Description

There’s something magical about a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and heartwarming flavor into a single bowl. Marry Me Chicken Soup does just that. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken recipe, this soup captures the soul of that dish in a way that feels cozier, more inviting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Picture this: a creamy, rich broth swirling with the bold, tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and tender bites of chicken, all balanced by the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi. Each spoonful delivers the kind of satisfaction that makes you pause and savor the moment. It’s no wonder why this dish has gained a reputation for stealing hearts—it’s simply irresistible.

In my home, this soup has become synonymous with chilly nights, warm blankets, and gatherings around the table. It’s the kind of recipe you make when you want to say “I care,” without needing to say a word. Whether it’s the wholesome ingredients or the comforting familiarity of a creamy soup, there’s something undeniably special about this dish.

Ingredients

Scale

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 celery stalks, 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
1 Parmesan rind (optional but recommended)
16 oz (1 lb) potato gnocchi
½–1 cup heavy cream
5 oz fresh baby spinach
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by prepping the chicken. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, dried oregano, and black pepper. This seasoning not only flavors the chicken but also enhances the overall soup.

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes. You don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through at this stage—it will finish cooking in the broth. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Build a Flavorful Base

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and celery, stirring occasionally. Let them sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 6–8 minutes. This is the foundation of the soup’s flavor, so don’t rush this step!

Next, add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. The smell of the garlic hitting the hot butter is incredible and will fill your kitchen with a Tuscan-inspired aroma. Stir for 2–3 minutes until the garlic is just golden.

Step 3: Enhance with Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it deepens in color. This small step brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and enriches the broth’s flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits (also known as fond). These tiny bits pack a punch of flavor and are essential to the soup.

Add the pesto and, if you have it, a Parmesan rind. The rind will slowly melt into the soup, infusing it with a nutty, cheesy depth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi and Chicken

Return the chicken and its juices to the pot. Add the gnocchi, stirring gently to prevent them from sticking together. Let the soup simmer until the gnocchi float to the surface, about 3–4 minutes. This is a sure sign they’re cooked to perfection.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Stir in the heavy cream, starting with ½ cup and adjusting to your taste. This is where the soup transforms into something creamy and indulgent. Avoid boiling the soup once the cream is added, as it can cause the broth to curdle.

Add the spinach, folding it in until it wilts. The vibrant green adds a beautiful pop of color and a boost of nutrition.