Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that truly lives up to its name. This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup will impress your family and friends alike. Packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. With the addition of fresh spinach and potato gnocchi, this soup not only warms the heart but also satisfies the palate!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto creates a unique flavor profile that stands out.
- Comforting Texture: The rich creaminess makes every spoonful feel indulgent and satisfying.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for all skill levels in the kitchen.
- Versatile Serving Options: This soup can be served as a main course or a hearty side dish alongside crusty bread or a salad.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please!
Tools and Preparation
To make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are some essential items you will need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Wooden spatula or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for seasoning and tossing the chicken without any mess.
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking and simmering all ingredients evenly.
- Slotted spoon: Helps transfer cooked chicken without excess oil, keeping your soup light yet flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Chicken 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
For Cooking
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, (diced)
- 2 sticks celery, (finely chopped)
For Flavoring
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic, (finely chopped)
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp pesto, (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 Parmesan rind, (optional)
For Gnocchi & Creaminess
- 16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi (or small pasta, such as orecchiette)
- 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 ensure even seasoning.
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 while stirring occasionally until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the browned chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 diced onion and 2 finely chopped celery sticks. Season with ½ tsp Kosher salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. Then add in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves chopped garlic, and 2 Tbsp tomato paste. Stir well to break up the paste.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and stir in 2 Tbsp pesto along with a Parmesan rind if using. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Return the cooked chicken along with any juices collected on the plate back into the soup. Stir in 16 oz dried potato gnocchi and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until they begin floating on top and are tender.
Step 6: Add Cream
Stir in between ½ cup to up to 1 cup of heavy cream based on your desired richness. Add in 5 oz baby spinach and stir until wilted. Mix in your grated Parmesan cheese as well. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning by adding more Kosher salt or black pepper if necessary. Serve immediately in bowls with additional Parmesan if desired!
How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serving Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and making the meal memorable. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With a Crusty Baguette
- Enjoy the soup with slices of warm, crusty baguette. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Drizzled with Extra Pesto
- For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a little pesto over each bowl just before serving. It complements the soup beautifully.
Paired with a Glass of White Wine
- Sip on a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. This pairing enhances the richness of the soup.
Garnished with Parmesan Cheese
- Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. It adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
How to Perfect Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
To make your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup even better, consider these tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for creaminess; add more for a richer experience.
- Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. Just be sure not to overcook the chicken.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.
- Freeze Portions: If you have leftovers, freeze portions in airtight containers for an easy meal later.
Best Side Dishes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch alongside your soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side dish that balances out the creamy nature of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing contrast.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese are excellent for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious side that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds an elegant touch while keeping things healthy.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate after enjoying this rich soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dry meat. Brown it first, then finish cooking it in the soup for juicy results.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning at each stage can result in bland soup. Always season your broth and ingredients as you go for maximum flavor.
- Using Regular Tomatoes: Using regular tomatoes instead of sun-dried will change the flavor profile. Stick with sun-dried tomatoes for that rich, tangy taste.
- Adding Cream Too Early: Adding cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until just before serving to stir in the heavy cream for a smooth texture.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Avoid using frozen spinach as it can alter the soup’s texture and flavor.
- Not Adjusting Consistency: The soup may thicken more than desired while cooling. Always adjust with extra broth or cream to get your preferred consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup that might help you further.
How can I customize Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?
You can add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. Swap out chicken for turkey or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Can I make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, small pasta shapes like orecchiette or even rice work as great substitutes.
Can I freeze Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled down before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Serve with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a glass of white wine for an elevated dining experience!
Final Thoughts
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. Its creamy texture combined with flavorful ingredients makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or pantry staples. Enjoy this delightful dish that is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness for an unforgettable flavor experience. This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, featuring fresh spinach and potato gnocchi for an extra touch of comfort. With its rich texture and impressive flavor profile, this delightful recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1½ tsp Kosher salt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium sweet onion
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 16 oz dried potato gnocchi
- ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season cubed chicken with salt, oregano, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned chicken for about 4-5 minutes; remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté diced onion and celery until translucent. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste; mix well.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in pesto. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pot along with gnocchi; cook until gnocchi float (3-5 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach; adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
