Chicken & Bacon Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon drippings until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Chicken and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook until they float to the top, about 3 to 4 minutes.
6. Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream and add the spinach leaves, letting them wilt slightly. Sprinkle the cooked bacon and freshly grated Parmesan on top. Stir to combine.
7. Serve: Serve the soup hot, with extra Parmesan and bacon if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!