Name: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup That Will Steal Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (Can substitute with pulled rotisserie chicken or chicken thighs.); 1.5 tsp Kosher salt (Adjust based on personal taste.); 1 tsp dried oregano (Can use fresh oregano if available.); 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper (Try white pepper for a milder kick.); 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (Vegetable oil works as a fine substitute.); 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (Use margarine for a dairy-free option.); 1 medium sweet onion, diced (Yellow onions or shallots are good alternatives.); 2 sticks celery, finely chopped (Feel free to omit for a simpler soup.); 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (Use oil-packed or dry ones (soaking dry ones is recommended).); 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped (Adds essential aroma and depth.); 2 Tbsp tomato paste (Thickens and enriches the soup.); 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (Homemade or store-bought works.); 2 Tbsp pesto (Use homemade or store-bought.); 1 piece Parmesan rind (Optional; can be omitted or replaced with grated Parmesan.); 16 oz dried potato gnocchi (Swap for small pasta like orecchiette if preferred.); 0.5 - 1 cup heavy cream (Half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.); 5 oz fresh baby spinach (Can substitute with kale or omit.); 0.5 cup grated Parmesan (Can omit for a dairy-free finish.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes transported me to an Italian trattoria. That’s when I knew I’d stumbled upon a comforting gem—my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. With its luxurious texture, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach, this dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any table. Not only can it be whipped up in under an hour, making it the perfect answer to busy weeknights, but it also doubles as a showstopper for impressing guests at your next dinner party. Curious about how to create this delectable bowl of happiness? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Elevated Comfort: This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup transforms humble ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, offering a taste experience like no other.
Time-Saver: With all the vibrant flavors ready in under an hour, it’s the ideal option for busy weeknights or those unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends alike with this one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and pillowy gnocchi; it’s sure to steal hearts.
Versatile Base: Tailor it to your preference by swapping spinach for kale or adding a hint of spice with red pepper flakes—culinary creativity is welcome!
Pair it with a warm baguette or serve it alongside a glass of Chardonnay to elevate your dining experience even further!

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients

• To bring joy and warmth to your kitchen, here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful creamy chicken soup!

For the Soup Base

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish; can substitute with pulled rotisserie chicken or chicken thighs for convenience.
1½ tsp Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the soup’s flavor; adjust this based on your personal taste.
1 tsp dried oregano – Adds a lovely herbaceous note; you can switch this out for fresh oregano if you have it on hand.
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper – A dash of seasoning; try white pepper for a milder kick.

For Cooking

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Great for sautéing the chicken; vegetable oil works as a fine substitute.
2 Tbsp unsalted butter – Delivers a rich flavor; use margarine for a dairy-free option if needed.
1 medium sweet onion, diced – Provides a flavorful base; yellow onions or shallots are good alternatives.
2 sticks celery, finely chopped – Gives crunch and enhances flavors; feel free to omit for a simpler soup.

For Flavor and Texture

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped – Infuses the soup with a tangy richness; use oil-packed or dry ones (soaking dry ones is recommended).
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped – Adds essential aroma and depth to the dish.
2 Tbsp tomato paste – Thickens and enriches the soup with its natural sweetness.
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Acts as the soup’s comforting liquid base; homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.
2 Tbsp pesto – Elevates the flavor with fresh, herby notes; use homemade or store-bought depending on your convenience.
1 Parmesan rind (optional) – A secret ingredient for umami richness; can be omitted or replaced with grated Parmesan.

For the Heartiness

16 oz (1 lb) dried potato gnocchi – Creates a hearty texture; swap for small pasta like orecchiette if preferred.
½ – 1 cup heavy cream – Offers creaminess to the soup; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
5 oz fresh baby spinach – Adds nutrition and color; can substitute with kale or omit entirely if desired.
½ cup grated Parmesan – For garnish and extra flavor; can omit for a dairy-free finish.

