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 and creamy texture. Grab a crusty baguette and pour yourself a glass of white apple vinegar. We’re definitely going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Flavor: The combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto creates a deliciously unique taste that will wow your guests.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this comforting dish on the table quickly.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty dinner or pack it for lunch; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of cream and cheese results in a rich, velvety soup that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and lean protein, this soup provides both comfort and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to easily season and mix the chicken before cooking.
• Soup pot or Dutch oven: A large pot is essential for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring the browned chicken without excess oil.
• Spatula: Helps in breaking up tomato paste and stirring ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 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 until 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 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

To the same pot, add 1 diced onion and 2 sticks of finely chopped 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 dissolve the paste.

Step 4: Add the Broth

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

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Return the browned chicken along with any juices back into the pot. Stir in the dried potato gnocchi. Cook for about 3–5 minutes until they begin to float and are tender.

Step 6: Add Cream

Stir in between ½ cup heavy cream (or up to 1 cup for extra creaminess), then add in the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the soup then adjust seasoning as needed by adding more Kosher salt or black pepper. Divide into bowls and serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese if desired!

How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its flavors and making the meal complete. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A fresh baguette or rustic sourdough complements the soup perfectly. Use it to soak up the creamy broth, adding a satisfying crunch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. The freshness helps cleanse the palate.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a burst of color and enhances flavor, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.

Serve with Garlic Toast

• Crispy garlic toast is an excellent side that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess. It’s easy to make by spreading garlic butter on bread and toasting until golden.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Providing extra grated Parmesan cheese allows guests to customize their bowls. The cheese melts beautifully into the hot soup for added richness.

Create a Soup Bar

• Set up a small station where guests can customize their soups with toppings like croutons, chili flakes, or additional pesto. This interactive element makes for a fun dining experience.

How to Perfect Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

To ensure your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly. Always opt for the freshest produce available for the best results.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Taking the time to brown the chicken adds depth of flavor to your soup. Don’t rush this step for optimal taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preferences to make sure every bowl is seasoned just right.
• Control Creaminess: Depending on your preference for creaminess, feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream added. Start with ½ cup and add more if desired.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors. Just ensure not to overcook any delicate ingredients like spinach.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Complementing your Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup with delightful side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots make an irresistible pairing that’s perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition alongside your creamy soup.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a crunchy contrast that pairs well with creamy textures.
4. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide refreshing notes that complement rich flavors.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side dish that harmonizes beautifully with chicken soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add substance and nutrition while being visually appealing on your table.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that balances savory tastes in your meal.
8. Baked Zucchini Fries: Lightly breaded zucchini fries serve as a crunchy side that kids and adults alike will enjoy alongside their soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland soup. Be sure to use the recommended amount of salt and spices.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long in the pot can make it dry. Brown it just until golden, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Using low-quality broth: A rich broth is essential for flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while enhancing taste.
• Not adjusting cream levels: Adding too little or too much cream can affect the soup’s consistency. Start with half a cup and adjust according to your preference.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic elevate the dish’s flavor. Don’t substitute them with dried versions for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave a little space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing this delicious soup.

How do I make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

You can easily make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi or small pasta. Just ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I customize the vegetables in Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I use instead of gnocchi in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use gnocchi, consider substituting with small pasta shapes like orecchiette or even rice for a different texture.

How do I store leftovers of Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust creaminess based on your taste. Give it a try; it’s bound to impress!