As I stirred the pot, a deliciously fragrant aroma wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. This is the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup, a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace with its creamy goodness and heartwarming flavors. Combining tender rotisserie chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and a velvety Parmesan broth, this easy recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. In under an hour, you can create a masterpiece that not only delights the taste buds but also warms the soul. Are you ready to discover a new family favorite that might just inspire joyful vows at the dinner table?
Why is this soup your new favorite?
Comforting, creamy goodness: Marry Me Chicken Soup delivers all the warmth of a classic dish with a delightful twist. Easy to make: In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious meal without the hassle. Flavor explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a rich taste that will make your taste buds sing. Versatile: Customize with gluten-free pasta or extra veggies to suit your family’s preferences. Perfect for gatherings: This crowd-pleaser is sure to impress guests and make any occasion feel special.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy flavor; substitute with fresh tomatoes if desired, adjusting water or broth accordingly.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Oil – Provides a robust base for sautéing; use olive oil as an alternative if needed.
- Chopped Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses a savory aroma; use garlic powder (1/4 tsp = 1 clove) if in a pinch.
- Tomato Paste – Enhances the soup’s richness; substitute with equal parts crushed tomatoes for a different texture.
- Chicken Broth (32 oz) – Foundation for the soup’s flavor; homemade broth can elevate the dish’s depth.
For Creaminess
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Provides a creamy texture; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute.
- Cream Cheese (room temperature) – Helps thicken and enrich the broth; Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese (finely shredded) – Enhances flavor and creaminess; swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
For Seasoning and Spice
- Fresh Basil – Adds a fresh herbal note; use dried basil (1 tsp) as a substitute if necessary.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust based on dietary restrictions.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Complements the flavors; omit if using fresh herbs for more vibrant tastes.
- Garlic Powder – Adds additional garlicky flavor; omit if fresh garlic is used in greater amounts.
- Crushed Red Pepper – Introduces heat; reduce or omit if spice is not preferred.
For the Heartiness
- Uncooked Medium Shell Pasta – Acts as a hearty component; substitute with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; kale is a great substitute for a different texture.
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Provides protein and convenience; use cooked chicken breast or thighs if preferred.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, stirring frequently. This aromatic base will infuse the Marry Me Chicken Soup with depth and flavor.
Step 2: Build Base
Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the tomato paste to deepen in color and flavor, creating a rich backdrop for the soup. Keep stirring to prevent sticking while the mixture melds beautifully together.
Step 3: Simmer Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy whipping cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 12 minutes. As it simmers, the flavors will come together in a harmonious harmony.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
Add the uncooked medium shell pasta to the simmering broth and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and perfectly al dente. The pasta will absorb some of the lovely flavors of the Marry Me Chicken Soup as it cooks.
Step 5: Make Creamy
Lower the heat further and gently stir in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and finely shredded Parmesan. Stir continuously for approximately 5 minutes until the cream cheese and cheese melt completely, creating a velvety finish to your comforting bowl of soup.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and additional crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately alongside crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a warm and delicious meal that wraps its love around you.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
-
Perfect Pasta Timing: Cooking pasta directly in the soup adds flavor, but make sure it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheating later.
-
Creamy Consistency: Always use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending; if it clumps, press against the pot’s side while stirring for a smoother result.
-
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes! They bring a depth of flavor that is essential to the Marry Me Chicken Soup. If fresh tomatoes are preferred, adjust broth quantities slightly.
-
Aspire for Authenticity: For extra richness, try using homemade chicken broth; it makes a world of difference in flavor depth. Store-bought is fine, but make sure you’re using a quality brand.
-
Seasonal Variations: Mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and to keep your Marry Me Chicken Soup exciting. Experiment with different veggies per your taste!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
The delightful creaminess and robust flavors of this soup create a wonderful foundation for a full and satisfying meal.
- Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, its crispy exterior and soft, buttery inside are ideal for soaking up every last drop of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a refreshing crunch to the rich flavors of the soup, balancing the meal.
- Steamed Green Beans: Tender, vibrant green beans will provide a nice contrast in texture, plus a touch of freshness to light up the dish.
- Parmesan Risotto: The creamy, cheesy risotto mirrors the soup’s texture, creating a luxurious, comforting experience for your palate.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa: Packed with protein and zest, this fluffy quinoa adds a healthy, nutty element, enhancing your overall dining experience.
- Zucchini Fritters: These crispy delights are a fun way to introduce some vegetables, adding a savory bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied red offers an elegant pairing, enhancing the deep flavors of the soup while adding warmth to your meal.
- Panna Cotta: For a sweet finish, this creamy Italian dessert delivers a light touch of sweetness, balancing the savory nature of the soup.
Make Ahead Options
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a fantastic dish for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the soup base (aromatics and broth) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and the rest of the ingredients except the pasta and cream cheese. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the soup on the stove and add uncooked pasta to cook in the simmering broth for about 12 minutes. Stir in the cream cheese at the end to ensure it remains creamy. This approach keeps your soup just as delicious and comforting!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store your Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding more broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Cool the soup completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat leftover soup on low heat, stirring occasionally to combine all ingredients well and penetrate with warmth.
Portioning: Consider freezing in single-serve portions for quick and convenient meals. That way, you can have comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup ready whenever you need it!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free alternative that still delivers richness.
- Gluten-Free: Consider using gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting soup.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed soup, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Swap: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor experience.
- Spicy Twist: Increase crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or add diced jalapeños for an extra level of heat, perfect if you love a bit of fire in your dish!
- Italian Flair: Sprinkle in some Italian sausage for an added flavor boost; it complements the chicken beautifully and enhances the heartiness of the soup!
- Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, giving it a tangy twist while still keeping it creamy.
- Chicken Variations: Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken in place of shredded rotisserie chicken, offering a fantastic way to repurpose extras from family gatherings.
Whether you enjoy it as is or with one of these adaptations, you’re in for a tasty experience! If you’d like to pair it with something delightful, consider serving with some crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for that perfect meal balance. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my sun-dried tomatoes are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for vibrant colors and a slightly chewy texture. They should not have dark spots all over or feel overly dry. If using fresh tomatoes instead, go for ones that are firm and fragrant, avoiding any signs of blemishes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Soup?
You can easily store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency. If you find it has thickened too much, don’t worry—just stir in more broth until it’s back to your desired texture!
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Very! To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on low heat while stirring frequently until heated through. This step will help maintain that wonderful creamy texture!
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If your Marry Me Chicken Soup is thicker than expected, simply add more chicken broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency. Stir the addition in thoroughly while heating it on low. If you find the flavor diluted, add a touch of cream or Parmesan cheese to bring back that rich taste.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Sure! To make it more inclusive, consider using gluten-free pasta if you have gluten sensitivities. For a dairy-free option, replace the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and a non-dairy yogurt. Always ensure any substitutes fit your dietary restrictions, especially with ingredients like chicken broth, which may contain allergens.
Can I add more vegetables to Marry Me Chicken Soup?
The more the merrier! You can certainly add seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even peas to your soup. Just chop them into small pieces and add them during the simmering phase for even cooking. This is a great way to boost nutrition and customize the soup to your family’s preferences!
Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Cozy, Creamy Love in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the tomato paste to deepen in color and flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy whipping cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 12 minutes.
- Add the uncooked medium shell pasta to the simmering broth and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Lower the heat further and gently stir in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and finely shredded Parmesan. Stir continuously for approximately 5 minutes until the cream cheese and cheese melt completely.
- Ladle the rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Leave a Reply