Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

I still remember the first time I made this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup—it was a cold evening, and I wanted something hearty but romantic, the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort and flavor all at once. One spoonful in, and I understood why it's called "Marry Me." Creamy, savory, slightly tangy from sun-dried tomatoes, with pillowy gnocchi and tender shreds of chicken, this soup is everything you’d want from a cozy meal.

Over time, it’s become one of my go-to recipes when I need something comforting but still want to impress—whether it’s for a dinner date, a family gathering, or even just a self-care night. It’s got that magical blend of rustic simplicity and gourmet flavor that makes it feel like it took hours, even though it comes together surprisingly quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This soup is comfort food with elegance. It’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without needing hours of simmering. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy bite that cuts through the creaminess, while the gnocchi gives it that satisfyingly chewy texture. Whether you're a soup lover or just looking for something new and unforgettable, this one hits every note.

What Makes This Soup So Irresistible?

The magic is in the balance of textures and flavors. Soft gnocchi, shredded chicken, wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a creamy broth that brings it all together—every bite delivers a perfect mix. It's hearty enough to be a full meal but so tasty you'll be tempted to go back for seconds.

Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi or Homemade?

Absolutely! I usually reach for a quality store-bought gnocchi when I’m short on time, and it works perfectly here. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi will only make it more special. Just make sure whichever version you use is soft and pillowy—it should almost melt in the soup.

Substitution Options for Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Chicken: You can swap the shredded chicken for rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey.
• Cream: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative if you want to lighten things up.
• Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard work great if you're out of spinach.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you don’t have them, try roasted red peppers for a different kind of sweetness.
• Gnocchi: Gluten-free gnocchi is a perfect option for anyone avoiding wheat.

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Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Shredded Chicken: The base protein that adds heartiness and soaks up all the rich, creamy flavors.
• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy pasta made from potatoes that gives the soup its signature texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add depth and a slightly tangy sweetness that complements the creamy broth beautifully.
• Fresh Spinach: Brings color, freshness, and a boost of nutrients to balance the richness.
• Garlic: Essential for a savory foundation—it’s one of those non-negotiables.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• Chicken Broth: The liquid base that carries all the flavors together.
• Heavy Cream: Gives the soup its velvety, indulgent texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and a salty, nutty bite.
• Italian Seasoning: A simple way to layer in herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but great if you want a little heat.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and infusing early flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Final seasoning to taste.

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a deeply flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Sauté for another minute to let the flavors bloom. If you like a little kick, now's the time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Bring to a Simmer

Add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will allow all the flavors to meld. This step also ensures the gnocchi cooks evenly.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Chicken

Once the broth is simmering, gently stir in the gnocchi and shredded chicken. Let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi starts to float and becomes tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Spinach

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, then add in the fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and blends into the soup.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Adjust Seasoning

Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Let it simmer for a minute or two more until everything is creamy and well incorporated.

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How Long to Prepare the Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Preparing this soup is surprisingly quick, especially considering how rich and flavorful the end result is. The total prep and cook time is under 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

• Preparation Time: Chopping onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, plus gathering ingredients, takes around 10 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Once the aromatics are sautéed, the broth simmers, and the gnocchi and chicken go in, the whole dish comes together in about 25–30 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Let the gnocchi simmer gently to avoid them breaking apart or getting mushy.
• Add spinach at the very end to keep it bright and fresh.
• Grate fresh Parmesan for a smoother melt and bolder flavor.
• Taste as you go, especially with salt and pepper—broths vary in saltiness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the gnocchi can turn it gummy—cook just until tender.
• Adding the cream too early might cause curdling. Always lower the heat before adding.
• Not sautéing aromatics enough can leave the soup tasting flat. Give onions and garlic time to bloom.
• Skipping the Parmesan removes a major flavor layer.
• Using low-quality broth can make the whole dish bland—opt for a rich, flavorful chicken broth.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy, savory broth.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp, refreshing contrast to balance the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Adds brightness and a touch of bitterness that pairs well.

4. Parmesan Breadsticks

Crunchy, cheesy, and made for dipping.

5. A Glass of Chardonnay

A smooth white wine brings out the creamy and herbal notes of the soup.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick. Microwave works too—just heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Freezing: This soup is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days. Freezing isn’t ideal due to the cream and gnocchi, which can change texture when thawed.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the gnocchi fresh just before serving or keep them separate until ready to eat.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for the cheesy note.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Poach chicken breasts and shred with two forks or use a hand mixer on low for quick shredding.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the soup.

How do I thicken the soup?

Simmer a bit longer with the lid off or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water for a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a bowl of love—warm, cozy, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want a dinner that feels like a hug. With just the right balance of indulgence and comfort, it’s no wonder people fall head over heels for this one.

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