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Marry Me Chicken Soup

A delightfully rich and creamy soup featuring tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a customizable creamy base, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1.5 tsp Kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Soup Base
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium sweet onion, diced
  • 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
  • 0.5 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 piece Parmesan rind, optional
For the Pasta and Cream
  • 16 oz dried potato gnocchi (or small pasta, such as orecchiette)
  • 0.5 to 1 cup heavy cream Adjust based on desired thickness.
  • 5 oz fresh baby spinach Half of a large bag.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan, grated For finishing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken by mixing it with 1 tsp salt, oregano, and black pepper in a bowl.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Cooking the Soup
  1. In the same pot, add the onion, celery, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt, cooking until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste, and cook until the paste dissolves.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and pesto, along with the Parmesan rind if using. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Return the chicken to the pot, then stir in gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 3-5 minutes.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  2. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Best served hot. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Adjust the thickness of the soup by controlling the amount of heavy cream you add. Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for enhanced flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container; best consumed within 3-4 days or consider freezing in portions.