This Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, herb-infused broth. Enhanced with bacon, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any season.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

6 slices thick bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced (1″ pieces)
2 large carrots, chopped (1 ½ cups)
2 ribs of celery, diced (1 cup)
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon coarse salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken, shredded
16–20 oz fresh or packaged gnocchi
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups baby spinach
2 cups half and half (or evaporated milk or whole milk)

Directions

In a 6-quart pot, sauté the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Add butter, diced onions, chopped carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute, stirring occasionally.
Stir in salt, black pepper, dried basil, poultry seasoning, dried thyme, and minced rosemary. Cook for another minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, and gnocchi. Stir and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Add the baby spinach and cook for a few minutes until wilted.
Pour in the half and half, stir, and cover the pot. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to warm through.
Stir, taste, and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 92mg
Sodium: 2373mg
Total Carbohydrates: 43g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 34g
Vitamin A: 10792 IU
Vitamin C: 9mg
Calcium: 181mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 1081mg

The Origins of Gnocchi and Its Versatility in Soup

Gnocchi, the star of this soup, is an Italian dumpling made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs. It has a rich history in Italian cuisine and is often served as a side dish, but its versatility has made it a popular choice for hearty soups. Gnocchi is prized for its light, airy texture, which complements creamy soups like this one. The soft, pillowy dumplings absorb the flavors of the soup, creating a rich, satisfying bite with each spoonful.

Though gnocchi is most commonly associated with Italian cooking, it has spread to many parts of the world and is embraced by home cooks and chefs alike. Whether paired with a rich, creamy sauce or added to brothy soups like this one, gnocchi provides a comforting foundation that makes the dish feel substantial without being too heavy.

Why Choose Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. First, it is a one-pot meal, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. The combination of flavors from the bacon, chicken, and herbs melds together beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that feels like it’s been simmering for hours. The gnocchi itself adds a satisfying texture that elevates the dish, making it a filling and hearty meal without being overwhelming.

Another great reason to try this soup is its adaptability. While this recipe calls for specific ingredients like baby spinach, carrots, and celery, you can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. For instance, adding mushrooms or swapping spinach for kale could introduce new flavors, while a dash of extra garlic or different spices could tweak the overall profile to your liking. It’s a dish that can easily be modified to suit your personal tastes.

The Nutritional Value of Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Despite its creamy texture and rich flavor, this soup can be part of a balanced meal. The chicken provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to a nutritious diet, while the gnocchi provides carbohydrates, giving you the energy needed to fuel your day. The creaminess of the soup comes from half-and-half (or whole milk), which can be swapped for a lighter alternative like skim milk or non-dairy options to reduce calories if desired.

As with any soup, portion control is key, but this dish can fit into a balanced meal plan with moderate calorie counts. By including lean chicken, plenty of vegetables, and a lighter cream base, this soup can be satisfying without being overly indulgent. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something to enjoy on a chilly evening without feeling too heavy afterward.

How to Make Your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup Even Healthier

While this soup is already quite nutritious, there are a few ways to make it even healthier without compromising flavor. For example, you could reduce the amount of bacon used or opt for turkey bacon, which has less fat and fewer calories. You could also replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk to make the soup dairy-free. Additionally, swapping in gluten-free gnocchi would make the soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

If you’re looking to increase the vegetable content, consider adding extra greens like kale, arugula, or even zucchini. These additions will boost the soup’s fiber content and offer more vitamins without significantly altering the flavor.

Perfect Pairings with Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with other dishes can make for a complete meal. Here are a few ideas for sides and accompaniments that will complement the flavors of the soup:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crunchy bread is the perfect companion for dipping into the creamy broth. Opt for a rustic sourdough or a baguette for a simple, yet satisfying addition to your meal.
Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. The acidity from the dressing can help balance out the creaminess of the dish.
Cheese: Grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar can add a burst of flavor and a bit of texture to each bowl. The salty richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the soup’s creamy base.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you could serve the soup with a side of roasted vegetables or a cheesy garlic bread. These will elevate the meal while still keeping the overall vibe of comfort and warmth.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck because this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gnocchi may continue to absorb the liquid as it sits, making the soup thicker over time. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or milk to reach your desired consistency, especially if the soup has thickened too much.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Soup

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, comforting gnocchi, and rich, flavorful broth offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish is sure to please.

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