If you are searching for a soup that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a special occasion, the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This comforting bowl combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes with just the right hint of herbs and spice. It’s an uncomplicated dish that somehow manages to taste luxurious and inviting, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a significant role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the soup truly irresistible.
- Olive oil: This forms the flavorful base to sauté the chicken and aromatics for a rich start.
- Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they provide tender protein that soaks up every bit of broth and seasoning.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when gently cooked down.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for that essential aromatic punch that elevates the whole dish.
- Chicken broth: The liquid backbone, lending savory warmth and moisture.
- Heavy cream: For the silky texture and luscious mouthfeel that turns simple soup into a creamy delight.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped finely to inject a tangy, slightly sweet brightness and vivid color.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and aromatic, balancing the creaminess and brightness.
- Dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick to brighten and add complexity.
- Baby spinach: Fresh greens that wilt into the soup, adding color and nutrition.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in at the end for that irresistible savory, salty finish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring every flavor shines through without overpowering.
- Fresh basil or parsley: For garnish, introducing a fresh herbal brightness as a final touch.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Chicken
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This step not only seals in moisture but also imparts rich flavor to the chicken, which will ultimately infuse the soup. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Next, use the same pot with all those wonderful browned bits left behind. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This fragrant base is crucial in developing the soup’s character and inviting aroma.
Step 3: Simmering the Broth
Now, add in the chicken broth, heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture up to a gentle simmer, letting all these flavors meld together beautifully over 10 minutes. This slow marriage of ingredients is where your soup really starts to shine and deepen in flavor.
Step 4: Adding the Chicken and Greens
Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with fresh baby spinach. Stir everything together as the spinach quickly wilts into the creamy broth, adding freshness and a pop of vibrant green to the soup. This simple addition instantly boosts both nutrition and visual appeal.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let the soup simmer a couple more minutes to allow the cheese to melt and fully blend into the creamy base. This step rounds out the flavors with a rich, savory depth that makes every spoonful enticing.
Step 6: Serving the Soup
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. The herbs add a burst of color and fresh aroma that perfectly finishes off this wonderfully comforting meal.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley not only makes the soup look vibrant but also adds that fresh, herbaceous lift that complements the creamy and savory notes perfectly. For an extra indulgence, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few Parmesan shavings can make each bowl feel like a special treat.
Side Dishes
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop of the creamy broth. For something heartier, garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks can add a flavorful contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the soup in small, rustic bowls with a Parmesan crisp perched on the rim. You might also ladle it into mini bread bowls for a charming and edible presentation that guests will adore. Pairing the soup with a colorful side of roasted veggies can add texture and a pop of color to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the soup is creamy, give it a good stir when reheating to help recombine any separation that might occur. This makes it perfect for enjoying on busy days when you want something comforting without fuss.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but with a little care. To preserve texture, freeze the soup before adding spinach and Parmesan cheese. Simply store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then add fresh spinach and Parmesan as you reheat.
Reheating
Warm the soup gently over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or curdling. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much. Adding fresh spinach just before serving keeps the greens bright and fresh-tasting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are preferred for their tenderness, boneless thighs can also work and will add extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
Is this soup spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes that add a pleasant little kick if you like spice. If you prefer mild flavors, simply leave them out and enjoy a creamy, savory soup with mild herbs instead.
Can I substitute heavy cream for something lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the soup won’t be as rich or creamy. To maintain thickness, consider adding a spoonful of flour or cornstarch slurry while simmering.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness and depth of flavor that elevate this soup. If you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with a small amount of tomato paste or fresh tomatoes, but it won’t be quite the same signature taste.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or white beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort food with a gourmet feel. Its balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors coupled with simple preparation creates a soup you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this warm, savory bowl that just might inspire you to cook full of love.
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Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup featuring tender bites of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese in a rich broth. This comforting soup comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Chicken and Spinach: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the baby spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, incorporating freshness and nutrients into the soup.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to enrich the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a vibrant and aromatic finish.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter soup.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add extra richness; if using dry-packed, soak them in warm water before chopping.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level or omit for a milder flavor.
- For a low-sodium version, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt accordingly.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
