Name: Easy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup – Quick & Delicious Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts or 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded; 6 slices bacon, diced; 1 lb gnocchi; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

If you are looking for a comforting and creamy soup that is packed with rich flavors, this Easy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup is the perfect choice. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious creamy broth for a meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying on the table in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Rich & Creamy: A luscious, flavorful broth makes this soup irresistibly comforting.
Packed with Protein: Chicken and bacon provide a hearty and satisfying meal.
Comfort Food Favorite: Perfect for cold evenings when you need something warm and cozy.
Versatile: Easily customizable with additional vegetables or different proteins.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup for maximum enjoyment.

Ingredients

chicken breast or rotisserie chicken
bacon
gnocchi
onion
garlic
carrots
celery
chicken broth
heavy cream
parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
salt
pepper
olive oil
spinach or kale (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Dice the bacon into small pieces and cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks if using raw chicken.
Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Chicken: If using raw chicken, add it to the pot and cook until no longer pink.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and let cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the surface.
Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Let simmer for a couple of minutes until thickened.
Add Greens and Bacon: Stir in spinach or kale if using. Add the crispy bacon back to the soup.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with extra parmesan and crusty bread on the side.

Variations

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.
Low-Carb: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture of gnocchi may slightly change upon reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

You can let it simmer longer, add more parmesan cheese, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this soup. Just add it in with the broth.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the gnocchi and cream during the last 30 minutes.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

Any store-bought potato gnocchi works well, but homemade gnocchi will make it even more special.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the soup will be less rich. To keep it creamy, mix in a bit of cornstarch with the milk before adding.

Can I substitute bacon with something else?

If you prefer, use turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit it altogether for a lighter version.

How do I prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking. Add the gnocchi towards the end and cook just until they float.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

How can I make it extra flavorful?

A splash of white wine, extra garlic, or a parmesan rind simmered in the broth can deepen the flavor.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup is a go-to comfort dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With its creamy texture, savory bacon, and soft gnocchi, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a cozy dish for a chilly evening, this soup delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort!

Print