The chilly evening air called for something more than just a quick takeout. As I wandered into the kitchen, the thought of enveloping myself in a blanket of warmth and flavor led me to my pot of Marry Me Chicken Soup. This isn’t just any ordinary chicken soup; it’s a decadent hug in a bowl, blending creamy richness with the tangy allure of sun-dried tomatoes and the savory kick of Parmesan. The tender chicken mingles effortlessly with just the right medley of vegetables, creating a dish that promises to please your loved ones or simply elevate a cozy night at home. What’s even better? It’s entirely adaptable, allowing you to swap ingredients or add your favorite flavors. So grab your pot, and let’s create a comforting masterpiece that might just lead to a love declaration at your dinner table!
Why is Marry Me Chicken Soup irresistible?
Irresistible Comfort: The creamy texture and rich flavors make every spoonful a delight, perfect for those chilly nights.
Customizable Goodness: Easily adapt this recipe to your personal taste by swapping ingredients or adding your favorites, ensuring it’s always a hit.
Simplicity of Preparation: With straightforward steps, everyone can make this comforting soup—no culinary degree required!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or even a romantic evening at home, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
Meal Prep Friendly: With easy storage and reheat options, enjoy this flavorsome delight for days to come. Consider exploring other comforting options like a classic chicken noodle soup for diversity!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Get ready for delicious comfort with these key components!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps brown the chicken; feel free to use any neutral cooking oil if that’s what you have on hand.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1.5 lbs) – The main protein of this Marry Me Chicken Soup, providing flavor and substance; substitute with pork loin for something different.
- Italian Seasoning (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor complexity; you can swap it with a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for a unique twist.
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
For the Veggies
- Carrots (1/2 cup, diced) – Brings in sweetness and vibrant color; consider using parsnips if you’re looking for a unique substitute.
- Celery (1/2 cup, diced) – Offers a delightful crunch and pairs beautifully with other veggies.
- Yellow Onion (1/2 cup, diced) – Provides a fragrant base that adds depth; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/4 cup, diced) – Infuses a tangy, rich flavor into the mix; fresh tomatoes can lighten the dish, if preferred.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For that aromatic boost; substitute with garlic powder if you’re out of fresh garlic.
For Thickening and Flavor
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup) – This will help you achieve that beautiful creamy texture; cornstarch is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp, optional) – Enhances the overall tomato flavor; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (6 cups) – The base liquid that adds depth; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
For Heartiness and Creaminess
- Small Pasta (6 oz, e.g., shells or orzo) – Adds that cozy texture to the soup; rice or gluten-free pasta can be excellent alternatives.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Provides that luxurious creaminess; coconut milk or a dairy-free cream can lighten it up if desired.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 to 1 cup) – Acts as a flavor enhancer; feel free to omit for a dairy-free option or use a substitute.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season well with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, cook the diced carrots, celery, and onion for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Then, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
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Make Roux: Stir in the flour and tomato paste (if using) for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, mixing well. Season with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Add Cream, Chicken, and Pasta: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the small pasta. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Optional: Top with fresh herbs for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations
Embrace your creative side and tailor this comforting soup to suit your palate with these fun twists!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream to keep the soup rich yet light.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and swap chicken for cannellini beans or diced mushrooms for a hearty, meatless option that still satisfies.
- Pasta Switch: Instead of small pasta, use zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a refreshing twist, or go gluten-free with rice or quinoa.
- Heat It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a delightful kick to the soup, perfect for those who love a little spice!
- Extra Veggies: Toss in greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and a vibrant color boost.
- Herb-Infused: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh herbs such as basil or thyme while cooking for a fragrant finish.
- Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest right before serving for a citrusy brightness that brightens all the flavors.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Alternative: For a lighter taste, substitute sun-dried tomatoes with diced fresh tomatoes, adjusting the quantity to maintain the flavor balance.
These variations turn a classic recipe into a personal favorite you’ll love to recreate!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the soup base—sautéing the chicken and vegetables—up to 24 hours in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a pot on the stove, gradually whisk in the cream, return the chicken, and add cooked pasta, simmering until heated through. For optimal quality, avoid combining the pasta and cream until just before serving to maintain the best texture. This approach makes dinner a breeze, ensuring your warm, comforting soup is just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, store in portions to make reheating easy, but note that pasta may swell upon thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge; flavors develop even further, making the Marry Me Chicken Soup even more delightful on the second day!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Brown the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is well-browned for maximum flavor. This step adds depth, making your Marry Me Chicken Soup truly irresistible.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go. Start with seasoning, and adjust it after adding ingredients like Parmesan cheese to achieve the perfect balance.
- Mind the Creamy Texture: To preserve the delightful creaminess, avoid boiling the soup after adding the heavy cream. Gentle simmering is key!
- Store Wisely: When storing leftovers, keep the pasta separate if possible. This prevents it from swelling and getting mushy when reheated.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or spices. This soup is adaptable, letting you create a personalized version of Marry Me Chicken Soup.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Gather your loved ones and create a cozy meal experience filled with delightful flavors that embrace the heart.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the warm, crusty bread adds a satisfying texture to each spoonful.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing bring a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, enhancing your dining experience.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights are irresistible and pair wonderfully with the creamy nature of the soup.
For something sweeter, consider a light dessert.
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Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that adds a touch of brightness after the comforting richness of the soup.
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Apple Crisp: Warm fruit and sweet, crumbly topping offer a perfect ending to your meal, harmonizing with the hearty soup flavors.
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Glass of White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy chicken soup beautifully, enhancing the dining experience.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken for Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you’re looking for something with a bit more moisture, thighs are the way to go. Make sure the chicken is fresh, with no dark spots or unpleasant odor. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
What is the best way to store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Very! Place leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the soup cool completely before sealing to retain freshness. If you’re storing for longer, consider freezing it!
How can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup properly?
You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Here’s how: allow the soup to cool completely, then divide into portions and place in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
Why is my Marry Me Chicken Soup too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your soup turns out too thick, you can gradually whisk in a bit of chicken broth or water over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. On the other hand, if it ends up too thin, simply allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed after making adjustments!
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup dairy-free?
For sure! To adapt this recipe for a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any preferred dairy-free cream alternative. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting soup, regardless of dietary restrictions!
Is this soup pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Soup are generally safe for pets, it’s best to avoid sharing with them due to the seasoning and any added salt. You can set aside unseasoned pieces of chicken for your furry friends if you’d like to treat them!
Marry Me Chicken Soup: The Creamy Love in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season well with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the diced carrots, celery, and onion for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Then, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and tomato paste (if using) for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, mixing well. Season with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the small pasta. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.