This Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup is the perfect comfort food, blending tender chicken, crispy bacon, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor—ideal for a cozy night in or a family meal.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In the same pot, add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. If the pot looks dry, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth and Gnocchi

1. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are cooked.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Spinach

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
2. Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and chopped spinach to the pot. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cook Notes

• Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but homemade gnocchi will make the dish even more special. Cooking time for gnocchi is very quick, so be sure not to overcook them.
• Lighter Version: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but the soup will be less rich.
• Add Vegetables: You can easily add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for more texture and flavor.

Variations

• Creamy Chicken & Bacon Tortellini Soup: Swap out the gnocchi for cheese tortellini for a fun twist on this dish.
• Spicy Gnocchi Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth and seasonings you use are gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this soup ahead of time, but the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid and become softer. If you plan to make it in advance, consider cooking the gnocchi separately and adding it just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or cream to loosen the soup if needed.

Can I freeze this soup?

Cream-based soups tend to change texture when frozen, but you can freeze it if necessary. Let the soup cool completely before freezing, and when reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

What kind of chicken can I use?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs will add more flavor and richness, while breasts provide a leaner option. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with garlic bread, crusty baguettes, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious on its own!

Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy broth with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and soft gnocchi. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy nights and comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home!