Marry Me Chicken Soup

All the creamy, dreamy flavors of Marry Me Chicken Soup come together in this cozy dish that warms your heart and soul. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or impressing guests, this soup is a delightful twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich creaminess, it’s a love-at-first-sip experience that’s sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs creates a depth of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Comforting Texture: Creamy and hearty, this soup is both satisfying and comforting—ideal for any occasion.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or customize with your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Marry Me Chicken Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering large quantities of soup without overflow.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything mixes well.

Ingredients

For this delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup, you will need:

For the Soup Base

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs)
• 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste

For the Broth

• 32 oz or 2 packages chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat)

For the Add-Ins

• 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature)
• 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
– Add onions and garlic to the pot.
– Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes.
– Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly until the tomato paste deepens in color.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper.
– Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
– Let it simmer for about 12 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked medium shell pasta to the soup.
– Reduce heat to medium-low.
– Cook for approximately 12 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Make It Creamy & Delicious

Lower the heat to low.
– Stir in chopped spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and grated Parmesan.
– Stir often for about 5 minutes until all cheeses melt and chicken is warmed through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle your delicious soup into bowls.
– Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
– Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side.

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only delectable but also provides comfort on chilly days or special gatherings! Enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this creamy soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A tangy loaf that complements the soup’s rich flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping and adds an aromatic twist.
• Baguette Slices: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, ideal for sopping up the broth.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella highlight Italian flavors.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed greens balance the richness of the soup.

As a Standalone Meal

• Topped with Extra Parmesan: Enhances flavor and adds a delightful texture.
• Garnished with Fresh Basil: Brightens each bowl and adds herbal notes.

With Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: A smooth white wine that complements creamy dishes.
• Pinot Noir: Light-bodied red that adds depth without overwhelming flavors.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To make your Marry Me Chicken Soup even more delightful, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality broth make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak salt and spices.
• Cook Pasta Separately if Needed: If you prefer your pasta al dente, cook it separately and add just before serving.
• Blend for a Creamier Texture: For an ultra-smooth soup, blend part of it before adding back the chicken.
• Store Properly for Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Pesto Pasta Salad: A cold side dish that contrasts well with the warm soup.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits add a savory note that’s perfect for dipping.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A hearty option filled with grains or meat complements the soup’s flavors.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a fresh bite alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of this delightful dish.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure you only warm it through in the soup to retain its tenderness.
• Ignoring the Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and spices as you go along for a richer flavor.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well into the soup. Always use it at room temperature for a smoother result.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on dried herbs can diminish the taste. Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish significantly.
• Adding Pasta Too Early: If you add pasta too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until the broth is simmering before adding it for perfect texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat; stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Soup that might help you out.

What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup inspired by the popular Marry Me Chicken dish. It features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich cheeses.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup in a crockpot?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for a crockpot. Combine all ingredients except for pasta and fresh spinach. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then add pasta and spinach just before serving.

How do I customize my Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also swap chicken with turkey or use different types of pasta based on your preference.

Is Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Always ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just comforting; it’s versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or meal prep option, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!