Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace, let me introduce you to my Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup! This soup has a way of making even the busiest weeknights feel special. With its rich and creamy base, tender chicken, and delightful sun-dried tomatoes, it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

What makes this soup so special? It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the love that goes into every spoonful. The addition of potato gnocchi adds a satisfying texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your favorite baguette and settle in—this is comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy goodness and comforting flavors packed into every bowl.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s dinner on a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this soup fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and savor it throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto creates an irresistible taste that’s both unique and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet wholesome, bringing together flavors that make this soup truly unforgettable. Let’s gather what you need!

For the Soup

• 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
• 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
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 Tbsp pesto, store-bought or homemade
• 1 Parmesan rind, optional

For the Gnocchi

• 16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi, or small pasta like orecchiette

For Creaminess

• ½ – 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach, half of a large bag (feel free to use more!)
• ½ cup Parmesan, grated

Variations

This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Change the pasta: Use any small pasta shape you have on hand if gnocchi isn’t available.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by placing your cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Season it with 1 teaspoon of Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss well! This step is crucial because seasoning early helps infuse flavor right into the chicken before it hits the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook while stirring occasionally until browned on all sides—about 4-5 minutes. Browning not only gives your chicken great flavor but also creates those lovely bits at the bottom of your pot that will enhance your soup later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

With your chicken nicely browned, remove it from the pot using a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate. In the same pot, add one diced onion and two stalks of finely chopped celery along with ½ teaspoon of Kosher salt. Sauté until translucent—around 3-5 minutes. Then add in your sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste. Stir well to break up the paste; this helps distribute its tangy flavor throughout your soup.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Now it’s time to add depth! Pour in four cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with two tablespoons of pesto and optionally toss in that Parmesan rind if you have one. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This simmering step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Return your cooked chicken back into the pot along with any juices that accumulated on your plate. Now stir in those delightful potato gnocchi! Cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top and are tender—this means they’re ready!

Step 6: Add Cream

The final touch! Stir in between half a cup to one cup of heavy cream depending on how creamy you want it—this is where that velvety texture comes from! Follow this with fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your soup now; adjust seasonings as needed with more salt or pepper if desired. Divide between bowls and serve immediately—with extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent!

And there you have it—a bowl full of comfort with my Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve that restaurant-worthy finish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly. Opting for fresh spinach instead of frozen can elevate the texture and taste of your soup.

• Adjust cream to taste: Depending on your preference for creaminess, feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream. Start with ½ cup, then add more if you want a richer flavor.

• Don’t skip the Parmesan rind: Adding a Parmesan rind during the simmering process infuses the soup with a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. It’s an easy way to take your soup to the next level.

• Simmer for flavor development: Allowing your soup to simmer for at least 10-15 minutes after adding the broth helps meld all those delicious flavors together. Patience is key!

• Taste as you go: Always taste your soup before serving! Adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper—this ensures every bowl is perfectly seasoned.

How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Presenting your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup in a lovely manner can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how you can serve this comforting dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing visual element.

Side Dishes

• Crusty baguette: Nothing complements a creamy soup like crusty bread. Use it to soak up every last drop of deliciousness!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Garlic bread: For those who can’t resist more carbs, serve garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a nice balance of flavors and textures while adding nutritional value to your meal.

Now you’re all set to impress everyone at your table with this exquisite Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish on busy weeknights. With some simple storage tips, you can savor the flavors of this soup any day of the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup that might help you in your cooking adventure!

Can I use other types of pasta instead of gnocchi in Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! While potato gnocchi adds a delightful texture, small pasta like orecchiette or ditalini works well too. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta type.

What makes this soup a perfect choice for dinner?

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also satisfying. Its combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and creamy texture makes it a comforting option for dinner.

How can I make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup healthier?

You can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for heavy cream. Additionally, adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini enhances nutrition while keeping it hearty!

Can I omit the cream in Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to skip the cream. You can add extra chicken broth to maintain a soupy consistency without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup! It’s truly special with its rich flavors and creamy texture that brings everyone together at the table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!