Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup has this magical ability to make any weeknight feel like a special occasion, and honestly, it’s earned its name. I remember the first time I made this for my partner; the creamy, savory aroma filled the kitchen, and seeing their eyes light up as they took their first bite was pure bliss. It’s that kind of dish – deeply comforting, incredibly delicious, and just special enough for when you want to make someone feel truly loved. This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is packed with tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious sauce that’s simply irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
What is Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
So, What is Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup? It’s essentially a richer, more decadent take on classic chicken gnocchi soup, designed to be so unbelievably delicious that it’s worth saying “yes” to! Think of it as a super-creamy Tuscan-inspired dish, brimming with tender, shredded chicken, those delightful little gnocchi dumplings, and fresh spinach, all swimming in a velvety, savory broth. While there’s no official origin story, the name suggests it’s a dish so good it would make you propose! Its key characteristics are its luxurious creaminess and hearty, satisfying nature, making it a true comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This isn’t just any soup; it’s an experience! Here’s why this Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup will become a favorite:
- Incredibly Creamy: The rich, velvety broth is pure comfort in a bowl.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in about an hour, perfect for busy nights.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Tender chicken and soft gnocchi make this a meal on its own.
- Flavorful: A blend of herbs and savory broth creates a delicious depth of flavor.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is impressive enough for guests or a romantic dinner.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love the tender chicken and soft dumplings.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with added veggies or a touch of spice.
- Pure Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate cozy dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Gathering your Chicken Gnocchi Soup ingredients is the first step towards making this dreamy dish. This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup relies on simple, quality items to create that signature flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the lean protein base for our hearty soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and adding a touch of Mediterranean flavor
- 1 small onion, diced – about 1 cup, this forms the aromatic foundation
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory depth
- 4 cups chicken broth – the liquid gold that brings everything together
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is key for that luxurious, creamy texture
- 2 cups gnocchi – the soft, pillowy dumplings that make this soup so special
- 1 cup spinach, fresh – adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb that pairs beautifully with chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – adds an earthy, fragrant note
- Salt and pepper to taste – to perfectly balance all the flavors
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving – adds a salty, nutty finish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a burst of freshness and color
How to Make Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Let’s get this comforting pot of goodness simmering! Following these steps will guide you to a delicious bowl of Easy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
- Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the hot pot and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until beautifully browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 2: In the same pot, add 1 small diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté these aromatics for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and wonderfully fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot – that’s where a lot of the flavor lives!
- Step 4: Return the browned chicken breasts to the pot. Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it gently cook for about 15-20 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and tender.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a clean cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the simmering broth.
- Step 6: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Let the soup simmer gently for a few minutes until it becomes rich and creamy. This is where the magic happens for your Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup!
- Step 7: Add 2 cups of gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package directions, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are perfectly tender.
- Step 8: Finally, stir in 1 cup of fresh spinach. Let it wilt into the hot soup, which only takes about a minute. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 9: Ladle this delightful Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls. Garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Elevating your soup from good to absolutely unforgettable is all about a few simple tricks. These tips will help you nail the Best Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe every time.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi! They cook very quickly, and mushy gnocchi aren’t ideal. Watch for them to float to the top.
- Always use fresh spinach. It wilts down so easily and adds a lovely freshness and color to the rich soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A little extra salt or pepper can make a huge difference in bringing out all the flavors.
What’s the secret to perfect Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup?
The secret to a truly perfect Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup lies in building layers of flavor. Sautéing the aromatics well and deglazing the pot with broth captures all those delicious browned bits, creating a richer base for the creamy soup. For more tips on building flavor in soups, check out this guide to building flavor in soups.
Can I make Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base (everything except the gnocchi and spinach) a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the gnocchi and spinach just before reheating and serving to keep them at their best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?
A common pitfall is overcooking the gnocchi, making them mushy. Another is not browning the chicken enough, which reduces flavor. Lastly, ensure you don’t boil the soup vigorously after adding the cream, as it can sometimes separate. For more common cooking mistakes, this resource can be helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Gnocchi Soup for Dinner
This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but it’s also wonderful when paired with a few simple sides. For a truly satisfying Chicken Gnocchi Soup for dinner experience, I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping into that luscious broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a fresh contrast to the soup’s richness. Consider pairing this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Nutritional Information
Wondering about the details of this delicious bowl? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional profile for our Chicken Gnocchi Soup per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Fiber: Not specified
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
Chicken Gnocchi Soup nutritional information can vary slightly based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat One Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Even though this One Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is best enjoyed fresh, it stores beautifully, making meal prep a breeze. Once it’s cooled down to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with extra and want to save it for a future craving, this soup freezes remarkably well! For best results, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your stored soup, the best method is to reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems a bit thick after refrigerating or thawing.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup Variations You Can Try
This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for endless delicious variations! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs, here are a few ideas to explore for your next batch of Chicken Gnocchi Soup variations.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or celery. You can also use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian meal.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion, or stir in some diced jalapeños with the spinach for a fiery twist on this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
- Lighter Version: If you prefer a less rich soup, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth instead.
- Smoked Chicken Twist: For a deeper, smoky flavor, consider using shredded smoked chicken or even adding a bit of smoked paprika to the broth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Can I use store-bought gnocchi in this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi work wonderfully for this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Just follow the package directions for cooking time, usually until they float to the surface. Fresh gnocchi will cook a bit faster than frozen, so keep an eye on them!
What can I serve with this soup?
This Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Crusty bread, like a baguette or focaccia, is also perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious creamy broth. Garlic bread is another crowd-pleaser!
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you’ll need to find gluten-free gnocchi – they are readily available in most grocery stores. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables to this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Sautéed mushrooms, diced carrots, or celery added with the onions would be delicious. Peas or broccoli florets can be added during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Marry Chicken Gnocchi Soup: 1 Blissful Dish
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a savory broth. It’s an easy-to-make recipe perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups gnocchi
- 1 cup spinach, fresh
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Incorporate Chicken: Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Creamy Base: Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, allowing the soup to become rich and creamy.
- Add Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the boiling soup. Cook according to package directions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float.
- Final Touch: Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ingredients.
- Adjust consistency by adding more cream or a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker soup.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
- This soup can be made ahead; flavors deepen overnight.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Fiber: Not specified
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: Not specified