Introduction
Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of a rich and creamy soup wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort. This is the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup—a dish so delightful that it’s said to inspire proposals! Originating from the popular “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this soup captures the same essence of love and indulgence but in a comforting bowl of goodness.This creamy chicken soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a medley of spices, it offers a symphony of flavors that will make anyone swoon. Whether you’re looking to impress a loved one or simply enjoy a hearty dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Recipe Card
Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Description: A creamy, savory soup featuring tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 7 oz pasta (ditalini or small shells)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add salt, dried parsley, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a rolling simmer.
- Lower the heat and add the diced chicken. Cook for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Add heavy cream and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For extra richness, consider adding more cream or cheese.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~20g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a dish that warms your heart.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this soup in beautiful bowls with crusty bread for an elegant meal that feels gourmet.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Essential Ingredients:
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience but feel free to use leftover cooked chicken or poached chicken breasts.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add depth and richness; if unavailable, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes or omit them entirely for a simpler flavor profile.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells work best; however, you can use any pasta you have on hand.
Possible Substitutions:
- Cream: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach if desired.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 large diced onion. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute. The aroma will be delightful! Then, add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your heat preference). Mix everything well to combine the spices with the onions and garlic.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Add 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly for about 2 minutes. This enhances the flavor profile, giving your soup a rich base.
Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. Add a bay leaf for added depth in flavor. Bring this mixture to a rolling simmer, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cooked Chicken
Once simmering, lower the heat and add 3 cups of diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is perfect). Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Stir in 7 oz of pasta (such as ditalini or small shells) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking!
Step 7: Stir in Cream and Spinach
After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 3 cups of chopped baby spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your soup. Stir until well combined.
Step 8: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding more grated Parmesan cheese at this stage.
Step 9: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the quality of ingredients used, especially the chicken broth. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Taking your time to properly sauté onions and garlic will enhance the overall flavor profile of your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more pasta or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish at various stages to adjust seasoning according to your preference.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme towards the end for an aromatic boost.
- Creamy Alternatives: Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist while still keeping it creamy.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Soup
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing, portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Marry Me Chicken Soup with:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping!
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness.
- Cheesy Biscuits: For an indulgent twist, serve with warm cheesy biscuits on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup special?
The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent—perfect for any occasion!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together. Just follow storage instructions mentioned above.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep; just store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes! If using raw chicken, simply add it earlier in the cooking process—sauté it after onions and garlic until cooked through before adding other ingredients.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed Marry Me Chicken Soup, you might also like:
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Butternut Squash Soup
Conclusion
In conclusion, Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just another chicken soup; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress someone special.With easy preparation steps, customizable ingredients, and excellent storage options, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients today and create this delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup that might just win hearts—and maybe even proposals! Enjoy every warm bite!