The kitchen felt like a world where comfort is crafted; someone was heating a pot of steaming goodness that instantly filled the air with warmth. That’s the exact feeling you’ll get with my Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe—a heartwarming blend of tender chicken and vibrant veggies swaddled in a dreamy, luxurious sauce. This one-pot wonder is not only a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Say goodbye to fast food cravings and hello to homemade bliss! Curious how this cozy delight transforms your dinner table into a warm embrace? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Marry Me Chicken Soup Irresistible?
Comforting Delight: This soup is the perfect remedy for chilly evenings, bringing warmth and coziness to your dinner table.
Flavorful Base: The harmonious blend of creamy sauce, aromatic garlic, and savory Italian seasoning creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Versatile Ingredients: Not only can you customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, such as trying out Garlic Butter Chicken or even using rotisserie chicken for ease, but it also adapts effortlessly to your pantry staples.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this one-pot meal in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether it’s for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup guarantees smiles and satisfied tummies. Prepare to impress everyone with this delightful dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy delight!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables. Substitution: Can use vegetable oil if preferred.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1-1½ lbs) – Main protein source, adds heartiness and depth. Substitution: Rotisserie chicken for convenience; add at the end to warm.
- Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons) – Imparts flavor to the chicken and broth. Notes: Use store-bought or homemade seasoning blend.
- Diced Carrots (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and texture. Substitution: Peas or bell peppers can be used instead.
- Diced Celery (½ cup) – Contributes crunch and flavor depth. Notes: May be omitted if disliked.
- Diced Onions (½ cup) – Adds a savory base flavor. Notes: Yellow or white onions preferred; shallots as an alternative.
- Diced Sundried Tomatoes (¼ cup) – Adds tanginess and color. Notes: Use canned tomatoes in juice or omit for fewer additives.
- Minced Garlic (3 cloves) – For a strong aromatic punch. Notes: Fresh is best; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
For Thickening and Creaminess
- Flour (¼ cup) – Thickens the soup. Substitution: Cream cheese (4 oz) for a richer texture; omit for a gluten-free version.
- Chicken Broth (6-8 cups) – Main liquid base of the soup. Notes: Start with 6 cups for a thicker consistency; adjust as needed.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup) – Creates the creamy soup base. Substitution: Half-and-half or coconut milk can work, but will affect texture.
For Heartiness & Finish
- Pasta (6 oz) – Adds heartiness to the dish. Notes: Use small shells or any preferred pasta; cook separately to prevent mushiness.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (½-1 cup) – For salty richness and depth of flavor. Notes: Can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino.
- Fresh Spinach (2½-3 cups) – Adds nutrients and color. Substitution: Kale or another leafy green can be used.
Now that you’re fully equipped with all the ingredients needed for the Marry Me Chicken Soup, let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the 1-1½ lbs of boneless chicken breasts or thighs, seasoning with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent and fragrant. Incorporate the ¼ cup of diced sundried tomatoes and 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute. This step will build a rich flavor base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly. This will help to thicken the soup. If you’d like, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste at this stage for extra depth. Cook and stir for another minute, allowing the flour to cook slightly and meld with the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Gradually whisk in 6-8 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it, capturing all those flavorful bits. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This will form the luscious base for our Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Step 5: Simmer with Pasta
Once boiling, add in 6 oz of your chosen pasta along with another sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes, keeping an eye on it to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the pasta reaches al dente doneness. This is when the flavors start to marry beautifully together.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Greens
After the chicken is cooked and pasta is ready, stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2½-3 cups of fresh spinach, and ½-1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow this to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a velvety finish. This final touch completes your comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup.
What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Embrace the warmth of cozy evenings with complementary sides that elevate your dining experience.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm, buttery delight adds a crunchy texture and rich garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side that balances the soup’s richness, toss together crisp greens with a light vinaigrette for a burst of flavor and color.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: This fluffy, aromatic rice dish provides a wonderful contrast to the soup, soaking up that luscious broth while adding herby notes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies bring vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch, complementing the smoothness of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
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Cheesy Biscuits: Soft and flaky, these buttery biscuits serve as a delightful dipping side, inviting you to enjoy every last drop of the savory broth.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of chilled wine enhances the meal experience, with the crispness of white wine cutting through the creaminess of the soup.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Round off your meal with a nostalgic treat, the warm cookies provide the perfect sweet contrast to the savory soup, inviting smiles all around.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so don’t forget to add extra broth when reheating for that comforting consistency.
