Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. This delightful soup brings comfort with every spoonful. Packed with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, creamy cheese, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that’s full of love. Perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress someone special, this soup has a name that hints at its deliciousness. Let’s dive into how you can create this warm hug in a bowl!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs)
- 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 32 oz or 2 packages chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat)
- 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature)
- 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)
Directions:
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Build the Base: Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste deepens in color.
Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, cream, basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 12 minutes.
Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Make It Creamy & Delicious: Lower the heat to low, then stir in spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir often for 5 minutes until the cheeses melt and the chicken is warmed through.
Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serve this comforting soup hot in bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle more Parmesan and fresh basil on top. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Soup
You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. When you want to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Use fresh spinach for a brighter flavor.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots or celery for more texture.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can replace the rotisserie chicken with shredded turkey or even use plant-based chicken for a vegetarian option. You can also swap the shell pasta for any other pasta shape you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or cheddar can work if you prefer a different flavor.
Is this recipe healthy?
While it does contain cream and cheese, you can use lighter alternatives like reduced-fat cream cheese or low-fat milk to make it healthier.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave out the pasta before freezing, as it may become mushy when reheated. Add fresh pasta when you are ready to serve.