Introduction to Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
The delightful story behind “Marry Me” chicken soup
Have you ever wondered why some recipes come with such an endearing name? Enter Marry Me Chicken Soup—a dish so rich and creamy, it might just sweep someone off their feet! This delightful soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream base, sure to warm even the coldest of nights.
The origins of this beloved dish often vary from kitchen to kitchen, but one thing remains consistent: the first time someone tastes it, they just might find themselves daydreaming about future dinner dates. Its name alone sparks curiosity and excitement, making it an invite to dinner worth accepting.
If you’re eager to learn how to whip up your own pot of this rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup, you're in the right place. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savored solo while binge-watching your favorite show on a chilly evening. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress any guest or significant other! For tips on preparing homemade chicken broth, check out this guide to making low-sodium chicken broth. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Essential ingredients for a creamy base
To achieve that velvety richness in your Marry Me Chicken Soup, the foundation is vital. Gather heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which lend a luxurious texture and depth. Start with 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender chunks of protein, seasoned perfectly with Kosher salt and black pepper. The aromatic support comes from a sweet onion, celery, and fragrant garlic, sautéed until soft to build layers of flavor.
Special touch: sun-dried tomatoes and pesto
What elevates this rich creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup are the unexpected flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto. Adding half a cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes brings a burst of tanginess that pairs perfectly with the creamy base. Just a couple of tablespoons of store-bought or homemade pesto provide an aromatic herbaceous note that will make your taste buds dance. Trust us; these special touches will pull you in for another bowl!
For more great ingredient ideas, check out this post on flavorful soups.
Step-by-step preparation of Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Season the chicken
To kick off your culinary adventure with this rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup, start by placing 1 lb of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl. Season the pieces liberally with 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Give it a good toss to ensure every piece is coated in those wonderful seasonings. This step may seem simple, but it sets the foundation for flavorful chicken throughout your dish.
Brown the chicken to enhance flavor
Next up, it's time to enhance those flavors even further! Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your seasoned chicken to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is beautifully browned on all sides. Don’t worry about fully cooking it; it will continue to cook in the soup later! Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate and let those juices mingle.
Sauté the aromatics for that irresistible aroma
Now for the magic touch! In the same pot, add 1 medium diced sweet onion and 2 finely chopped celery sticks. Season with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add in ½ cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. This trio will fill your kitchen with an aroma that will make your heart skip a beat—it's truly irresistible!
Add the broth and bring it to life
Ready for some liquid magic? Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by 2 tablespoons of pesto and a Parmesan rind if you have it. Bring this glorious concoction to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This simmering process allows all those flavors to meld together, creating a depth that’s hard to resist.
Cook the gnocchi to perfection
While the soup is doing its thing, let’s get your gnocchi ready! Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with any juices that have collected on the plate, and stir in 16 oz of dried potato gnocchi. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until they rise to the surface, signaling they’re ready and tender. Can you see it already? Your rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup is almost complete!
Stir in the creamy goodness
Finally, the moment of lusciousness has arrived! Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream (or up to 1 cup if you really want to go all out), 5 oz of fresh baby spinach, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—a little more salt or pepper can elevate your flavors just right. Serve this comforting masterpiece immediately, topped with additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy, and watch how this soup could just make someone fall in love!
For more guidance on integrating ingredients like low-sodium chicken broth or perfecting your creamy soups, check out resources like Well Seasoned Studio for additional tips and tricks!
Variations on Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Spinach Alternatives for Extra Nutrition
While baby spinach adds a lovely touch, consider mixing in other greens for a nutritional boost. Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can provide a different flavor profile while upping the nutrients you’ll enjoy in your rich, creamy marry me chicken soup. Just chop them finely, and toss them in toward the end of cooking for that perfect tender bite.
Adding Other Vegetables for a Twist
Want to shake things up? Incorporate vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers. These can add vibrant colors and extra textures to your soup. For a hearty option, try adding diced sweet potatoes or even some corn for a touch of sweetness! Experimenting with fresh or frozen veggies is sure to elevate your favorite rich, creamy marry me chicken soup to new heights and keep things exciting.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Importance of Using Low-Sodium Broth
When crafting your rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup, opting for low-sodium broth is essential. This choice allows you to control the saltiness of your dish while letting the flavorful ingredients shine. Too much salt can easily overpower the delicate balance of flavors. Alternatively, homemade low-sodium chicken broth can add a personal touch to the soup. You'll find recipes online that guide you in creating a broth tailored to your taste!
