Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces and creamy elements, all simmered together to create a luscious and hearty soup. It’s called "Marry Me" because legend has it that this soup is so delicious that anyone who eats it becomes enamored—though we can’t guarantee any wedding proposals! This article will guide you through everything you need to know to make this comforting soup, from filling your kitchen with beautiful aromas to enjoying every last spoonful.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to consider making Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. First and foremost, it is comfort food at its finest. On a cold day, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup provides warmth not just from its temperature but also from its rich flavors.
Another reason is the versatility of the recipe. It is suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, an elegant gathering, or simply a meal prep for the week ahead. The ingredients are typically easy to find, making it convenient for any home cook.
Moreover, this soup is packed with nutrients. With chicken as the main protein source, combined with vegetables like spinach and the health benefits of olive oil and garlic, it enriches your meal with vitamins and minerals.
How to Prepare Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather and prepare all your ingredients. This process is often called "mise en place." Start with 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. This uniformity ensures even cooking and makes the bites enjoyable.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 0.25 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to ensure the seasonings coat each piece adequately. This step adds depth of flavor and helps to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Step 3: Searing the Chicken
Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. The oil helps to prevent the butter from burning while providing a rich flavor. Once heated, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you might need to do this in batches if your pot is small.
Step 4: Sautéing the Aromatics
Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add a medium sweet onion, finely diced, along with 2 finely chopped sticks of celery and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onion is translucent, typically around 3 to 4 minutes. This step sweeps up the fond (the caramelized bits left in the pot) while developing a base of flavor.
Step 5: Adding the Flavor Boosters
Next, add 0.5 cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 cloves of finely chopped garlic, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir this mixture until it’s fragrant—approximately 1 minute. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a rich, tangy sweetness, while garlic adds a pungent aroma that boosts the overall flavor profile.
Step 6: Incorporating the Broth
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 2 tablespoons of pesto (homemade or store-bought). If you have a Parmesan rind available, toss it in as well for added umami. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Cooking the Gnocchi
After the broth has simmered, return the seared chicken to the pot. Add 16 oz of dried potato gnocchi or a small pasta like orecchiette. Cook until the gnocchi floats, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Gnocchi cooking time varies based on its size, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Stir in 0.5 to 1 cup of heavy cream, 5 oz of baby spinach, and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cream is thoroughly combined and the spinach has wilted. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
Step 9: Serve
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and enjoy hot.
How to Serve Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
This soup is comforting on its own, but there are several ways to enhance your meal.
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Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta bread pairs wonderfully with the soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich broth.
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Add a Fresh Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
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Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir, works well to complement the flavors.
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Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and an herbal note.
How to Store Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Storing this soup correctly can extend its shelf life and maintain its flavors. Here are some practical options:
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Refrigeration: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days.
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Freezing: If you want to preserve it longer, consider freezing it. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
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Anti-Waste Tip: If you have leftovers, consider using them as a base for other meals. For example, you can blend the soup for a creamy pasta sauce, or use it as a sauce for baked chicken.
Tips for Mastering Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Mastering this soup comes with practice. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
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Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Monitor the cooking time to keep them juicy.
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Enhance Your Broth: You can use homemade chicken stock for deeper flavor, or even add a splash of white wine during the sautéing stage.
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Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper as you go. Tasting at each stage ensures the best final flavor.
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Control the Creaminess: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream or substitute with half-and-half.
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Explore Textures: Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers during the sautéing stage for added nutrients and texture.
Variations
This recipe is highly versatile, accommodating various dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients. Here are some variations:
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
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Seasonal Ingredients: In winter, add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes. In spring, include asparagus or peas for a fresh taste.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta altogether, opting for extra vegetables instead.
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Spicy Kick: For heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sauté stage.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be aware that it will require longer cooking time. Always ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or even plain yogurt for a lighter version of the soup. However, avoid boiling if using yogurt to prevent curdling.
3. How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry of cornstarch and water once the soup is simmering or blending a portion of the soup to create a creamy base.
4. Is there a way to make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup several hours in advance and reheat it over low heat. Add the cream and spinach just before serving to maintain freshness.
5. Can I omit the gnocchi or pasta?
Yes, you can omit gnocchi or substitute it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. This will keep the soup lighter and incorporate more vegetables.
With these insights and tips, you’re ready to embark on your culinary journey, creating a delightful bowl of Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful flavors that will surely make this recipe a favorite in your home!
Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 16 oz dried potato gnocchi Or a small pasta like orecchiette
- 0.5 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 4 cloves finely chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 5 oz baby spinach
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 to 1 cup heavy cream Adjust to preference
- 2 tablespoons pesto Homemade or store-bought
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 1 teaspoon salt Divided
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Divided
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium sweet onion Finely diced
- 2 sticks celery Finely chopped
- Parmesan rind Optional for added umami
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather and prepare all ingredients (mise en place). Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken with salt, oregano, and pepper. Toss to coat.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Once heated, add chicken in a single layer. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- Remove chicken from pot and set aside. In the same pot, add onion, celery, and salt. Sauté until onion is translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Adding Flavors
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Incorporating the Broth
- Pour in chicken broth and pesto. Add Parmesan rind if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Cooking the Gnocchi
- Return seared chicken to the pot. Add gnocchi and cook until they float, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and spinach has wilted.
Serving
- Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot.