Marry Me Chicken Soup

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Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of heavy cream with the tangy burst of sun-dried tomatoes, savory pesto, and tender chicken. The addition of pillowy potato gnocchi creates a hearty and filling dish that warms you from the inside out. Each bite offers a balanced mix of textures and flavors, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, this soup brings the flavors of Italy to your table with minimal effort. The recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to substitute vegetables or add your own twist. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or enjoying it on its own, Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Full Recipe:

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 dried potato gnocchi
½ – 1 cup heavy cream
5 oz fresh baby spinach
½ cup Parmesan, grated

Directions:

Season the chicken with 1 tsp Kosher salt, oregano, and black pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot, then brown the chicken on all sides for 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion and celery with the remaining salt until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
Pour in the chicken broth and add pesto and Parmesan rind (if using). Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Return the chicken to the pot, then stir in gnocchi. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats.
Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 549 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Background and Origin:

The concept of “Marry Me” dishes typically refers to recipes so delicious that they could metaphorically inspire a marriage proposal. The original Marry Me Chicken recipe features a rich, creamy sauce with flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan that are reminiscent of Tuscan cooking. Inspired by that, the Marry Me Chicken Soup takes those flavors and transforms them into a cozy, hearty soup version, perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings.

Recipe Customization Ideas:

One of the great things about this Marry Me Chicken Soup is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways you can easily adjust the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability:

Vegetarian Version: Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and gnocchi will still provide rich, savory flavors.
Gluten-Free: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can easily swap the potato gnocchi for gluten-free gnocchi or use small gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still maintains a creamy texture. You can also skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve this rich, creamy soup with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the velvety broth.
Pair it with a light salad, such as an arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the soup.
For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy base and the tang of the sun-dried tomatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:

This soup can easily be made ahead for a meal prep or gathering. Follow these tips for best results:

Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up until adding the gnocchi and cream. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove, then add the gnocchi, spinach, and cream just before serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just note that the gnocchi may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a little extra liquid (such as broth or water) when reheating.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the heavy cream may cause the soup to separate when thawed. If you plan to freeze, consider making the soup without the cream and adding it only when you reheat.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 549 kcal
Protein: 29g
Fat: 32g (Saturated Fat: 15g)
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 1267mg
Potassium: 905mg
Calcium: 217mg
Iron: 5mg

Recipe Inspiration:

This Marry Me Chicken Soup draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, incorporating classic Tuscan ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and pesto. The gnocchi adds a unique twist, making this soup more filling and hearty than your average chicken soup. It’s a complete meal in one pot, offering both protein and vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth.

Why This Recipe Works:

Pesto adds a burst of freshness and a nutty richness, pairing beautifully with the creamy base and chicken.
Sun-dried tomatoes introduce a slightly sweet, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the soup, creating a balanced dish.
Spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also gives the soup a vibrant pop of color.
Gnocchi brings a comforting, pillowy texture that complements the tender chicken and creamy broth, making the soup feel more substantial.

Popular Variations:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Instead of gnocchi, you can use your favorite pasta, such as penne or orecchiette, to make a more traditional pasta dish.
Marry Me Salmon Soup: Swap out the chicken for salmon fillets, which pairs beautifully with the sun-dried tomatoes and pesto. This version adds a unique seafood twist to the dish.

Story Behind “Marry Me” Recipes:

The name “Marry Me” has been popularized in recent years to refer to dishes that are so delicious, they could inspire a marriage proposal! The original Marry Me Chicken recipe became viral due to its rich, creamy texture and irresistible flavors. It traditionally involves chicken breasts cooked in a creamy Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, reminiscent of flavors found in Tuscany. The soup version draws on these same ingredients but offers a heartwarming, cozy take that’s perfect for cold days or romantic dinners at home.

The Magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup:

This soup is a winning combination of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors, designed to impress both your family and guests. The richness of the heavy cream and Parmesan is perfectly balanced by the bright acidity of sun-dried tomatoes and the herbaceous freshness of pesto. The addition of potato gnocchi gives the soup substance, turning it into a hearty one-bowl meal that’s both filling and comforting.

Ingredients Breakdown:

Chicken Breasts: A lean protein source that pairs well with the creamy sauce. You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tomatoes are dried to concentrate their sweetness and tanginess, which adds depth to the soup’s flavor. You can find them packed in oil or dry in bags.
Pesto: This bright and fresh sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the creamy base.
Potato Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings provide a hearty base that makes the soup a full meal. You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, or try homemade gnocchi for an extra special touch.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese: The cream and Parmesan create the soup’s rich, luxurious base, giving it a velvety texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream.
Spinach: Adding spinach not only boosts the nutritional content but also adds color and freshness to the soup. You could also substitute kale, Swiss chard, or arugula if you prefer.

Nutritional Benefits:

While this soup is indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits:

High Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Vitamins: Spinach is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate. The sun-dried tomatoes also offer a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Comfort Food with Balance: Despite being creamy, the inclusion of fresh vegetables and lean meat makes this a balanced meal. You can further lighten the soup by using less cream or opting for a dairy-free version with coconut milk.

Perfect for Special Occasions and Weeknight Dinners:

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions, but it’s also an easy dish to whip up on a busy weeknight. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 50 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold evening or inviting guests over for dinner, this soup makes a lasting impression.

Serving and Presentation Tips:

For a Rustic Presentation: Serve the soup in large, shallow bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil on top gives the dish a beautiful, glossy finish.
Sides to Serve: Pair this soup with crusty bread for dipping, or garlic bread to mop up the rich, creamy broth. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy texture of the soup without overpowering its flavors. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works well.

Expert Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup:

Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated versions may not melt as smoothly and can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that alter the texture.
Don’t Skip the Parmesan Rind: Adding a Parmesan rind to the broth adds a subtle, nutty flavor that infuses the soup as it simmers. You can freeze Parmesan rinds for future use in soups and stews.
Control the Thickness: If you like a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the broth. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter consistency, you can add an extra cup of broth or water.

Creative Variations and Add-Ins:

Herb Variations: Swap the pesto for a basil, parsley, or even arugula pesto for a slight change in flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for more depth.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to bulk up the soup with extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even butternut squash.
Protein Variations: While chicken is a classic choice, you can easily swap it for shrimp or salmon for a seafood version, or even try turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

A Dish That Fits All Seasons:

The beauty of this Marry Me Chicken Soup is that it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round. In the colder months, it’s a comforting bowl of warmth, perfect for snuggling up with by the fire. During the spring or summer, the brightness of the pesto and sun-dried tomatoes keeps the dish light enough to enjoy without feeling too heavy.

How to Make It Your Own:

Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give the soup an extra kick.
Make It Vegan: If you’re catering to vegan friends or family, simply leave out the chicken and dairy. Use vegetable broth, replace the cream with coconut milk, and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Results: Despite its luxurious taste, this soup is made with everyday ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.
One-Pot Wonder: You only need one pot to make this soup, which means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors of this soup get even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Conclusion:

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors and hearty ingredients like tender chicken, gnocchi, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to impress and become a go-to comfort dish. Enjoy it with crusty bread and a glass of wine for the ultimate comforting meal!