There’s something magical about a soup that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day—enter Marry Me Chicken Soup. This creamy, one-pot wonder brilliantly combines the crave-worthy flavors of the viral chicken dish—think sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan—making it a go-to for those moments when you just need comfort food. With its effortless prep, this bowl of coziness is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing your loved ones with minimal fuss. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that you can save and savor again. Are you ready to discover how this delightful soup will become your new go-to recipe?
Why is Marry Me Chicken Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Embrace: This soup wraps you in a layer of creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug on chilly nights.
Effortlessly Delicious: You’ll love that it all comes together in just one pot, saving you cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
Nostalgic Flavors: Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken dish, it’s a comforting twist that resonates with those cozy meal memories.
Name Your Protein: Feel free to swap chicken for ground turkey, or even use plant-based protein to suit your dietary needs.
Impress Your Guests: Its rich, savory taste is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings alike.
The Marry Me Chicken Soup is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, and if you’re looking for other comforting recipes, check out my favorite Comforting Chicken Soup or the wholesome White Chicken Chili that are sure to delight your palate!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
This delightful recipe combines creamy flavors and comforting textures, making it a must-try for cozy nights.
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; can substitute with any cooking oil.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; increase for more intensity.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Provides gentle heat; adjust quantity for spice preference.
- Italian Seasoning – Offers a bouquet of herbs; can use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Infuses richness and acidity; can use fresh tomatoes as an alternative.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Acts as the soup base; can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Main protein source; rotisserie chicken can be a quick substitute.
For the Creamy Finish
- Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess; can replace with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides nuttiness and umami; nutritional yeast can be an alternative for vegan recipes.
For the Greens
- Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; can use kale or any leafy greens as a substitute.
Optional Add-ins and Serving
- Cooked Pasta or Rice – Optional add-ins; adjust based on preference.
- Crusty Bread – For serving; ideal for dipping into the soup.
Let the aroma of this Marry Me Chicken Soup fill your kitchen and create an inviting space for special moments with loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with aromatic goodness.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, incorporate ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the pot and stir well to combine. Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, increasing the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, you’ll notice the vibrant colors of your Marry Me Chicken Soup starting to shine—this is the base for deliciousness!
Step 3: Add Chicken
Carefully place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let the chicken cook for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s tender and cooked through. The chicken should easily shred when done, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded meat to the soup. Stir gently to combine, allowing the chicken to soak up all the rich flavors of the broth and enhancing the overall texture of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low, and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and fully incorporated. This will create that creamy, luscious finish that makes this Marry Me Chicken Soup feel like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings.
Step 6: Add Spinach
With the heat still on medium-low, toss in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach to the pot and stir until the leaves wilt, which should take about 1–2 minutes. The spinach will add a pop of color and nutrients, making your soup not only comforting but also visually appealing.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Finally, taste your Marry Me Chicken Soup, adjusting seasoning with salt and black pepper as necessary. Ladle the soup into deep bowls and serve hot with optional cooked pasta or rice, along with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Your delicious meal is ready, inviting warmth and happiness to your dining table!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure chicken is simmered just until it’s tender and juicy. Overcooking can lead to dry meat that detracts from the overall flavor of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
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Thickening Made Easy: For a creamier consistency, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water, and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Taste Test: Always taste your soup towards the end and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate your Marry Me Chicken Soup to the next level.
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Creative Veggie Additions: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly!
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Storage Savvy: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop to maintain creaminess, ensuring a delicious meal awaits you again!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
Nothing complements a warm, creamy bowl of this delightful soup quite like a few carefully chosen sides that enhance its rich flavors and cozy essence.
- Crusty Bread: The ideal companion for dipping, crusty bread soaks up the savory broth, creating a delightful textural contrast.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Baked to golden perfection, these garlicky delights offer a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soup’s creaminess.
- House Salad: A light, refreshing salad adds brightness with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette, elevating your meal’s balance.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring a delicious sweetness, providing an earthy counterpoint to the soup’s richness.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these biscuits bring warmth and a delightful cheesy flavor that your taste buds will adore.
- Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine can enhance the savory notes of the soup, offering a touch of elegance to your meal.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs complements the soup without overshadowing it, adding heartiness and a gentle flavor.
- Fruit Sorbet: Light and refreshing, a scoop of fruit sorbet for dessert is a delightful finish, cleansing the palate after the creamy soup.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Marry Me Chicken Soup and make it your own with these fun modifications!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that’s still rich and satisfying.
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Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swap chicken for chickpeas or lentils, delivering hearty protein without meat.
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Creamy Cheddar Twist: Stir in sharp cheddar cheese instead of parmesan for a different cheesy flavor and added richness.
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Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the nutrient profile and add vibrant colors.
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Spicy Kick: For a zestier soup, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics.
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Pasta Lovers: Mix in cooked pasta, like rotini or orzo, to create a heartier version, perfect for dinner with crusty bread.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can be added for an aromatic boost that’ll uplift the flavors.
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Quinoa Substitute: For a nutritious twist, replace pasta or rice with cooked quinoa, providing an extra dose of protein and fiber.
These swaps will take your Marry Me Chicken Soup to new heights! If you’re interested in exploring more comforting recipes, don’t miss my delightful Honey Garlic Chicken or the cozy Chicken Alfredo Minutes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring until warmed through to preserve creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir well as it warms to ensure it’s evenly heated.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners—perfect for when you need a comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup in a hurry!
Make Ahead Options
Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the entire soup base—aromatics, chicken, and broth—up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool it completely and refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain its creamy texture, add heavy cream and parmesan only just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup gently on the stove, then stir in fresh spinach until wilted. This way, you’ll savor all its comforting flavors just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Marry Me Chicken Soup?
For the best flavor and texture, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully. If you’re in a rush, rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute; just shred and add it towards the end of the cooking process.
How do I know if my sun-dried tomatoes are still good?
Look for sun-dried tomatoes that are firm and not overly soft or slimy. If they have dark spots all over or a rancid smell, it’s best to discard them. Fresh is often better, but dried can work if they’re stored properly!
How should I store the leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool first. Gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, to maintain the creaminess.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to restore consistency.
What if my chicken is still tough after simmering?
If you find the chicken isn’t shredding easily, it might need a little more simmering time. Keep it covered, and let it cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, checking occasionally until it’s tender. Patience is key!
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace heavy cream and parmesan cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast, respectively. Enjoy a hearty, comforting bowl that’s all plant-based!
Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Creamy Hug in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir well. Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the pot, ensuring they are submerged. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded meat to the soup.
- Lower heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until melted.
- Toss in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as necessary. Serve hot with optional cooked pasta or rice, and crusty bread.
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