Name: Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 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, more if desired); ½ cup Parmesan, grated

I absolutely adore this Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe because it’s the perfect hug-in-a-bowl meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. Combining tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, creamy gnocchi, and bright spinach, it creates this incredible harmony of textures and tastes that never fails to impress me. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why it’s my go-to recipe whenever I want something satisfying, rich, and easy to prepare, yet feels like a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

What really stands out to me about this recipe is its amazingly balanced flavor profile. The sun-dried tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and tang that pairs beautifully with the earthy pesto and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese. The creamy broth envelops each ingredient perfectly, giving you that decadent feel without being overly heavy. Plus, the tender chunks of chicken and pillowy gnocchi provide a wonderful variety of textures that keep every spoonful interesting and delightful.

From my experience, one of the best parts is how straightforward this soup is to make! I never feel overwhelmed by complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Most of the components are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store. This makes it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at casual gatherings. Honestly, whether I’m whipping it up for a cozy family night or a laid-back party, it always feels like something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white pot filled with bubbling golden brown soup that has visible small chunks of onions and herbs scattered throughout. On the top surface, there are several soft, pale yellow gnocchi pieces floating, contrasting against the darker broth. The soup has a slightly oily texture with bubbles and steam rising, showing it is hot and freshly cooked. The pot handles are visible on the sides and it is placed on a clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering the soup’s rich flavor, creamy texture, and appealing color. I love how the combination of fresh and pantry-friendly items makes this soup approachable yet stunning.

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for tender protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
1½ tsp Kosher salt (divided): Essential for seasoning every layer and bringing out the natural tastes.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a wonderful herbaceous aroma and warmth.
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Provides a gentle, peppery kick without overpowering.
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken and sparking flavor.
2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Contributes richness to the sauté and the final broth.
1 medium sweet onion (diced): Softens into a sweet base for the soup’s savory notes.
2 sticks celery (finely chopped): Adds crunch and fresh herbal undertones.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped): Offers a burst of concentrated tang and color.
4 cloves garlic (finely chopped): Brings that irresistible savory depth.
2 Tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The perfect foundation that’s both flavorful and light.
2 Tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade): Adds herbaceous brightness and richness.
1 Parmesan rind (optional): A secret ingredient that infuses the soup with umami complexity.
16 oz dried potato gnocchi: The delightful, pillowy pasta that makes this soup comforting and filling.
½ – 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxuriously creamy texture, adjustable to your preference.
5 oz fresh baby spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a gentle earthiness.
½ cup Parmesan (grated): Gives the final touch of savory cheese that ties everything together.

Directions

Step 1: Season the chicken by placing the cubed pieces in a large mixing bowl, then toss with 1 teaspoon of Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the fat is shimmering and hot, add the chicken pieces. Brown them on all sides, stirring occasionally, until they develop a nice golden crust, about 4-5 minutes. The chicken will finish cooking in the soup later. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: In the same pot, add the diced sweet onion and chopped celery. Season with ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, then cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are translucent and softened, roughly 3-5 minutes. Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and tomato paste. Use a spatula to break up the tomato paste and help it dissolve evenly into the mixture.

Step 4: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and stir in 2 tablespoons of pesto along with the Parmesan rind if you’re using it. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 10-15 minutes so all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Return the browned chicken, along with any juices left on the plate, to the pot. Stir in the dried potato gnocchi. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi begin to float to the top and are tender to the bite.

Step 6: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, adding up to 1 cup if you like your soup extra creamy. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more Kosher salt or black pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately, offering extra Parmesan on the side for anyone who wants a cheesy finish!

Servings and Timing

This Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe generously serves 6 people, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or sharing with friends. The prep time is about 10-15 minutes since the chopping is straightforward, while the total cook time is roughly 35-40 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish, which fits perfectly into a cozy weeknight routine. There is no resting or cooling time required, so you can dive right in once it’s ready.

