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Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup

Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup is a rich and hearty dish perfect for those cooler days when you need something comforting and satisfying. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, soft gnocchi, and a creamy broth come together with herbs and vegetables to create a soup that’s full of flavor. Let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  1. Cook Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

  1. Heat Olive Oil: Add the olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

  1. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  2. Return Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

  1. Add Gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

  1. Add Cream and Spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
  2. Add Bacon: Stir in the cooked bacon just before serving.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in a separate skillet and drain it on paper towels before adding it to the soup.
  • Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it back to the soup to ensure it remains tender and flavorful.
  • Heavy Cream: You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but the soup will be less creamy.

Variations

  • Turkey Gnocchi Soup: Substitute the chicken with turkey for a post-holiday meal option.
  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon, and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
  • Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth.
  • Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter contrast to the rich soup.
  • Grated Cheese: Top with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding more broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I Freeze Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup?

It is not recommended to freeze this soup, as the gnocchi and cream can change in texture after freezing and reheating. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the gnocchi and cream after reheating.

What Other Greens Can I Use?

If you don’t have spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to cook them until tender.

Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something rich and satisfying. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and enjoy this deliciously comforting meal!

Happy Cooking!

 

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