Freezer: If you’d like to save it for later, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stove over low heat, adding additional broth as needed.
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if it appears too thick, ensuring a creamy and delightful Marry Me Chicken Soup experience again!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can sauté the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure and mix the flour, seasonings, and broth separately, ensuring everything is ready to go when it’s time to cook. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine the prepared ingredients in a pot, add the chicken broth, and follow the remaining cooking instructions as outlined. This method not only saves precious time but also keeps your soup just as delicious and comforting!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Pasta Precaution: Cook pasta separately if you don’t want it to become mushy in the soup, maintaining the perfect texture.
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Broth Balance: Start with 6 cups of chicken broth for a thicker soup; you can always add more as it simmers to reach your desired consistency.
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Slow Cooker Shortcut: For a hands-off method, use a slow cooker but add cream, spinach, and cheese towards the end for texture that stays creamy.
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Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavors by allowing the garlic and veggies to caramelize slightly before adding flour, creating a rich depth in your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
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Extra Creaminess: Swap flour with cream cheese for a decadent, velvety soup base; just remember to omit it for a gluten-free option.
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Season to Taste: Don’t forget to adjust seasonings with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe Variations
Feel free to personalize this comforting dish and let your creativity shine through as you whip up your Marry Me Chicken Soup!
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Kielbasa Twist: Replace chicken with kielbasa for a smoky, savory flavor that introduces a meaty richness. This swap brings a delightful twist that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Low-Carb Delight: Swap out pasta for diced potatoes or cauliflower for a hearty low-carb option. This makes the soup even more filling while staying light.
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Seafood Swap: Use shrimp or crab instead of chicken, adjusting cooking time to just 10-15 minutes to keep it tender. This adds a fresh and coastal twist to your cozy bowl.
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and boost the veggies! Try adding chickpeas or white beans alongside the carrots and celery for added protein and fiber.
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Creamy Coconut: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a unique tropical vibe. This variation will enhance the sweetness of the soup while keeping it creamy.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños, turning the heat up a notch. This kick of spice can transform the flavor profile into one that warms you from the inside out.
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Extra Greens: Incorporate additional leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Not only does this enhance the nutritional value, but it also adds a delightful color contrast.
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Pasta Alternatives: Experiment with different pasta shapes like tortellini or even rice for a change in texture. This little tweak can make your Marry Me Chicken Soup feel completely new!
Using these variations, you can take your Marry Me Chicken Soup to another level! If you’re interested in easy-to-make dishes, be sure to try out my Garlic Butter Chicken or explore the delightful tastes of Street Corn Chicken. Each brings a unique spin to your dinner table!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! For this Marry Me Chicken Soup, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for tenderness and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; just add it towards the end to warm through without overcooking.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Very! You can store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just remember that the soup may thicken slightly as it cools, so it’s a good idea to add a bit more broth or water when reheating to bring back that delightful creamy texture.
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Of course! You can freeze the Marry Me Chicken Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add additional broth as needed to revive its creamy consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No problem! If at any point your soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Just whisk it in gradually, ensuring a smooth and creamy blend without losing that wonderful flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, you can omit the flour or substitute it with cornstarch or gluten-free flour. If you’re concerned about creamy textures, using gluten-free cream cheese is a great alternative. Always ensure any broth or cheese used is gluten-free as well, and if you’re preparing this for someone with allergies, adjust the ingredients accordingly, including checking for dairy or ingredient sensitivities.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the 1-1½ lbs of boneless chicken breasts or thighs, seasoning with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent and fragrant. Incorporate the ¼ cup of diced sundried tomatoes and 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly. If you'd like, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste at this stage for extra depth. Cook and stir for another minute, allowing the flour to cook slightly and meld with the vegetables.
- Gradually whisk in 6-8 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Once boiling, add in 6 oz of your chosen pasta along with another sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes.
- After the chicken is cooked and pasta is ready, stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2½-3 cups of fresh spinach, and ½-1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow this to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
