Name: Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil + 2 tbsp of oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp red pepper flake; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 3 large chicken breasts, uncooked; 8 cups chicken broth; 8 oz cream cheese, softened and room temperature, broken into small chunks; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 lb packed gnocchi; 1 cup small uncooked pasta noodles (ditalini or elbow macaroni); 4 oz fresh spinach; More fresh basil (for topping); More parmesan cheese (for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 33 reviews

If you are craving a soul-warming, creamy, and hearty soup that bursts with flavor in every bite, the Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and a luscious blend of sun-dried tomatoes and cream cheese creating a dish so irresistible it just might inspire a proposal. This recipe is a perfect combination of comforting textures and bold Italian-inspired flavors that come together smoothly in one pot, making it a beloved favorite for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A red round pot with two handles holds a creamy orange soup base with visible specks of spices and herbs. Inside the pot, the ingredients are arranged in three distinct sections: shredded white chicken pieces on the left, small pale yellow gnocchi in the middle, and uncooked small tube pasta on the right. The pot rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, providing color, depth of flavor, or that perfect creamy consistency that makes this soup stand out.

Olive oil: The base for sautéing the onion and sun-dried tomatoes, adding richness.
Yellow onion: Brings sweet, aromatic layers to the stew.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil + oil: Infuses the broth with tangy, concentrated tomato flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Garlic: Adds a fragrant punch to enhance all the savory notes.
Tomato paste: Provides depth and a rich tomato essence that balances the creaminess.
Fresh basil: Brightens the soup with a fresh, herby lift.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that perfectly complements the chicken and veggies.
Red pepper flake: Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Chicken breasts: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and satisfying.
Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation of the soup.
Cream cheese: Gives the soup a luxurious, creamy texture and tanginess.
Whole milk: Adds additional creaminess and smoothness to the broth.
Red wine vinegar: Balances richness with a hint of acidity.
Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, savory boost.
Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
Small pasta noodles (ditalini or elbow macaroni): Adds texture and heartiness to the soup.
Fresh spinach: For color, nutrition, and a mild earthiness that contrasts the creamy broth.
More fresh basil + parmesan for topping: A finishing touch to elevate every spoonful.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Begin by heating olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with their flavorful oil, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to release their sweetness. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute until fragrant. This aromatic base sets the stage for all the delicious flavors to unfold.

Step 2: Build the Flavor with Tomato Paste and Herbs

Stir in tomato paste, fresh chopped basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This mixture blends and intensifies the tomato and herb notes, offering a complex flavor profile that will shine throughout the soup. Don’t rush this step; letting the tomato paste cook slightly softens its acidity and deepens its earthiness.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth; Simmer

Place the chicken breasts directly on top of the sautéed mixture in the pot, then immediately pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything up to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, about 12 minutes. Afterward, remove the chicken and place it on a plate to rest. This method gently poaches the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy while infusing the broth with rich flavor.

Step 4: Creamify the Broth

Add chunks of softened cream cheese to the pot alongside whole milk, red wine vinegar, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Use a whisk to help break up the cream cheese as it warms, stirring until the broth is smooth and silky. Let it simmer for a few minutes — this creamy base literally turns the soup into a luscious treat and perfectly balances the tangy and savory elements.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Add to Soup Along with Gnocchi and Pasta

While the broth is simmering, shred or finely chop the cooked chicken breasts. Return the chicken to the pot. Then add the gnocchi and small pasta noodles, bringing the soup back to a boil. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the dumplings and pasta are tender and cooked through. The combination of gnocchi and pasta adds irresistible texture and heartiness that makes every spoonful satisfying.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Final Simmer

Finally, stir in fresh spinach and allow the soup to simmer gently on medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The spinach wilts into the broth, contributing beautiful color and a mild, fresh earthiness that balances the creamy richness. This final step melds all the flavors together, creating the signature taste of the Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

The image shows three bowls filled with creamy, orange-colored macaroni and cheese topped with grated white cheese and small fresh green basil leaves scattered on top. The macaroni pasta has a smooth, thick texture coated fully with the rich sauce. Each bowl is dark colored, creating a strong contrast with the bright food inside. There is a wooden spoon placed inside the bowl at the top left. Around the bowls, small dishes hold green chopped herbs and dried red and yellow tomatoes. A white marbled surface and a white cloth with red stripes form the backdrop, with a bright, natural light giving the image a fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an elegant finishing touch, sprinkle more fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. The fresh herbs add a pop of brightness and aroma, while the cheese provides a salty, nutty layer that complements the creamy broth beautifully. These garnishes transform the soup from simple to stunning.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty and filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The bread’s crunch and buttery garlic flavor contrast the silky soup, while a crisp salad adds refreshing balance to the meal. Together they create a well-rounded dinner experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or mini cast iron pots with a few fresh basil sprigs on top. Adding a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the look and taste. These little details make serving the Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe extra special, perfect for entertaining or cozy family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the soup taste even better the next day. Just be sure to reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the gnocchi and pasta because they can become mushy after thawing. Freeze the broth and shredded chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and cook gnocchi and pasta fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the consistency. For the best texture, add fresh gnocchi and pasta during reheating, cooking until tender. This will keep the soup tasting fresh and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, cook and shred the chicken separately, then add it during the last few minutes of simmering. Just be mindful that the broth may not be as rich, so consider boosting flavor with extra seasonings or broth.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap cream cheese for a dairy-free cream alternative and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk. Parmesan can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The soup will still be creamy and delicious with these substitutions.

What if I can’t find gnocchi?

No worries! You can substitute gnocchi with extra small pasta shapes or even diced potatoes for a similar texture. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.

How spicy is this soup?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick—not overpowering but enough to keep the flavors lively. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or omit it altogether for a milder version.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a crowd?

Definitely! The Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe is ideal for meal prepping or entertaining because it stores well and tastes great reheated. Just keep pasta separate if freezing to maintain the best consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a creamy, comforting soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you simply must try this Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe. Its perfect blend of tender chicken, rich broth, and melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi makes every spoonful irresistible. Once you make it, this will become one of your go-to recipes for cozy nights, special dinners, and everything in between. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your soup rotation forever!