Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Creamy, indulgent, and bursting with flavor, this Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is comfort food at its finest. A perfect cozy dinner for fall, winter, or entertaining, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike. With tender chicken and fluffy gnocchi simmered in a rich broth, it’s a delightful combination that will make any meal feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of spices, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy elements creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it works well as a starter or main course.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, it’s a nourishing option for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is bound to impress your guests with its gourmet flavors without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Tools and Preparation

To create this comforting Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Pot: Ideal for cooking soups; it allows for even heat distribution and ample space for all ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently; a good knife saves time and effort in the kitchen.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring without scratching pots; it helps mix everything evenly while cooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp Butter
– 1/2 tbsp Sun-Dried Tomato Oil
– 1 Yellow Onion, Diced
– 2 Carrots, diced
– 2 Ribs of Celery, diced
– 1/2 tsp Salt
– 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
– 1/2 tsp Kinder’s Buttery Garlic and Herb Seasoning
– 1 tsp Herbs De Provence (or Italian Seasoning)
– 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (add less or more depending on how spicy you want it)
– 1/2 Cup Sun Dried Tomatoes in Oil, chopped
– 3 tbsp Tomato Paste
– 6 Garlic Cloves, minced
– 1 tbsp Chicken Bouillon + 4 cups of water (or 4 cups of chicken broth)
– 1 Cup Heavy Cream
– 1 lb Shelf Stable Gnocchi
– 3 Cups Cooked, Shredded Chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken)
– 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
– 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
– 2 Cups Baby Spinach, roughly chopped
– 2 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped (plus more for garnish if desired)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt butter and sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt, black pepper, Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb seasoning, herbs de Provence, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about five minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Make a well in the center of the pot, add tomato paste, and cook for three minutes to enhance its flavor. Next, add minced garlic and cook for one additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Broth Ingredients

Stir in chicken bouillon along with water or chicken broth. Pour in heavy cream while bringing the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi

Add shelf-stable gnocchi along with shredded chicken into the boiling soup. Boil uncovered for three to four minutes until the gnocchi floats to the surface.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Turn off heat. Stir in softened cream cheese until melted into the soup mixture. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese next.

Step 6: Final Touches

Fold in roughly chopped spinach and basil into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Allow it to sit for about five to ten minutes to thicken before serving hot.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

This Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread: A slice of fresh baguette or artisan loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil enhances the aroma and adds a pop of color.

Add Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle more Parmesan cheese: A generous handful of grated Parmesan on top can make each bowl even richer in flavor.

Offer a Side Salad

• Complement with a mixed greens salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Include Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast.

Provide Chili Flakes

• Offer chili flakes on the side: For those who love extra heat, providing chili flakes allows guests to customize their spice level.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken broth: Opt for homemade or low-sodium broth for better flavor without excess salt.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float to retain their delicate texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste before serving, as seasoning needs may vary based on ingredients used.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Feel free to add in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the soup to rest for 5-10 minutes thickens it up and melds the flavors beautifully.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

A delicious soup deserves equally delightful side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices topped with garlic butter are perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add both flavor and color.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing starter.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy side option.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with herb cream cheese are an elegant addition to your meal.
7. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides crunch and is an excellent way to balance the richness of the soup.
8. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses paired with crackers can be a delightful pre-soup snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and remove from heat as soon as they float.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or poor-quality ingredients affects flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible.
• Rushing the cream addition: Adding cream too quickly can cause it to curdle. Stir it in gradually after removing the soup from the heat.
• Ignoring texture balance: A good soup should have a mix of textures. Ensure you include crunchy veggies alongside creamy elements.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?

Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish made with shredded chicken, gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and spices, perfect for cozy dinners.

How can I customize Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use different proteins such as turkey or lamb for variety.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! To make a vegetarian version of Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that combines creamy goodness with rich flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to adapt it based on your preferences, so feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients. This comforting recipe is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!