Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that promises to impress anyone you serve it to. This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy pesto, and fresh spinach with pillowy potato gnocchi. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or any day you crave comfort food. With its velvety texture and vibrant flavors, this soup truly stands out as a restaurant-worthy meal that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto gives this soup a rich and complex taste that stands out.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up with ease.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this soup fits right in.
- Comforting & Filling: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it satisfying and inviting.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the creaminess or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the necessary tools ready. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for seasoning the chicken thoroughly before cooking.
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution while cooking the soup, ensuring everything blends well.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring browned chicken without excess oil or broth.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, gather the following ingredients:
Protein & Seasonings
- 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
Fats & Aromatics
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, (diced)
- 2 sticks celery, (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic, (finely chopped)
Vegetables & Add-ins
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, (finely chopped)
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp pesto, (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 Parmesan rind, (optional)
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach, (half of a large bag; feel free to use more!)
Carbs & Dairy
- 16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi (or small pasta such as orecchiette)
- ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
- 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 until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
When hot, add the seasoned chicken.
Cook, stirring occasionally until browned on all sides (about 4–5 minutes). The chicken will finish cooking later in the soup.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the browned chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onion and finely chopped celery to the pot.
Season with ½ tsp Kosher salt.
Cook while stirring occasionally until translucent (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste. Break up the paste with a spatula as you stir.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in low-sodium chicken broth along with pesto and optional Parmesan rind.
Bring mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Return cooked chicken along with any juices from the plate into the pot.
Stir in dried potato gnocchi.
Cook for about 3–5 minutes or until gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
Step 6: Add Cream
Stir in heavy cream (start with ½ cup; add more if desired), baby spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.
Serve immediately in bowls topped with additional Parmesan cheese if wanted!
Enjoy your homemade Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serving Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is all about enhancing the experience. This luscious soup not only warms your heart but also impresses your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make it even more special.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Pair with a Simple Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. It’s refreshing and perfect for cutting through the creaminess.
Drizzle with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top enhances the flavors. It adds richness and a smooth finish that elevates every spoonful.
Add Extra Cheese
- Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy bite. It melts into the soup, adding depth to each serving.
How to Perfect Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
To make this Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup even more delightful, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible. They enhance flavors and improve overall taste.
Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference. More cream creates an indulgently rich soup.
Cook Gnocchi Separately: For firmer gnocchi, cook them separately in salted water before adding to the soup. This prevents them from becoming too soft.
Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time. This deepens the flavors and makes it even more delicious.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning as necessary to ensure perfect flavor balance.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience significantly. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth while adding a savory crunch.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a nice contrast with its crunchy romaine and creamy dressing that mirrors the soup’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and sweetness alongside your meal while providing healthy nutrients.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers create a light appetizer that brings freshness to your table.
Cheese Platter: Offer various cheeses along with crackers for snacking before or after enjoying your soup; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be served alongside as they provide a hearty addition without overshadowing the soup’s richness.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing keeps things refreshing and complements the creamy texture of the soup nicely.
Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad serves as a sweet contrast to the savory soup; it’s refreshing and cleanses the palate between bites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong chicken: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Other cuts can alter the texture and flavor.
- Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi only needs a few minutes in the soup until they float. Overcooking can make them mushy.
- Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning the chicken and soup base adequately. Taste as you go to ensure rich flavors.
- Substituting fresh ingredients with dried: Fresh spinach and garlic add vibrant flavors. Dried versions won’t deliver the same taste or texture.
- Adding cream too early: Stir in heavy cream at the end of cooking for a velvety texture. Adding it too soon can lead to curdling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow soup to cool before refrigerating.
Freezing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Leave some space in the container since the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup and their answers:
What makes Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup special?
This soup combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy textures that create an irresistible flavor profile.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How can I customize Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor variations.
What should I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just another dinner option; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. With its creamy consistency and flavorful ingredients, this soup is versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone begging for the recipe. This indulgent dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious broth, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes, creamy pesto, and fresh spinach. The addition of potato gnocchi makes it heartier and satisfying—a perfect choice for cozy dinners or special occasions. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, this soup offers a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp pesto
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 16 oz dried potato gnocchi
- ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Season cubed chicken with salt, oregano, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat; brown the chicken for about 4-5 minutes and set aside.
- Sauté diced onion and celery in the same pot until translucent. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste; stir well.
- Pour in chicken broth and pesto; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pot, add gnocchi, and cook until they float (3-5 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and spinach; adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
