Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup! The name says it all – this soup is guaranteed to impress. Rich and creamy, it’s filled with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, a little pesto, fresh spinach, and tender potato gnocchi. I like to add cream and Parmesan for a velvety smooth texture. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this soup is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and creamy broth creates a rich flavor that delights the palate.
• Versatile Meal: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup suits any occasion and pairs beautifully with crusty bread.
• Comfort Food: Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it an ideal choice for cold days or when you’re craving something cozy.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with chicken and spinach, this soup provides protein and nutrients without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Slotted spoon
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for seasoning the chicken evenly and keeping everything organized.
• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space to cook all ingredients together while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked chicken without carrying excess liquid.
• Spatula: Helps in breaking up tomato paste easily while stirring.

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 Sautéing

• 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

For the Broth

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

For the Gnocchi and Creaminess

• 16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi, (or small pasta like 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 coat the chicken evenly.

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 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. Then add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 2 Tbsp tomato paste. Stir well to break up the paste as it dissolves.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with 2 Tbsp pesto and a Parmesan rind if using. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Return the browned chicken back into the pot along with any juices on the plate. Stir in 16oz dried potato gnocchi. Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes or until gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.

Step 6: Add Cream

Finally, stir in ½ cup heavy cream (up to 1 cup if you want it extra creamy), add in fresh baby spinach, and sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning with additional Kosher salt or black pepper as needed. Divide between bowls and serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired!

How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving this delectable Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is an experience in itself. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. It adds a satisfying crunch and complements the rich flavors.

Offer a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Serve with Wine

• A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, elevates the dining experience and pairs beautifully with the flavors of the soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to each bowl.

Include Parmesan Cheese on the Side

• Grated Parmesan allows guests to sprinkle extra cheese over their soup according to their preference, enhancing its richness even more.

Use Fun Bowls

• Serve your soup in colorful or rustic bowls to make the presentation more inviting and enjoyable for your guests.

How to Perfect Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Creating the ultimate Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for perfection every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance flavor and texture significantly compared to frozen or canned options.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! This ensures that you can tailor the salt and pepper levels according to your preferences.
• Cream Consistency Control: Start with ½ cup of cream and add more if you prefer an extra creamy soup. Remember that a little goes a long way!
• Sauté Aromatics Well: Properly cooking onions, garlic, and celery releases their natural sweetness and depth of flavor essential for this dish.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on gnocchi; they should float when cooked correctly. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Allow Flavors to Meld: Letting your soup simmer longer helps deepen flavors. Just be careful not to let it boil too vigorously after adding cream.

Best Side Dishes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Complementing your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup with side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is a classic pairing that adds flavor and crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a tangy balance against the creaminess of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that enhances nutritional value while complementing the soup’s flavors.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese create a delightful pairing; ideal for sopping up any leftover soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs add elegance and are perfect finger food alongside your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette brings freshness without overwhelming the palate.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a slightly tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with creamy dishes.
8. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with fresh veggies offer an Asian-inspired twist that brightens up the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, you want to ensure it turns out perfect. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Underseasoning the chicken: Failing to properly season the chicken before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and spices to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: If you cook the gnocchi too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them; they are done when they float to the surface.
• Skipping the aromatics: Not sautéing onions, garlic, and celery can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take time to sauté these ingredients for a richer soup.
• Using high-sodium broth: If you use regular broth instead of low-sodium, it can make the soup overly salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over flavor.
• Adding cream too early: Introducing heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the soup is nearly done before stirring in the cream.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Freeze in freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low flame, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes; however, adjust cooking time as they contain more moisture.

What can I add for extra flavor in Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary or a splash of white wine during cooking for added depth.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi or substitute with small gluten-free pasta.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will impress anyone at your table. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it versatile for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete dinner. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting embrace!