instead of spinach for a more robust green addition.

What to Serve with Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Crusty Bread: A slice of bread is ideal for dipping and absorbing the delicious broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal that feels indulgent.
• Roasted Veggies: Serve with a side of mixed roasted vegetables for more fiber and nutrients.
• Cheesy Vegan Biscuits: These are great for soaking up the flavorful soup while adding extra deliciousness.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
• Freezer Storage: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. To preserve the texture, avoid reheating in the microwave if possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underseasoning: Don’t forget to taste and season your soup throughout the cooking process for the best flavor.
• Overcooking Veggies: Keep an eye on your veggies to ensure they maintain some texture; they shouldn’t turn mushy.
• Adding Gnocchi Too Early: Wait until the soup is ready to add the gnocchi; this prevents them from getting mushy.
• Skipping the Flour: Don’t skip the flour unless you prefer a thinner soup as it helps thicken the broth beautifully.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can drastically improve flavor. Always use them when possible for optimum taste.

Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Background & Cultural Inspiration

Gnocchi is a beloved pasta originating from Italy, traditionally made from potatoes or flour. This soup takes that comforting foundation and infuses it with plant-based ingredients, embodying a modern vegetarian twist on classic Italian flavors. The creamy texture of this dish reflects the Italian knack for blending rich, hearty elements with simple, high-quality ingredients. This recipe not only celebrates the traditional gnocchi but also embraces the growing trend of plant-based cooking, making it a perfect choice for both vegans and non-vegans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free gnocchi and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

How long does this soup keep?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Can I substitute the oat milk?

Yes, other plant-based milks like soy, almond, or cashew milk can be used, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

Is this soup spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the soup a day ahead, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vegan Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of hearty vegetables and creamy broth with the delightful bite of gnocchi. It’s not only easy to whip up but also supports the idea of nourishing yourself with wholesome ingredients. Whether for a family meal or a cozy night in, this soup is a must-try that’s sure to warm your heart—and your table. Enjoy this recipe as a delicious way to embrace plant-based cooking without sacrificing comfort!

Print