Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup combines tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fluffy potato gnocchi. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you need a little pick-me-up. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and Parmesan creates an unforgettable taste.
- Creamy Texture: Heavy cream makes this soup velvety smooth, perfect for dipping crusty bread.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this comforting meal in under an hour.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types for a personal touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Soup pot or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as it distributes heat evenly and retains warmth well.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked chicken without excess liquid, keeping the flavor intact.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1½ tsp Kosher salt, (divided)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
Aromatics and Flavorings
- 1 medium sweet onion, (diced)
- 2 sticks celery, (finely chopped)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic, (finely chopped)
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
Broth and Creaminess
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp pesto, (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 Parmesan rind, (optional)
For the Gnocchi Addition
- 16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi, (or small pasta, such as orecchiette)
Final Touches
- ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach, (half of a large bag; feel free to use more!)
- ½ cup Parmesan, (grated)
How to Make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Season with 1 tsp Kosher salt, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. When hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 diced onion and 2 stalks of diced celery. Season with ½ tsp Kosher salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves chopped garlic, and 2 Tbsp tomato paste. Stir well to break apart the tomato paste.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth along with 2 Tbsp pesto and a Parmesan rind if you are using one. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Return the previously cooked chicken back into the soup along with any juices from the plate. Stir in 16 oz of dried potato gnocchi. Cook until they begin to float to the top and are tender—about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Add Cream
Stir in between ½ cup to up to 1 cup of heavy cream depending on your preference for creaminess. Add in fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving immediately with additional Parmesan if desired!
How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serving Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this creamy favorite that will surely impress your guests.
Pair with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Add a few basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.
Accompany with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread: For added flavor, garlic bread is perfect and pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a crisp contrast to the rich soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed mixed greens can provide a refreshing balance.
Serve with Wine
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the richness of the soup.
- Sauvignon Blanc: The acidity in Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
How to Perfect Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
To achieve the ultimate version of this delicious soup, consider these tips. Each one can enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables make a significant difference in taste compared to frozen or canned options.
- Adjust Cream Amount: Experiment with the amount of heavy cream; less for a lighter soup, more for extra richness.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
- Incorporate More Greens: Feel free to add more spinach or other leafy greens like kale for added nutrition and color.
- Simmer Longer for Depth: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavor profile, especially with herbs and spices.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld; make it in advance for optimal taste.
Best Side Dishes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Enhance your meal by pairing your creamy chicken soup with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the rich flavors perfectly.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds texture and sweetness.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite alongside your soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are delightful and add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory soup.
- Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas offer a crispy contrast to the creamy soup while being easy to prepare.
- Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with olives, cheeses, and cured meats can be an elegant way to start your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Skipping the seasoning – Always season your chicken before cooking. This enhances flavor and prevents blandness.
- Overcooking the gnocchi – Keep an eye on the gnocchi while they cook. They should only take 3-5 minutes to become tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
- Neglecting the broth quality – Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness. High-sodium broths can overpower the soup.
- Not adjusting cream to taste – Start with ½ cup of heavy cream. You can always add more for a richer texture, but it’s hard to take it out once added.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness – Using fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes makes a big difference. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup lasts for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl at medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Can I make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for later use.
What can I substitute for potato gnocchi?
You can replace potato gnocchi with small pasta like orecchiette or even rice if desired.
How can I customize Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto will add a fresh flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy at any mealtime. With its velvety texture and flavorful ingredients, this soup is sure to impress family and friends. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food that promises to warm your heart and soul. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fluffy potato gnocchi enveloped in a velvety cream broth, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The rich flavors and creamy texture will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 16 oz dried potato gnocchi
- ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Brown in olive oil and butter in a large pot for about 4-5 minutes.
- Sauté diced onion and celery until translucent. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste; cook briefly.
- Pour in chicken broth and pesto; bring to a boil then simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in cooked chicken and gnocchi; cook until gnocchi float to the surface (3-5 minutes).
- Add heavy cream and spinach; stir well before serving with grated Parmesan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
