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Marry Me Chicken Soup brings all the creamy flavor of that beloved main dish into a single, soul-warming bowl. This recipe twirls together tender chicken, bold sun-dried tomatoes, savory Parmesan, and velvety cream for a dreamy soup that is equal parts cozy and elegant. Every spoonful feels like comfort food at its finest and has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen.
I first whipped this up on a rainy night when my family needed cheering up and now we request it any time comfort is required. The layers of flavor and creamy finish always hit the spot.
Ingredients
- Sun-dried tomatoes julienne-cut packed in oil with herbs: add a sweet tangy punch and depth to the broth Choose ones with visible herbs for the most flavor
- Oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes: this infuses even more tomato essence into the base If it smells fragrant it is perfect to use
- Chopped yellow onion: builds a savory base for the soup Look for firm onions with no soft spots
- Minced garlic: brings out an aromatic kick Always opt for fresh cloves over jarred for best flavor
- Tomato paste: rich concentration for deep tomato flavor Choose a paste labeled double-concentrated for intensity
- Chicken broth: adds body and heartiness to the soup A low-sodium option lets you control saltiness
- Heavy whipping cream: delivers velvety richness Use the freshest cream you can find for a luscious finish
- Fresh basil: adds brightness and freshness Look for bright green leaves with no wilting
- Kosher salt: enhances all the other flavors Go for one with flaky crystals for even seasoning
- Dried Italian seasoning: blends together oregano thyme and rosemary for extra savoriness Check dates to ensure dried herbs are fresh
- Garlic powder: a gentle background of sweet garlic Choose a fine powder for easy mixing
- Crushed red pepper: provides the gentle kick Adjust the amount based on your heat preference and freshness for more heat
- Uncooked medium shell pasta: acts as the perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy broth Choose a sturdy pasta that holds its shape well
- Fresh baby spinach chopped: brings green freshness and a nutrition boost Look for vibrant crisp leaves
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: keeps things easy and tender Use a moist and freshly cooked bird for the best results
- Cream cheese cubed softened: for silky smoothness Let sit at room temperature before using for easier melting
- Parmesan cheese shredded: for nutty salty notes Always use freshly grated from a wedge for maximum flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat Add onions and garlic Cook slowly for about four minutes until the onions turn translucent and the garlic smells fragrant This builds the flavor foundation
- Build the Base:
- Add tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot Stir constantly over medium heat for two minutes The paste should deepen in color This step intensifies the tomatoes which is key to the soup’s flavor
- Simmer the Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth heavy cream fresh basil kosher salt Italian seasoning garlic powder and crushed red pepper Stir well Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium heat then lower heat and let it simmer for twelve minutes for the flavors to meld
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the pasta straight into the simmering soup Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for twelve minutes Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and does not stick to the bottom The pasta will soak up the magic of the broth
- Make It Creamy and Delicious:
- Turn the heat down to low Stir in baby spinach shredded chicken cream cheese and Parmesan Keep stirring gently for five minutes as the cheeses melt and everything comes together The spinach will wilt and all the ingredients will blend into a velvety soup
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls Top with more Parmesan fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh salad for the ultimate cozy meal
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When I first made this I fell in love with the sun-dried tomatoes They bring not just a pop of color but a deep tangy flavor that makes the soup taste restaurant quality My family still tells the story of how that tangy bite took us all by surprise and kept us coming back for more
Storage Tips
Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to four days Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the texture if needed For freezing ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers leave some space for expansion and freeze for up to three months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find shell pasta try orecchiette or ditalini Even orzo works well For dairy-free switch to coconut cream and leave out Parmesan For a vegetarian version use vegetable broth and swap the chicken with extra spinach or white beans If you want extra greens stir in kale or chard instead of spinach
Serving Suggestions
Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth or go for garlic bread for extra flavor A bright green salad balances out the rich soup with freshness If you enjoy wine a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc matches beautifully
Cultural and Historical Context
Marry Me Chicken originally became popular as a romantic restaurant-inspired meal known for being so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal This soup version reimagines the dish as a warming family classic Blending Italian flavors with American comfort food touches it hits all the right notes for cold nights or special gatherings
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Orecchiette, ditalini, or orzo are great options. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the crushed red pepper to suit your preference.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- → Can I substitute fresh basil with dried?
Yes, but use less dried basil since it is more concentrated than fresh. Start with half the amount.
- → Is this dish freezer friendly?
It can be frozen, though the texture of the pasta may soften. Freeze in an airtight container for best results.
- → What are ideal garnishes or sides?
Top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for balance.