Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite comforting recipes with you today—Marry Me Chicken Soup. Trust me, this bowl of deliciousness has enough warmth and flavor to make anyone fall head over heels! Just like a good rom-com, it’s got that perfect blend of comforting and exciting that I absolutely adore.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly evening at home. I was flipping through a dusty cookbook when I found the title that had me intrigued. As I made it for the first time, the lovely aroma filled the kitchen, and my family gathered to find out what was cooking. After the first bowl, the “I do”s were practically flying around the kitchen! Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also has a special place in my heart for those cozy nights in. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this recipe!
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Let me break down each ingredient in this delicious soup. Some of these might already be staples in your pantry, but I’ll give you the lowdown just in case!
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I like to use fresh, cubed chicken breast here, but you could certainly use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon of this golden liquid adds a wonderful flavor base to our soup. Use extra-virgin for a more robust taste.
Onion: A medium onion, diced, to bring sweetness and depth. You can always use a shallot if you’re feeling fancy!
Garlic: The aroma that wafts through your kitchen when you sauté garlic is pure magic. Make sure to use fresh garlic for that punchy flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs is essential. You can make your own or grab a jar from the store; it should include basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes (undrained) adds freshness and a little acidity to balance out the creaminess.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish. Homemade broth is lovely if you have it!
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! The creamy texture makes this soup indulgent and satisfying.
Fresh Spinach: Packed with vitamins, adding fresh spinach here gives the soup a vibrant color and a health boost.
Gnocchi: These little potato dumplings take the soup to the next level. They soak up all that creamy goodness and make every bite exciting!
Parmesan Cheese: A must-have! Grate some for cooking and keep some to sprinkle on top when serving.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together. Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Is Marry Me Chicken Soup Good for You?
I mean, it’s hard to call something with heavy cream a health food, right? But let’s break it down a little:
Chicken Breast: A lean protein that’s low in fat and a great source of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it keeps you feeling full!
Spinach: A powerhouse of nutrients! Rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants, spinach is a fantastic addition to this soup.
Heavy Cream: While it gives the soup richness, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap it for half-and-half or even coconut milk!
Diced Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins C and K, as well as potassium, these contribute to the soup’s overall nutrition.
So, enjoy this deliciousness every once in a while, but remember balance is key. Pairing it with a salad or some veggies can help lighten things up!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 bag (8 oz) fresh spinach
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry you are!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the pot, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cubed chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, then add in the gnocchi. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the gnocchi are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Soup-er Tips and Serving Suggestions
This soup is rich and creamy—perfect for a comforting meal! Here are a few ideas to enhance your experience:
– Pair it with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh salad for a full meal.
– Add red pepper flakes for a little heat! It’s a great way to spice things up (literally).
– You can also throw in other veggies like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
– If you have leftovers, they store beautifully in the fridge for a few days. Just be sure to reheat them gently.
I hope you’re as excited to make this Marry Me Chicken Soup as I am to share it! It’s such a delightful dish to prepare and enjoy with others. Try it out, and feel free to drop me a comment about your experience or any tweaks you made! Happy cooking!
