Name: Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
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, can use more if desired); ½ cup Parmesan, grated

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, let me introduce you to the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. This delightful bowl of comfort combines tender chicken, velvety cream, and the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto to create a feast for your senses. It’s rich but not overwhelming, creamy yet fresh, and somehow so satisfyingly indulgent that it might just become your new go-to comfort food. This recipe is not just a soup; it’s a celebration in every spoonful that you’ll want to share (or not!).

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, whether it’s building layers of savory flavor, adding color, or enhancing the texture to create that perfect, creamy finish. They’re simple and accessible but come together effortlessly to bring this dish to life.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): The star protein, cubed for tender bites that soak up all the delicious broth.
Kosher salt (1½ tsp, divided): Enhances all flavors beautifully and seasons both the meat and soup in stages.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): Adds a subtle herbal earthiness that complements the chicken wonderfully.
Freshly ground black pepper (¼ tsp): Provides a gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 Tbsp): For browning the chicken and cooking the aromatics, lending a fruity base.
Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp): Brings richness and helps meld the flavors with a silky texture.
Medium sweet onion, diced (1): Offers sweetness and depth when sautéed to translucent perfection.
Celery stalks, finely chopped (2): Adds crispness and mild aromatic flavor to the soup base.
Sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (½ cup): Delivers bursts of tangy, slightly sweet complexity.
Garlic cloves, finely chopped (4): Infuses the soup with its unmistakable warmth and aroma.
Tomato paste (2 Tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor and enriches the broth’s color and body.
Low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid that ties everything together and keeps the soup light yet hearty.
Pesto (2 Tbsp): A vibrant punch of basil, garlic, and pine nuts to elevate the soup’s freshness.
Parmesan rind (optional): Adds a subtle umami note and depth as it simmers.
Dried potato gnocchi (16 oz): Provides pillowy bites that soak up the creamy broth perfectly.
Heavy cream (½ – 1 cup): The magical ingredient that delivers creaminess and luxury to every spoonful.
Fresh baby spinach (5 oz): Adds vibrant color and a leafy freshness that balances the richness.
Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Finishing touch that melts into the soup for cheesy indulgence.

How to Make Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into perfect one-inch pieces; this size ensures quick, even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Toss them with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, dried oregano, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning is your first flavor boost, infusing the chicken with an herby, savory kick that will carry through the soup.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter together in your soup pot or Dutch oven until shimmering and melted. Carefully add the seasoned chicken and cook it until browned on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in juices and adds those irresistible caramelized notes that make every bite memorable. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate — it will finish cooking perfectly in the simmering soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onion and celery with a bit of kosher salt. As they soften and become translucent, the sweetness from the onion and the fresh, herbal crunch from celery will build a deeply flavorful base. Then stir in sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste. These ingredients add a lovely tangy richness and a touch of umami, elevating the broth to new heights.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with pesto and, if you have it, a Parmesan rind for additional depth. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to marry beautifully, softening the tomatoes and garlic into the broth for a rich, comforting base.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi and Return Chicken

Slide the browned chicken back into the pot with any juices from the plate. Stir in the dried gnocchi and cook until they float to the top and become tender, typically around 3 to 5 minutes. The gnocchi absorb some of the broth, adding delightful chewiness that makes this soup so uniquely satisfying.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Finish with Greens and Cheese

To make this the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup it’s meant to be, gently stir in the heavy cream and baby spinach. The cream softens and thickens the soup while the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant color and a subtle earthiness. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese for that irresistible melty cheesy goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning as you like — this is your moment to make it truly perfect.

How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves on top add a beautiful visual pop plus an extra hit of flavor. For those who love a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders and brightens each spoonful. Drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil for shimmer and richness.

Side Dishes

Serve your soup with rustic crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for soaking up the creamy broth. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the soup without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, ladle the soup into wide rustic bowls and top with distinctive garnishes like toasted pine nuts or crispy pancetta bits. You could also serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests or turn a meal into a fun, interactive experience. Adding a swirl of pesto or cream on the surface creates a beautiful marbled effect that’s almost too pretty to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup to room temperature within two hours, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place cooled soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep nicely for up to 3 months. For best results, add fresh spinach just before serving when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the soup’s texture silky and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and remain moist during cooking. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for gnocchi if I can’t find it?

If potato gnocchi isn’t available, small pasta shapes like orecchiette or mini shells make great alternatives and will still complement the soup’s texture.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or an unsweetened plant-based cream, and omit the Parmesan rind and cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How spicy is this soup? Can I adjust the heat?

This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is mild by default but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste at the end if you like some heat.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Though this recipe is designed for stovetop preparation to get the best texture for chicken and gnocchi, you can adapt it for slow cooker use by browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics first, then cooking everything low and slow without the gnocchi, adding those later just before serving.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup that feels both luxurious and comforting in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and leaves everyone feeling warm and satisfied. I encourage you to give it a try — once you do, you might just find yourself planning your next meal around it!

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 6 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and gnocchi in a creamy broth with fresh spinach and Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines savory, tangy, and creamy elements to delight your taste buds.

Instructions

Season the chicken: Place the cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Season with 1 tsp Kosher salt, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything well to evenly coat the chicken pieces.
Brown the chicken: Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp unsalted butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the fat is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook it, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. The chicken won’t be fully cooked yet as it will finish cooking in the soup. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the browned chicken to a plate.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced sweet onion and finely chopped celery. Sprinkle with ½ tsp Kosher salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are translucent and softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste. Stir well, breaking up the tomato paste with a spatula so it dissolves evenly into the mixture.
Add the broth: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with 2 Tbsp pesto and add the Parmesan rind if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the gnocchi: Return the browned chicken pieces and any accumulated juices to the pot. Stir in the dried potato gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface and is tender when bitten.
Add cream and greens: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream (or up to 1 cup for a richer soup), then add the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the spinach wilt slightly and the cheese melt into the broth. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more Kosher salt or black pepper if needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor.

Notes

You can substitute gnocchi with small pasta like orecchiette or tortellini if preferred.
The Parmesan rind adds great depth of flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
Adjust the amount of heavy cream to achieve your desired soup richness.
Feel free to add more spinach or other greens to increase nutrition and color.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt levels in the soup.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American