Name: Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup
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 plus 2 tbsp oil from jar; 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 broken into chunks; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 lb gnocchi; 1 cup small uncooked pasta noodles, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni; 4 oz fresh spinach; Fresh basil and parmesan cheese for topping

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe

This soup is creamy, comforting, and full of bold flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. The gnocchi and pasta make it extra filling, while the spinach adds freshness. It is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or serving a crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 lb packed gnocchi
1 cup small uncooked pasta noodles, like ditalini or elbow macaroni
4 oz fresh spinach
More fresh basil + parmesan for topping

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes.

Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes, then add them to the pot along with the reserved oil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Stir in the tomato paste, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken breasts on top of the sautéed mixture, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook the chicken for about 12 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on a plate.

Add the cream cheese, whole milk, red wine vinegar, and parmesan cheese to the pot. Whisk as the cream cheese melts until the soup becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Return the chicken to the soup. Add the gnocchi and pasta, then bring the soup back to a boil. Cook for 12 minutes, stirring often.

Add the spinach, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve topped with extra fresh basil and parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: About 15 minutes
Cook time: About 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add it after the broth and creamy ingredients are combined.

Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for an even creamier soup.

Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier green.

Reduce or skip the red pepper flakes for a milder soup.

Storage/Reheating

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

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one.

Freezing is not ideal because the cream, gnocchi, and pasta may change texture after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes. Add cooked shredded chicken after the broth and creamy ingredients are combined, then continue with the gnocchi and pasta.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but the gnocchi and pasta may absorb liquid as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes. Add it directly to the soup and cook until tender.

Can I leave out the pasta?

Yes. You can use only gnocchi if you want the soup slightly less thick.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes. Reduce the red pepper flakes or leave them out completely.

Can I use heavy cream instead of whole milk?

Yes. Heavy cream will make the soup richer and creamier.

What kind of pasta works best?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo work well.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better, but pre-grated parmesan can work in a pinch.

Why is my soup too thick?

The pasta and gnocchi absorb broth as they cook and sit. Stir in more chicken broth or milk to loosen it.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free gnocchi and gluten-free small pasta.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with comforting flavor. With tender chicken, soft gnocchi, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, it is a satisfying soup that works beautifully for a cozy dinner or a large family meal.