There’s a certain magic when a bowl of creamy soup warms your hands and fills your home with the alluring fragrance of comfort. Marry Me Chicken Soup is the kind of dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also charms everyone at the table. Featuring tender rotisserie chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe blends the best of American and Italian cuisines. It’s a fantastic quick-prep meal, ready in under an hour, perfect for those cozy nights when you want something heartwarming yet effortless. Plus, it’s a delight to enjoy as leftovers, with flavors that only get better over time. Ready to stir up something special in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this love-at-first-sip experience!
Why is this soup so irresistible?
Comforting Flavor: This Marry Me Chicken Soup brings together a delightful mix of creamy broth and tender chicken, making each bowl a warm embrace.
Quick Prep: Within just an hour, you can create a restaurant-quality dish, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering of friends, this soup has an incredible knack for impressing everyone at the table.
Delicious Leftovers: The flavors deepen and develop even more overnight, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep.
Versatile Ingredients: Want a twist? Feel free to swap in different greens or pasta shapes, like in my Chicken Shawarma Cozy or Cheesy Dynamite Chicken recipes. You can personalize it endlessly!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Discover what makes this soup a love-at-first-sip delight!
For the Soup Base
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor for depth.
- Olive Oil – Enhances flavor when sautéing; can use any neutral oil if preferred.
- Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet and savory base; shallots can be a milder substitute.
- Garlic – Infuses with rich aroma; opt for fresh for the best flavor.
- Tomato Paste – Deepens the tomato flavor, an essential for our Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- Chicken Broth – The main liquid foundation; low-sodium is great for salt control.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Contributes to creaminess; half-and-half makes a lighter option.
For the Flavor Boost
- Fresh Basil – Adds brightness; dried basil can substitute in a pinch (1 tsp).
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Brings a blend of herb flavors; can replace with oregano or thyme.
- Garlic Powder – Offers concentrated flavor; fresh garlic is always preferable.
- Crushed Red Pepper – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
For Texture and Heartiness
- Medium Shell Pasta – Provides a delightful chewiness; consider orecchiette or ditalini as alternatives.
- Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds nutrition and vibrant color; replace with kale for a heartier green.
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Conveniently flavorful; any cooked chicken will do.
- Cream Cheese – Delivers a silky texture; ensure it’s at room temperature to melt smoothly.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory umami notes; freshly grated is the best choice.
Prepare to create a soup that not only nourishes but also warms the heart!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent. This aromatic base sets the delicious foundation for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 2: Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes, and let them cook together for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the color of the tomato paste deepening, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup. Make sure to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot to incorporate every bit of flavor.
Step 3: 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. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly. Let it simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes, watching for bubbles, to meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the medium shell pasta to the simmering broth and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step will add a pleasing texture to the Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Now, stir in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, ensuring the cream cheese melts smoothly into the soup and everything is well combined. The soup should take on a luscious, creamy consistency at this stage.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the warm Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side for a complete and satisfying meal that your loved ones will adore.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: This delicious soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
Thawing: To enjoy, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop, stirring gently, and add a little broth if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions: Consider adding fresh Parmesan and basil just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before use; it will melt more easily into the soup, preventing clumps.
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Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of crushed red pepper. You can always add more later as the soup simmers.
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Pasta Preparation: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks! Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, which can throw off the delightful texture of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
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Using Rotisserie Chicken: For easy prep, a shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal. Just ensure it’s adequately shredded to blend seamlessly into the soup.
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Flavor Boost: If you’re looking for more depth, add a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic, cooking it off before adding the broth. This extra layer of flavor will elevate your soup experience.
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Storage Made Easy: Leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
Picture a cozy evening, where the warmth of a delicious soup wraps around you like a soft blanket, inviting you to enjoy every comforting bite.
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Garlic Bread: The perfect crunchy companion to soak up that velvety broth, bringing an irresistible aroma to your meal.
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Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens and tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the creamy soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory notes in the soup, providing delightful texture and flavor variations.
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Caesar Salad: With its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, this classic salad enhances the overall comfort food experience.
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Cheesy Biscuit: Fluffy and warm, these biscuits are perfect for dipping and will have you reaching for seconds.
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Sparkling Water: A fizzy drink can cleanse the palate beautifully between spoonfuls, adding a refreshing lift to the meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich and creamy sweet treat beautifully contrasts with the hearty soup, ensuring a delightful finish to your meal.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to infuse your own creativity into this delightful soup and make it uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative to achieve that creamy texture without the dairy. Your soup will still be rich and comforting!
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Whole Grain Pasta: Swap the medium shell pasta for whole grain or quinoa pasta to boost fiber and add a nutty flavor. A healthy twist that won’t compromise the heartiness of your dish.
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Added Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a lovely splash of color!
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Spicy Kick: If you crave some heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper. This version will wake up your taste buds and add some excitement to your meal!
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Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of fresh lemon zest just before serving brightens the entire dish. It’s a delightful contrast with the creaminess and adds a refreshing twist to the flavor.
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Pesto Twist: Blend in a few tablespoons of basil pesto to amplify the herbaceous notes. This adds a gourmet flair reminiscent of my delicious Mediterranean Chicken Gyros recipe, creating an unforgettable experience.
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Rotisserie Chicken Variants: Experiment with different flavors of rotisserie chicken. A smoky or lemon-pepper rotisserie chicken can give your soup an unexpected twist that makes it even tastier!
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Beans for Heartiness: Add a can of white beans for extra protein and fiber. It transforms this comforting soup into a heartier meal, much like the filling goodness found in my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
No matter how you choose to personalize your Marry Me Chicken Soup, each version promises a cozy embrace that’s sure to warm your heart!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the aromatics (onions and garlic) and combine the soup base (tomato paste, broth, and cream) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it until you’re ready to finish cooking. The pasta and spinach can also be added just before serving to maintain their texture and freshness. When ready to enjoy, simply bring the prepared soup base to a gentle boil, stir in the uncooked pasta, and simmer until tender, then mix in the chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan for that rich, creamy finish. Your hearty, love-at-first-sip soup will taste just as delicious, saving you stress on busy weeknights!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs. These will add a tangy and slightly sweet touch to your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
How should I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Store your leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain that creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth if necessary to restore the creaminess.
What if my cream cheese doesn’t melt smoothly?
No problem! If your cream cheese clumps up, simply press it against the side of the pot with a wooden spoon to break it up. If it’s too cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using; it will melt more easily. This should help achieve that luscious, velvety texture in your soup.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version. For gluten-free options, swap out the medium shell pasta for gluten-free varieties. Always check labels for any allergens, especially for the chicken broth and cream cheese!
What pasta alternatives can I use?
The more the merrier! While medium shell pasta is traditionally used, you can easily substitute it with orecchiette or ditalini. Both work well in the soup and can give different textures. Just ensure the cooking times align for the best results.
Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love at First Bite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste and julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes, and let them cook together for about 2 minutes.
- 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. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes.
- Add the medium shell pasta to the simmering broth and cook for 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes.
- Ladle the warm Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
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