There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup on a chilly evening. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, this soup takes the best parts of a classic chicken dish and transforms them into a hearty meal that'll win anyone's heart.
The first time I made this soup, it was for a date night at home, and it quickly became a favorite. It's easy to see why people say it has "marry me" qualities – the rich blend of creamy broth, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into why this soup is about to become your new go-to comfort recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Get ready to fall head over heels for this recipe! Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for any occasion – from weeknight dinners to impressing someone special.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and less than an hour of your time, you can create a dish that tastes like it simmered all day.
Second, the flavors are unforgettable. Creamy garlic broth, juicy chicken, and a touch of sundried tomato sweetness come together in a way that feels decadent without being too heavy.
Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is bound to be a hit. It’s also customizable – you can adjust the ingredients to suit any palate or dietary need.
Lastly, leftovers are just as good – if not better – the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect meal-prep option for busy weeks.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup comes from its thoughtful combination of ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delicious dish.
Chicken is the star of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but thighs bring a richness that makes the soup extra satisfying.
Sundried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth. Be sure to use the oil-packed variety, as they’re more flavorful and easier to chop.
Heavy cream is what gives this soup its luscious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk will work, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Chicken broth forms the base of the soup. Using low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness and ensures the other ingredients shine.
Parmesan cheese is a must for adding savory depth. Grate it fresh for the best flavor, and don’t be shy – a little extra never hurts!
You’ll also need garlic, onions, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring it all together. These ingredients infuse the soup with a cozy, comforting aroma that’s simply irresistible.
No special equipment is needed for this recipe – just a sturdy soup pot or Dutch oven and a sharp knife for prepping your ingredients.
How to Make This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Making this soup is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to bring a bowl of warmth and love to your table.
Start by preparing your chicken. Pat the thighs dry with a paper towel, then season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant, picking up all those flavorful browned bits left behind by the chicken.
Next, stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture cook for another minute to release the spices' aroma.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Return the seared chicken to the pot and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Stir heavy cream into the soup, followed by freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and let everything simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage Options
This soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
To refrigerate, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating is simple – just warm the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Soup is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own.
- Swap the chicken thighs for turkey or even shrimp for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Use spinach or kale instead of fresh basil for a heartier, veggie-packed version.
- Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that’s still creamy and delicious.
- Add cooked pasta or rice to make the soup even more filling. Or, serve it with crusty bread for dipping!
- Spice it up with extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences. No matter how you make it, this Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to be a hit in your home.
PrintMarry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe, packed with tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and a savory broth. This irresistible dish will leave your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups spinach leaves
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, shredded chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can add pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
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