Whether you’re enhancing your weeknight dining or impressing guests, these Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup ingredients come together to create a bowl of pure love! Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful aroma that fills your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and tossing them in a bowl with 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning, allowing it to absorb flavor while you prep the rest of the ingredients for your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to foam, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate; this will enhance the soup’s flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, without cleaning it, add the diced sweet onion and finely chopped celery. Sauté for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in ½ cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is well combined and aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and then add 2 tablespoons of pesto and the optional Parmesan rind for added depth. Stir everything together and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Return the browned chicken to the pot and stir in 16 ounces of dried potato gnocchi. Allow the mixture to cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they’re tender and cooked through. This hearty addition brings a comforting texture to your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, making it even more satisfying.

Step 6: Finish with Cream
Once the gnocchi is ready, lower the heat and stir in ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 5 ounces of fresh baby spinach and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

Note: Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change after freezing, but the flavor will still be delightful in your creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup!

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this delightful soup, infusing it with flavors that speak to your palate!

Rotisserie Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It saves time while still delivering delicious flavors.
Kale Swap: Substitute fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier texture. It adds a lovely color and boosts the nutritional profile!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce as you simmer. It transforms the soup into a savory sensation!
Gluten-Free Option: Replace gnocchi with gluten-free pasta or rice for a similar comforting feel. It ensures everyone at your table can enjoy this luscious dish.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, for an aromatic touch. They add a refreshing twist and elevate the overall depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or other legumes. Incorporating more vegetables will keep it hearty and satisfying, similar to a comforting vegetable soup.

Who could resist trying a delicious treat like Santa Chicken Skillet or a tempting dish like Broccoli Chicken Penne? The possibilities are endless as you infuse your own preferences into this base recipe!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for saving time during your busy week! You can first season and brown the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and prevent drying out. The aromatics (onion, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste) can also be sautéed and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure they cool down before storage. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine the prepped ingredients in the pot, add the chicken broth, and continue cooking as directed. Finish off with cream and spinach for a delicious meal that feels freshly made, with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Prepare to take your dining experience to a whole new level with these delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement the heavenly flavors of this creamy chicken soup.

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, a freshly baked baguette adds a delightful crunch and soaks up the rich broth beautifully.
Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the soup.
Garlic Bread Sticks: Savory and buttery, these breadsticks boast a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy textures of your chicken soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables bring a burst of color and earthy flavors to the table, enhancing the soup’s flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and rich, these mashed potatoes will give each spoonful of soup an indulgent twist that nobody can resist!
Chardonnay White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay beautifully complements the flavors, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Lemon Tart: For dessert, a tangy lemon tart provides a refreshing finish that cleanses the palate after the hearty soup.

Pair these delightful options with your creamy Marry Me chicken soup, and prepare for a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Homemade Broth: For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. Low-sodium store-bought options are fine for convenience but may lack depth.
Parmesan Rind: Adding a Parmesan rind enhances umami. If you’re not using it, consider incorporating freshly grated Parmesan instead for a similar effect.
Mind the Heat: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning or sticking while sautéing. Adjust the heat as necessary when adding ingredients to ensure a gentle simmer.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving! You may wish to add a pinch more salt or pepper for your perfect creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Toppings Galore: Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil for added flavor and presentation. This makes a beautiful finish to your comforting bowl!

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep or opt for chicken thighs, which will add more flavor to the soup. If you prefer plant-based options, try using mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

How should I store leftovers and for how long?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure the soup is at room temperature before sealing it—this helps to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.

Can I freeze Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup? How do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze this creamy delight! Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat over medium heat on the stovetop. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

What if I have leftover ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or gnocchi?
Don’t worry if you have extra! Sun-dried tomatoes can be added to salads, pasta, or while cooking other soups. As for leftover gnocchi, they make a delightful addition to any Italian-inspired dish. Just keep them in the fridge and use within a week.

Is this soup suitable for pets or those with allergies?
While the ingredients in Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup are delicious for humans, they may not be suitable for pets, especially due to seasonings and dairy. If you have allergies, always check the specific ingredients you use, especially for gluten (if substituting gnocchi) or dairy (if making it lactose-free). Adjust the recipe to cater to dietary needs as needed.

How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding more heavy cream or using a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold broth) to thicken it up. For a lighter version, reduce the cream or even replace it partially with more broth. Enjoy customising your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup to your taste!