Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

If you are craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you have to try this Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Combining tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, luscious cream, and comforting gnocchi, this soup delivers layers of flavor and texture that make every spoonful utterly irresistible. It’s the perfect dish when you want something elegant yet easy, satisfying both the soul and the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to unlocking the full flavor in this soup. Each one plays a key role in creating that rich, creamy base, balanced with savory, aromatic notes and a pop of color.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Kosher salt: Seasoned in stages to enhance all the flavors evenly.
• Dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal warmth that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.
• Extra virgin olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables, lending a fruity richness.
• Unsalted butter: Works with olive oil to create a silky cooking base and deepen flavor.
• Sweet onion: Diced to add sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Celery: Finely chopped for a fresh, crunchy texture that softens with cooking.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a concentrated tang and vibrant color.
• Garlic cloves: Finely chopped to infuse the broth with mellow pungency.
• Tomato paste: Adds umami and richness, thickening the broth slightly.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation of the soup.
• Pesto: A spoonful of basil goodness that brightens and deepens every bite.
• Parmesan rind (optional): Simmered for an extra layer of savory, cheesy aroma and taste.
• Dried potato gnocchi: Tender little pillows that soak up the creamy broth perfectly.
• Heavy cream: The ingredient that turns this chicken soup into a luxuriously creamy experience.
• Fresh baby spinach: Adds vibrancy, nutrients, and a pop of green freshness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in to finish with sharp, nutty flavor and a velvety texture.

How to Make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Season and prepare the chicken

Start by tossing your cubed chicken breasts in a large bowl with a teaspoon of Kosher salt, dried oregano, and freshly ground black pepper. This early seasoning sets the stage for delicious flavor throughout the dish. Make sure every piece is evenly coated for a taste that carries through every bite!

Step 2: Brown the chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a sturdy soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the butter melts and the oil shimmers, add the chicken pieces. Cook them just enough to get a golden brown crust on all sides—about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in juices and adds a lovely caramelized flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside; it will finish cooking in the soup later.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables and aromatics

Into the same pot, toss in diced onions and finely chopped celery. Sprinkle with a little salt, then stir occasionally until they turn soft and translucent. Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste. The tomato paste will dissolve, helping build a rich, concentrated flavor base for your soup. This combination is already starting to smell incredible!

Step 4: Add the broth and pesto

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, add the pesto, and toss in the Parmesan rind if using. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to mingle and develop deeply, making the broth wonderfully savory and complex.

Step 5: Cook the gnocchi and finish the soup

Return the browned chicken along with any juices back to the pot. Stir in your dried potato gnocchi, letting them cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until they rise to the surface, signaling tenderness. Now stir in the heavy cream to create that silky, rich texture. Add the vibrant baby spinach so it wilts gently, and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a burst of umami. At this point, taste your soup and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Presentation makes all the difference, and simple garnishes can elevate this soup to next-level deliciousness. A sprinkle of more freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty finish, while a few fresh basil leaves or a small dollop of pesto on top brings bright color and fresh herbaceous notes. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving adds a luxurious sheen.

Side Dishes

This Robust Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup carries enough substance to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks can turn it into a feast. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully, cutting through the creaminess with fresh acidity.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to soak up every bit of creamy goodness. Or ladle it over a shallow dish and garnish with crispy prosciutto or toasted pine nuts for extra texture. For dinner parties, small espresso cups or mini soup bowls turn this into an elegant starter that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. Just be aware that the gnocchi might absorb some broth over time, so you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to refresh it.

Freezing

Freezing the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is possible, though the texture of the cream and gnocchi can slightly change. If planning to freeze, store the soup without the cream and spinach, then add them fresh when reheating. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add fresh spinach or a handful of Parmesan at the end to revive the flavors and textures beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use pasta instead of gnocchi?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like orecchiette or ditalini work wonderfully. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as pasta can cook faster or slower than gnocchi.

Is this soup spicy?

This recipe focuses on savory, rich, and creamy flavors with no heat, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like some spice.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese version to keep it dairy-free while maintaining creaminess.

What can I do if I don’t have pesto on hand?

No worries! You can omit the pesto or stir in fresh chopped basil and a little olive oil as a quick fresh herb substitute.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Add extra gnocchi, beans, or diced potatoes for heftier servings. A side of bread also rounds out the meal perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you want to cozy up with something rich, comforting, and utterly delicious, this Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup deserves a spot on your dinner table. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate simple ingredients with bold flavors and creamy textures that invite everyone back for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the love!

Print