How to Serve This Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy orange soup, holding round gnocchi pieces floating on top, several chunks of light beige chicken, and dark green spinach leaves. The soup also has small bits of red tomatoes and onions throughout, with a sprinkling of grated white cheese and cracked black pepper on the surface. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, and in the background, another similar white bowl is partially visible. The bowls are placed on a white marbled surface with a couple of small white dishes holding grated cheese and black pepper beside them, along with a striped cloth on the lower right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this soup, I love pairing it with warm, crusty bread or garlic focaccia to soak up every bit of that luscious broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice fresh contrast that keeps the whole meal balanced. For garnishing, I like adding an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil or parsley leaves for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness that feels inviting.

One of my favorite beverage pairings is a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creaminess without overwhelming the delicate herbal notes. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or iced herbal tea works beautifully to refresh the palate. This soup is absolutely perfect for weeknight dinners when I want comfort without fuss, but it also shines at casual gatherings where I want to impress with minimal effort.

I always serve the soup piping hot since the creaminess and chicken flavors taste best warm. For plating, a generous ladle into deep bowls feels just right, and it’s hearty enough to be a full meal on its own or paired with light sides. Portion-wise, the gnocchi and chicken give just the right amount of substance so no one leaves hungry.

Variations

I’ve often experimented with different twists on this recipe, and it lends itself wonderfully to customization. For example, if you want to mix up the protein, turkey or even diced pork can be delicious substitutes for chicken. For a vegetarian version, swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth and using plant-based gnocchi works well—though you’ll want to add extra veggies or beans for protein. To keep it vegan, I recommend using a vegan cream substitute and omitting the Parmesan or replacing it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.

Flavor-wise, I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want a little heat or toss in roasted mushrooms for an earthier touch. Some days, I swap the gnocchi for small pasta shapes like orzo or orecchiette, which absorb the broth nicely but provide a different texture. If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, adding it at the end just to warm through instead of browning from scratch.

Another fun method is using an Instant Pot or slow cooker to simmer the soup, which really melds flavors over several hours. I usually add the cream and spinach at the last minute for freshness. No matter how you tweak it, this recipe always feels like a comforting, rich meal that’s easy to make your own.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe in airtight containers to keep its flavor and freshness intact. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best for me because they don’t absorb odors and are microwave-safe. The soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes quite well, which is fantastic when you want to make a big batch ahead of time. I recommend freezing it without the cream and spinach because these ingredients don’t always retain their texture after thawing. Instead, you can add fresh spinach and cream when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, move the soup to the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, warm the soup slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Avoid boiling as it can change the texture. Once heated through, stir in fresh spinach and a splash more cream if needed to restore richness and color. Adding a little extra grated Parmesan at this stage also helps revive the flavor and bring everything back to life. This method always brings me close to that first-batch deliciousness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh for this soup?

Absolutely! If you use frozen chicken breasts, be sure to fully thaw them before cutting into pieces and seasoning. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the seasonings properly. Alternatively, you can poach or bake the chicken separately and add it to the soup later.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil and replacing heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream. For the Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast is a great vegan-friendly option that adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What can I use if I can’t find gnocchi?

If gnocchi isn’t available, small pasta shapes like orecchiette, mini shells, or even orzo work beautifully as a substitute. They cook in a similar amount of time and absorb the broth nicely, providing that comforting, starchy bite.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and freeze it?

Definitely! Just remember to hold off on adding the cream and spinach until you reheat the soup to maintain the best texture and freshness. Freeze in portioned containers for easy meal prep, and thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently.

What sides would you recommend serving with this soup?

I love serving this soup with crusty bread, a light green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more elegant meal, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus pairs wonderfully and elevates the whole experience. The options are endless, and I find that simple, fresh sides allow the soup’s rich flavors to shine.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those cozy meals that feels special but is so easy to make and share with the people you love. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, richness, and warmth—exactly what I look for in a dish that makes me feel nourished and happy. Enjoy cooking it as much as I do!