Marry Me Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Marry Me Chicken Soup: the name alone promises a dish so irresistible, so comforting, that it might just inspire a proposal! But beyond the charming moniker lies a truly exceptional soup, one that’s quickly becoming a modern classic. Forget slaving away in the kitchen for hours; this creamy, dreamy soup comes together surprisingly quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend lunches.

While the exact origins of “Marry Me Chicken” (the soup’s predecessor) are debated, its popularity exploded online, fueled by its rich flavor profile and ease of preparation. The original chicken recipe, typically featuring sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese, was so beloved that variations began to emerge, including this delightful soup version. It captures the essence of the original dish in a warm, comforting bowl.

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup so universally appealing? It’s the perfect balance of creamy richness, savory chicken, and bright, tangy sun-dried tomatoes. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables create a satisfying texture, while the creamy broth envelops your taste buds in pure comfort. It’s a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to create your own signature version. Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make soup!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large, chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 cup, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, plus more for garnish
• Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or more, to taste)
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped, plus more for garnish
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
• Pasta: 8 ounces ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape)
• Spinach: 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics:

1. First, season your chicken. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Be generous! This is your foundation of flavor.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the soup ingredients later.
3. Add the chicken to the pot in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd it. You might need to do this in batches. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Browning the chicken is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor. Don’t skip this step!
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Don’t worry about it being fully cooked through at this point; it will finish cooking in the soup.
5. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
7. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the onion and garlic. The sun-dried tomatoes add a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness.

Building the Soup:

1. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits, called fond, are packed with flavor and will add richness to your soup.
2. Return the browned chicken to the pot.
3. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. I prefer to cook it separately to prevent it from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Finishing Touches:

1. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. The cream adds richness and the Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy flavor.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add the cooked pasta and chopped spinach to the soup. Stir until the spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
5. Stir in the fresh basil.

Serving:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, omit them altogether.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Add them along with the onion.
• Pasta: You can use any small pasta shape you like, such as orzo, elbow macaroni, or small shells.
• Chicken: You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of chicken thighs. Add it to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier soup, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
• Wine: For a deeper flavor, add 1/2 cup of dry white wine to the pot after cooking the onions and garlic. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce before adding the chicken broth.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream to reduce the fat content. The soup won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you may need to add a little more broth when reheating.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, the pasta may become slightly mushy after thawing. To minimize this, cook the pasta al dente and add it to the soup after thawing.

Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken Soup?”

The name “Marry Me Chicken Soup” comes from the idea that this soup is so delicious, it will convince anyone to marry you! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. While I can’t guarantee a proposal, I can guarantee a delicious meal!

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Crusty bread for dipping
• A side salad
• Garlic bread

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Marry Me Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken soup recipe; it’s a bowlful of comfort, a hug in a mug, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out, and honestly, who doesn’t need a little more of that in their life? The creamy, sun-dried tomato infused broth, the tender chicken, and the perfectly cooked noodles all come together in a symphony of flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. This Marry Me Chicken Soup is truly special, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize it to your liking. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Craving more veggies? Throw in some chopped spinach, kale, or even some roasted red peppers for an extra layer of flavor. For a richer, more decadent experience, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end. If you’re watching your carbs, you can easily swap out the egg noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions? I love to serve this soup with a crusty piece of bread for dipping into that luscious broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup perfectly. For a more substantial meal, you could even add some grilled chicken or shrimp on top. And don’t forget the garnish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness. A swirl of cream or a drizzle of olive oil also elevates the presentation.

I know there are a million chicken soup recipes out there, but trust me when I say that this one is different. It’s the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and ease, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I’ve made it countless times, and it always receives rave reviews.

Why You Need This Soup in Your Life

This soup isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the experience. It’s about the warmth that spreads through your body with each spoonful, the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, and the smiles it brings to the faces of those you share it with. It’s about creating memories and sharing moments of joy around the table.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the magic of this Marry Me Chicken Soup. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Share Your Creations!

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and let me know what you think. Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear about your experiences. Happy cooking! I’m confident that this will become your go-to chicken soup recipe.