How to make Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients:

6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces

1/2 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy whipping cream

Italian seasoning, to taste

1 pound potato gnocchi, uncooked

2 cups rotisserie chicken, cooked and shredded

2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed

salt, to taste

pepper, to taste

Instructions:

In a soup pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 10 minutes.

Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate and leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot.

Add the onion to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes.

Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the chicken broth, the cream, the Italian seasoning, the gnocchi, and most of the bacon (reserving the rest for garnish) to the pot and stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar and cook, stirring often, until thickened, about 15 minutes.

Add the chicken and the spinach to the soup and cook until warmed through.

Season with the salt and pepper as needed.

Serve immediately.

Notes:

Flavorful Soup Base: The soup starts with crispy bacon, creating a flavorful base for the dish. The rendered bacon fat adds richness to the soup.

Aromatic Foundation: Sautéed onions and garlic add depth and aroma to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

Creamy Texture: The combination of chicken broth and heavy whipping cream creates a creamy and luscious texture for the soup, providing a comforting and indulgent experience.

Hearty Ingredients: Potato gnocchi and shredded rotisserie chicken make this soup hearty and satisfying. The gnocchi adds a pillowy texture, while the chicken contributes protein and flavor.

Vibrant Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds vibrant color and a nutritious boost to the soup. It wilts gently in the hot broth, providing a pop of green and a hint of freshness.

Seasoning: Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper season the soup, bringing balance and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together relatively quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Versatile: You can customize this soup by adding additional vegetables like carrots or celery or incorporating different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the soup immediately, garnished with reserved crispy bacon and perhaps a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for extra flavor.

Nutritious and Filling: With a balanced macronutrient profile and a good amount of fiber from the vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing, making it a wholesome meal option.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 350 | Protein: 15 g | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Dietary Fiber: 5 g | Sugars: 5 g | Fat: 20 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Cholesterol: 30 mg | Sodium: 800 mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spice level of the red sauce in the enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can control the spice level by adjusting the number of Chile De Arbol or omitting them if you prefer a milder flavor.

What’s the purpose of using lard in the red sauce?

Lard adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.

It’s a traditional ingredient that enhances the overall taste of the enchiladas.

Can I make the red sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the red sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

This can save time when assembling the enchiladas later.

Is it necessary to fry the tortillas before dipping them in the sauce?

Frying the tortillas before dipping enhances their flavor and texture.

It also helps them hold up better to the sauce without becoming too soggy.

What are some common fillings for red enchiladas?

Popular fillings include shredded chicken, cheese (such as queso fresco), diced onions, and sometimes beans.

Can I use a different type of chilies for the red sauce?

While the listed chilies contribute to the traditional flavor, you can experiment with other varieties based on your preference or what’s available.

How long should I let the red sauce simmer?

Simmering the red sauce for a couple of minutes allows the flavors to meld.

Adjust the simmering time based on your desired consistency and taste.

Can I make the red sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken bouillon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What are some creative toppings for red enchiladas?

Consider topping your enchiladas with Mexican crema, extra queso fresco, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices.

Can I freeze red enchiladas for later use?

Yes, you can freeze red enchiladas.

Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.