Name: Marry Me Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 small onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; ¼ cup basil pesto; 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi; 2 cups baby spinach; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 Parmesan rind (optional)

There are some recipes that feel like love at first bite. Marry Me Chicken Soup is one of them. Inspired by the classic Marry Me Chicken, this soup takes everything you love about that creamy, flavorful dish and transforms it into a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and pillowy potato gnocchi, all swimming in a rich, velvety broth, this soup is a guaranteed hit.

This dish is perfect for cozy nights at home, impressing guests, or making a comforting meal for your family. It is packed with rich flavors from Parmesan cheese, fragrant pesto, and a deep umami taste from tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. The combination of creamy textures and bold, savory flavors makes this soup truly irresistible.

If you’re new to making creamy soups, don’t worry! This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple, everyday ingredients. With a few tips and tricks, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving this for date night, meal prepping for the week, or making a big batch for a family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Marry Me Chicken Soup deserves a spot in your meal rotation. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to make. The whole dish comes together in about 45 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. Despite its simplicity, it tastes like something you’d order at a fancy Italian restaurant.

The flavor profile is what makes this soup so special. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy, slightly sweet depth, while pesto adds a fresh, herby brightness. The Parmesan cheese melts into the broth, creating a creamy, velvety texture that perfectly coats every bite. The addition of gnocchi makes the soup extra hearty, making it a full meal in a bowl.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on your preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you want a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.

This soup is also perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Plus, the flavors continue to develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

Health Benefits

While this soup is indulgent and creamy, it also has several nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle growth. If you opt for chicken breast, you’ll get a high-protein, low-fat meal that is satisfying and nutritious.

Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its heart-healthy properties. They also contain vitamins A and C, which help boost immunity and promote healthy skin.

Spinach adds a nutritional boost by providing iron, fiber, and vitamins K and C. It supports healthy digestion and helps improve overall energy levels.

Gnocchi, while often considered indulgent, provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can substitute it with cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles.

By using low-sodium chicken broth, you can control the salt content, making this soup a healthier option. The addition of pesto, Parmesan, and garlic not only enhances flavor but also provides small amounts of healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: ~450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 22g

Ingredients List

Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Aromatics & Flavor Base:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup basil pesto
Liquid Ingredients:
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Carbs & Greens:
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
Cheese & Garnish:
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional but recommended)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Sauté the chicken until golden brown on the outside. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Sauté the onions and celery until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Build the Flavor Base:
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
- Add the pesto and Parmesan rind (if using).
Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes.
Cook the Gnocchi & Chicken:
- Add the chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in the gnocchi and let them cook until they float to the surface (about 3-5 minutes).
Final Touches:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the baby spinach and let it wilt.
- Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

How to Serve

Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little spice.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure that your soup turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.

One of the biggest mistakes is overcooking the chicken. If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. To prevent this, remove the chicken once it is browned and let it finish cooking in the broth. If using rotisserie chicken, add it at the end to avoid drying it out.

Another common issue is skipping the Parmesan rind. While it may seem optional, the rind adds incredible depth and umami to the broth. If you don’t have a Parmesan rind, add extra grated Parmesan at the end to enhance the flavor.

Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi. Gnocchi should be tender but still hold their shape. They cook quickly, usually in just 3-5 minutes. If left in the soup for too long, they will become mushy and start to break apart. To avoid this, add them right before serving.

Some people make the mistake of not sautéing the aromatics properly. Cooking the onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes until they are soft and fragrant is key to developing a deep, rich flavor. Rushing this step can result in a soup that lacks complexity.

Using too much or too little seasoning can also affect the final dish. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Keep in mind that Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes add saltiness, so season carefully.

Finally, adding the cream too early can cause it to curdle. Always lower the heat before stirring in the cream to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. If the soup is boiling, the dairy may separate, leading to an unpleasant consistency.

Pro Tips

For the best Marry Me Chicken Soup, a few expert tricks can take the dish from good to absolutely amazing. First, use homemade chicken broth if possible. While store-bought broth works well, a homemade version adds a depth of flavor that can’t be beaten. If using store-bought, go for low-sodium broth so you have better control over the seasoning.

If you want extra depth of flavor, toast the gnocchi in a dry pan before adding them to the soup. This gives them a slightly crispy texture and prevents them from becoming too soft. Alternatively, you can swap out the gnocchi for small pasta like orzo or ditalini if you prefer a different texture.

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well, but it will slightly change the flavor profile.

To get the best texture from the chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces before cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb more of the delicious broth. If you’re in a hurry, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and still provides excellent flavor.

To make the soup even more flavorful, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together and enhances the overall taste. If you have leftovers, the flavors will deepen even more overnight, making this soup even better the next day.

For added nutrition, don’t skip the spinach or greens. If you’re not a fan of spinach, swap it out for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard. These greens add vitamins and fiber without overwhelming the soup’s flavor.

Finally, always garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving. This adds a final touch of richness and makes the dish look as amazing as it tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, you can shred it and add it at the end of cooking. Since it’s already cooked, it just needs to warm up in the soup.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes, but with some considerations. Dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen. To prevent this, freeze the soup before adding the cream and gnocchi. When reheating, add fresh cream and cook the gnocchi right before serving.

What can I use instead of gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi, you can use small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or even tortellini. If you prefer a low-carb version, try using cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of comfort that brings warmth, richness, and satisfaction with every bite. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and flavorful mix of sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and Parmesan create a truly irresistible dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a romantic meal, or just to treat yourself, this soup is guaranteed to be a favorite.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to fit your dietary needs, adjust the level of creaminess, and even switch up the protein or greens based on what you have on hand. No matter how you make it, the key is using fresh ingredients and layering the flavors for a rich and delicious result.

If you’ve never made a creamy chicken soup before, don’t be intimidated! This recipe is beginner-friendly and easy to follow. By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll end up with a soup that tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant.

Now it’s time to grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! If you make this Marry Me Chicken Soup, let me know in the comments how you liked it. Feel free to share your own variations or serving ideas!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it for later, share it with friends, or tag me on social media with your delicious creations. I can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own! Happy cooking!