Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
If you believe food can spark love at first bite, Marry Me Chicken Soup is about to sweep you off your feet. This ultra-creamy, sun-dried tomato–flecked chicken soup is a flavor-packed twist on a classic, designed for cozy nights and big, happy soup bowls. It combines tender chicken, rich cream, and savory parmesan with pops of color from spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that’s equal parts comforting and downright impressive. Get ready to fall head over heels—your kitchen is about to become everyone’s favorite destination!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With a handful of vibrant ingredients, Marry Me Chicken Soup comes together quickly and feels special enough for any occasion. Each element adds something delightful—whether it’s depth, creaminess, or a burst of color—making every spoonful feel like a celebration in a bowl.
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): The star of the show, these provide hearty protein and tender texture—use thighs if you want extra richness.
- Olive oil: A drizzle to sauté the aromatics and coax out those irresistible flavors right from the start.
- Onion (diced): Adds gentle sweetness and savory depth, creating a savory foundation for your soup.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Gives the soup its aromatic punch—that tempting smell that brings everyone into the kitchen.
- Dried oregano: Infuses every bite with earthy, Mediterranean notes that round out the flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of warmth and gentle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- Chicken broth: The soup’s backbone, delivering robust, well-seasoned flavor to tie everything together.
- Heavy cream: For that ultra-silky, creamy finish that makes this soup totally unforgettable.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed and drained): Lend intense, concentrated bursts of sweet-tangy flavor and gorgeous color.
- Small pasta (ditalini or orzo): Little pasta shapes soak up all the creamy broth—each spoonful is loaded with goodness.
- Baby spinach: Adds a bright green pop and a hint of freshness that balances out the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup to deliver salty, nutty undertones and dreamy creaminess.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors to life—season as you go.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish): The finishing touch for color and a whiff of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it sweat until it turns beautifully translucent and soft, about 4 to 5 minutes. Next, add your minced garlic, dried oregano, and, if you like a touch of spice, red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds—just until the kitchen smells absolutely heavenly. This quick step lays a super flavorful base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 2: Poach the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts (or thighs, if you love extra tenderness) into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is submerged, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. By the end, your chicken will be perfectly cooked, juicy, and ready to shred into pieces that soak up every drop of flavor.
Step 3: Shred and Return
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the broth and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Use two forks (or your favorite shredding method) to pull the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Slide it right back into the pot, where it’ll absorb all that simmering, savory goodness and start to build the soul of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 4: Creamy Pasta Magic
Now add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, your chosen small pasta, and a generous pour of heavy cream. Leave the pot uncovered and let everything cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when the soup turns beautifully creamy, and the pasta softens just right. For an even silkier texture, keep an eye on it so the pasta doesn’t overcook.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Cheese
With the soup bubbling and the aroma filling your kitchen, stir in the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold until the spinach just wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy broth. Give it a taste and adjust with salt and pepper—this little step makes the final flavor pop!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle your Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls while it’s still steamy. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if you love a burst of color and a little extra freshness. Serve immediately and prepare for smiles all around!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
Garnishes
The simplest touches make Marry Me Chicken Soup feel restaurant-special. A little extra Parmesan on top, a swirl of cream, or a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley brings your bowl to life. If you love a little kick, try a tiny drizzle of chili oil or cracked black pepper for visual and flavor excitement.
Side Dishes
While this soup can absolutely shine on its own, serving it with a chunk of warm, crusty bread or a flaky homemade biscuit takes comfort to the next level. A crisp green salad with lemony dressing, or even roasted veggies, pairs perfectly and turns the meal into a true feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dinner into an experience by serving Marry Me Chicken Soup in cute individual soup crocks, or set up a “soup bar” with bowls of assorted toppings—think toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, or extra herbs. For special occasions, ladle the soup into espresso cups for a cozy appetizer or a party-perfect starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup holds up beautifully for up to 3 days in the fridge. Let the soup cool fully, then transfer it to an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated bowls even more comforting and delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to stash some soup away, freeze it without the pasta for best results—just scoop out the portion you want to freeze before adding the noodles. Pour into airtight freezer containers or bags, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, add fresh-cooked pasta after reheating for the perfect texture.
Reheating
Warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the creaminess. If you’re microwaving, use short bursts and stir in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of poaching raw chicken?
Absolutely! Using cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut for Marry Me Chicken Soup—just add it in during the step when you’d return the shredded chicken, and simmer until heated through.
What type of pasta works best in this soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo are ideal since they cook quickly and don’t overpower the other ingredients. You can swap in small shells, mini farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
How do I make this soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative (look for one that’s unsweetened and meant for cooking), and use a dairy-free parmesan or omit the cheese altogether. It’ll still be deliciously creamy and satisfying!
Can Marry Me Chicken Soup be made in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all ingredients except the pasta, spinach, and cheese to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, shred the chicken, then stir in pasta, cheese, and spinach during the last 30 minutes.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta or substitute with cooked rice. Everything else in Marry Me Chicken Soup is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy all the cozy flavors without worry.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is crave-worthy, Marry Me Chicken Soup might just become your new favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with bold flavors—perfect for sharing with someone special or treating yourself on a chilly evening. Once you try a bowl, don’t be surprised if your loved ones start requesting it on repeat!
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Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and savory goodness of Marry Me Chicken Soup. This heartwarming soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a romantic dinner. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach come together in a rich and flavorful broth that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed and drained)
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil. Add onion, cook until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken and broth, simmer until cooked. Shred chicken and return to the pot.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, pasta, and cream. Simmer until pasta is tender.
- Finish Soup: Add spinach, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Garnish with herbs and serve.
Notes
- You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
