As I stirred the pot, the air filled with inviting aromas that wrapped around me like a warm hug. That’s the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup, a heartwarming dish that effortlessly blends tender rotisserie chicken with sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy Parmesan broth. This one-pot wonder not only offers quick prep time, making it a perfect weekday meal, but it also guarantees to impress anyone who gets a taste. You’ll love how the silky texture and comforting flavors come together to create a bowl of happiness, all with minimal fuss in the kitchen. Ready to elevate your dinner game and make someone swoon? Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that’s bound to bring everyone around the table!
Why is Marry Me Chicken Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Simplicity: This recipe simplifies your weeknight cooking with a delicious one-pot format—less mess, less stress!
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy Parmesan broth and tangy sun-dried tomatoes offer a depth of flavor you won’t forget.
Quick Prep Time: With ready-to-eat rotisserie chicken, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with garlic bread for a cozy dinner or serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light lunch. If you love this, don’t miss out on my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for more comforting deliciousness!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Guaranteed to impress family or friends, it’s a recipe destined to become a favorite at any gathering!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a tangy sweetness and depth to the broth. Use jarred tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.
• Oil from Sun-Dried Tomato Jar – Enhances the dish’s flavor—do not skip this!
• Chopped Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and an aromatic base.
• Garlic (Minced) – Adds flavor; the more fragrant this is, the better!
• Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Chicken Broth (32 oz or 2 packages) – Base of the soup; can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup) – Delivers creaminess; can replace with half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Fresh Basil (4 tsp, plus more for garnish) – Offers freshness and scent; dried basil is an alternative in a pinch but fresh is preferred.
• Kosher Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (1.5 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor; can use a homemade mix if preferred.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Extra flavor; adjust based on garlic preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper (¼ tsp or more) – Adds spice; control the heat based on preference.
For Added Heartiness
• Uncooked Medium Shell Pasta (8 oz) – Provides heartiness; can substitute with orecchiette or ditalini.
• Fresh Baby Spinach (3 cups, roughly chopped) – Adds color and nutrition; can replace with kale or Swiss chard.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (2 cups) – Convenience and flavor—freshly cooked chicken can also be used.
For Creamy Goodness
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, room temperature) – Adds creaminess; make sure to soften it before use to prevent clumping.
• Parmesan Cheese (1.5 oz, plus more for garnish) – Complements richness; a good quality cheese will enhance flavor.
Dive into this Marry Me Chicken Soup preparation knowing you have everything you need to create a warm, inviting dish that will keep you and your loved ones satisfied!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, creating a lovely aromatic base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 2: Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the tomato paste to deepen in color and flavor, creating a rich foundation for the soup that will tantalize your taste buds.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by heavy whipping cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked medium shell pasta to the simmering broth, reducing the heat to medium-low. Cook for an additional 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of that delicious broth, making your Marry Me Chicken Soup hearty and satisfying.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat to low and stir in the roughly chopped fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, room temperature cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well for about 5 minutes until everything is melted and heated through, creating a creamy and velvety consistency that brings this soup to life.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the warm Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color. This rich, comforting dish is perfect alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad, making it a delightful meal sure to please everyone around the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Soup components can be prepped ahead to streamline your meal planning! You can chop the onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and store it separately in a sealed container, allowing for quick assembly when you’re ready to eat. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the chicken broth and cream in a pot, simmer until heated through, and add the cream cheese and spinach. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush, and it will still taste just as delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping the creamy goodness fresh for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Thawing: To enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this delightful soup to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian: Switch out the shredded chicken for chickpeas or white beans. This hearty alternative provides protein while keeping the base rich and satisfying.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese and heavy whipping cream with coconut cream. You’ll retain a lovely creaminess with a hint of tropical delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper or some diced jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust the spice to your liking—the warmth will excite your palate!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. A little herbaceous lift can transform the entire flavor profile.
- Cheese Swap: Try using a smoky cheese like Gouda or a sharp cheese like blue cheese for a flavor boost. Each offers a unique, luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the soup.
- Pasta Alternatives: Swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and texture. These veggies will bring extra color and a delightful crunch to your comforting bowl.
- Zesty Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving for an invigorating brightness. This little touch can revitalize the flavors and make the soup pop!
Whichever variation you choose, let the warmth of this Marry Me Chicken Soup bring joy to your dining experience! If you’re looking for more cozy options, don’t miss my Ranch Chicken Crock recipe. Enjoy cooking!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Temperature Matters: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the soup to prevent any clumps from forming.
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Smooth Consistency: Stir the cream cheese against the pot’s side if it becomes difficult to blend; patience is key for the perfect creamy texture in your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
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Flavor Balance: Start with less crushed red pepper if you’re sensitive to spice, and gradually add more to suit your taste—this way, everyone can enjoy the dish!
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Pasta Precautions: Be mindful of the pasta type you use; check the cooking times on the package and adjust your simmering time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
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Herb Freshness: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil instead of dried to elevate the flavor profile of your Marry Me Chicken Soup!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
As the steam rises and the aroma wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to round out your meal with delightful accompaniments.
- Garlic Bread: The ultimate companion for this creamy soup, perfect for soaking up every velvety drop.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience with vibrant colors and nutrition.
- Cheesy Crusty Rolls: Soft on the inside and crusty on the outside, these rolls are perfect for dipping into that rich broth.
- White Wine: A chilled glass elevates the comfort of dinner, balancing the richness of the creamy soup beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted seasonal veggies for an earthy touch; their caramelized flavors harmonize with the soup’s creaminess.
- Pasta Primavera: This light and colorful side dish echoes the pasta in the soup while providing additional texture and freshness.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche can turn your meal into a brunch affair, offering a lovely variety of textures and flavors.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a fruity sorbet provides a refreshing contrast after the comforting soup, cleansing the palate and ending on a sweet note.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this onto your bread or salad, adding a depth of flavor that ties all elements of the meal together.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use jarred sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. These will add a tangy sweetness and depth to your Marry Me Chicken Soup that dried tomatoes alone cannot provide. If you only have dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate before using.
How should I store leftovers of this creamy soup?
Very simple! Store 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, reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Of course! To freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost function. Reheat on the stovetop, making sure to stir in some extra broth if needed to maintain that creamy goodness.
What should I do if my cream cheese clumps?
It’s a common issue, but don’t worry! If your cream cheese starts to clump while stirring it into your Marry Me Chicken Soup, gently press the clumps against the pot’s side with a spoon. Keep stirring over low heat until it melts and blends smoothly. To prevent this from happening, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before using it.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy (cream cheese, Parmesan) and gluten (pasta). If you’re cooking for someone with gluten intolerance, consider using gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free options, you can experiment with plant-based cream cheese and dairy alternatives to achieve a similar creamy consistency in your Marry Me Chicken Soup. Always check labels if cooking for someone with allergies!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Your Heart Will Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by heavy whipping cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 12 minutes.
- Add the uncooked medium shell pasta to the simmering broth, reducing the heat to medium-low. Cook for an additional 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat to low and stir in the roughly chopped fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, room temperature cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well for about 5 minutes until everything is melted and heated through.
- Ladle the warm Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
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