Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a bowl of soup that envelops you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. "Marry Me Chicken Soup" is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a recipe that brings people together, filling your home with warmth and affection. Imagine a rich and creamy broth, fragrant with fresh herbs, punctuated by tender chicken and vibrant spinach. This soup is not just food; it’s an experience that promises to impress not only your palate but also anyone you share it with.

Why Make This Recipe

It combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients for comfort food at its finest.
The straightforward preparation means anyone can whip up this delicious dish, regardless of cooking experience.
You’ll be left with a bowl of love that’s perfect for sharing, whether it’s for a romantic dinner or a family meal.

Whether it’s a rainy day or you simply want to create something special for your loved ones, this Marry Me Chicken Soup is your answer to a memorable mealtime.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Soup

Bringing this delightful dish to life is easier than you might think. In just a few steps, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table. Here’s how to make this special soup that has the potential to win hearts.

Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add in your chopped yellow onions and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and emanating a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen.
Build the Base
Next, it’s time to deepen those flavors. Stir in the tomato paste and the julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes, mixing well. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll notice the tomato paste takes on a richer color; this is when you know it’s ready for the next step.
Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream, followed by the fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. This combination of ingredients will create a beautifully fragrant broth. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Then, let it simmer for about 12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Pasta
Once your broth is simmering, add the uncooked medium shell pasta. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it cook for approximately 12 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. You want it tender but still al dente!
Make It Creamy & Delicious
With the pasta cooked, lower the heat to low. It’s now time to stir in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and finely shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir often for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt and the chicken warms through. The texture of the soup should be creamy and luscious by this point.
Serve & Enjoy
Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired. This soup is deliciously rich and is best served immediately, accompanied by crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Once you’ve made a big pot of this delicious chicken soup, you may find yourself with some leftovers. No need to worry; proper storage will ensure you can enjoy it again!

Refrigerate: Store the soup in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: If you want to save it for longer, freeze it in a safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Reheat: When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.

Best Ways to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be as creative as you’d like. Here are a few suggestions to make it even more enjoyable:

Accompany with Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping, allowing the soup’s richness to balance the bread’s texture.
Side Salad: A refreshing green salad with light vinaigrette complements the creamy flavors of the soup, offering a crisp contrast.
Cheesy Additions: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese for an added kick.

This dish’s versatility means it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.

Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here are some handy tips to elevate your soup-making game:

Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible; they add a bright note to the dish.
Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the soup.
Don’t Rush Cooking the Pasta: Make sure to check for doneness around the 10-minute mark—overcooking will lead to a mushy texture.

Once you master the basics, you’ll find yourself adapting this soup to suit your tastes!

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a couple of ways you can adapt it according to your preferences:

Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.
Pasta Choices: If you prefer a different texture, use whole wheat pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.

No matter how you adapt it, the heart of the recipe remains the same—savoring that creamy goodness!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! The soup can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute! They will add a bit more flavor and richness to the soup.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: If you prefer a kick, add more crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some chopped jalapeños.

Nutritional Info

Although exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients, here’s a general overview:

Calories: Approximately 330 per serving
Protein: About 20g
Fat: Roughly 25g
Carbohydrates: Around 18g
Fiber: About 3g
Sodium: Approximately 800mg

This hearty soup not only fills your belly but also provides wholesome goodness.

What to Serve With

Though the Marry Me Chicken Soup can stand alone, a few side dishes can enhance your dining experience:

Garlic Bread: Nothing beats fresh garlic bread to scoop up that creamy goodness.
Cheese Platter: A delightful cheese and charcuterie platter can introduce a variety of flavors and textures to your meal.
Wine Pairing: A light-bodied white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can complement the soup beautifully, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Burning the Onions and Garlic: When sautéing the aromatics, be cautious about the heat. Burning will lead to bitterness.
Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta for doneness to keep the soup’s texture just right.
Neglecting Seasoning: Since flavors can mellow out as the soup simmers, always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup is indeed a bowl of comfort, a hug in liquid form. Perfect for chilly nights or when you want to impress, this hearty dish beckons to be shared and savored. Made from wholesome ingredients and bursting with vibrant flavors, it’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to suit anyone’s tastes.

So why not gather your loved ones, pour a bowl, and enjoy the warmth that this soup brings—to your heart and home. Happy cooking!