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Professionals
For those balancing a hectic lifestyle, this soup is your friend! You can prepare everything up until adding the gnocchi and cream ahead of time. Store the soup base in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to eat, then add the remaining ingredients. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight! With a little planning, enjoying a gourmet meal after a long day is entirely achievable.
Serving suggestions for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Best pairings with crusty bread
When it comes to enjoying your rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup, a slice of warm, crusty bread is irreplaceable. The satisfying crunch of a fresh baguette or sourdough complements the velvety texture of the soup perfectly. Consider dipping it into the bowl to soak up those delicious flavors. For an added twist, spread some herbed butter on your bread for an extra flavor boost!
Serving garnishes to elevate presentation
Make your soup pop with simple garnishes! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a vibrant touch, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil provides a glossy finish. For a dash of color and nutrition, consider adding a few leaves of fresh baby spinach right before serving. If you're feeling fancy, a light dusting of grated Parmesan will elevate the bowl, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Time Breakdown for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Preparation time
Get ready to bring this mouthwatering dish to life! You'll need about 10 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients. Think of it as setting the stage for culinary success!
Cooking time
Now for the fun part! The cooking process takes around 30-35 minutes, allowing you to sip on your favorite drink (think herbal tea or sparkling water) while the rich, creamy flavors of your Marry Me Chicken Soup come together beautifully.
Total time
All in, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to indulge in this delightful soup. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones!
Nutritional Facts for Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Calories per serving
This delightful Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup serves up a hearty helping of flavor and comfort at approximately 549 calories per serving. That makes it a satisfying choice for any meal, whether you’re easing into a cozy night or entertaining friends.
Key nutrients provided
Every bowl is brimming with essential nutrients:
- Protein: 29g to fuel your day
- Fat: 32g, contributing to that luscious creaminess
- Carbohydrates: 40g give you plenty of energy
- Fiber: 4g to help with digestion
Plus, it’s rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron, making it a wholesome option for discerning palates. If you want to learn more about maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying delicious meals, consider visiting resources like ChooseMyPlate.gov.
This soup is not just filling; it nourishes your body while wrapping you in warmth, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and embrace the comforting essence of rich creamy marry me chicken soup!
FAQs about Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I freeze the soup for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze your rich, creamy Marry Me chicken soup for up to three months. Just remember that the texture may slightly change due to the dairy components once thawed. For best results, freeze the soup before adding cream and gnocchi. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove and stir in the cream and cooked gnocchi until heated through.
How do I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
This recipe is quite adaptable! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free gnocchi or pasta. If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. You can also use non-dairy cheese to maintain that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Check out this guide to dairy alternatives for more ideas!
What are some tips for perfecting the creaminess?
To achieve that dreamy creaminess, consider using full-fat heavy cream and gently warming it before adding it to the soup. For added richness, mix in a splash of half-and-half or even mascarpone cheese. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as high heat can cause separation. Just a gentle heat will keep it perfectly creamy! For more tips, check out this resource on velvety soups.
Conclusion on Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Indulge in the rich, creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup as a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Its delightful blend of flavors and creamy texture will make it a new favorite in your kitchen. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad, and savor the magic!
Rich Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- large soup pot or dutch oven
- slotted spoon
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1½ teaspoon Kosher salt divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon 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 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoon pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 unit Parmesan rind optional
Pasta and Cream
- 16 oz dried potato gnocchi or small pasta, such as orecchiette
- ½ - 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach half of a large bag (feel free to use more!)
- ½ cup Parmesan grated
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken. Place cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl, then season with 1 teaspoon Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss well.
- Brown the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoon butter in a large soup pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the aromatics. To the pot, add 1 diced onion and 2 stalks of diced celery. Season with ½ teaspoon Kosher salt then cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves chopped garlic, and 2 tablespoon tomato paste. Stir, breaking up the paste with a spatula to help it dissolve.
- Add the broth. Add 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tablespoon pesto, and a Parmesan rind (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the gnocchi. Return the cooked chicken to the soup (along with any juices on the plate), then stir in 16oz dried potato gnocchi. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi begin to float to the top and are tender.
- Add cream. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream (or up to 1 cup if you want it really creamy), 5oz baby spinach, and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the soup, then adjust seasoning as needed, adding more Kosher salt or black pepper. Divide between bowls, then serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese if wanted!
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