Okay, friend, let me tell you about this soup. It’s not just any chicken soup; it’s *Marry Me Chicken Soup*. I know, the name is a little out there, but trust me, the flavor is so incredible, so comforting, so…well, *marriage* material, that you’ll understand instantly. If you’re a fan of that creamy, sun-dried tomato pasta – you know, the one that everyone raves about? – then prepare to meet its soup cousin. This version is even easier, even more comforting, and perfect for a chilly evening. Honestly, the first time I made this, my husband declared it “the best soup ever made in this house,” and he’s been asking for it ever since. I think you’re going to love it just as much!
What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Marry Me Chicken Soup is essentially a creamy, dreamy chicken soup taken to the next level. Think of it as your classic Chicken Noodle Soup’s sophisticated, worldly cousin. It’s packed with juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach (or kale, if you’re feeling virtuous!), and a rich, creamy broth that’s infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. The name comes from the supposedly irresistible nature of the dish – legend has it that anyone who eats it will immediately want to marry the cook. I can’t promise it will lead to a proposal, but I *can* promise it will lead to happy sighs and requests for seconds. It’s one of those recipes that just warms you from the inside out.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, let me count the ways why you’ll be obsessed with this.Marry Me Chicken Soup: What is your opinion. First, the flavor is absolutely phenomenal. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken and creamy broth. The garlic and herbs add a depth of flavor that’s just irresistible. It’s comfort food elevated. Second, it’s surprisingly simple to make. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up a batch of this deliciousness. Seriously, this is weeknight-friendly. What I love most about this is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 45 minutes, tops! And the best part? It’s even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping. It is also fairly cost-efficient. Chicken thighs are pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are things I usually have on hand anyway. You could easily adapt this with leftover rotisserie chicken to make it even faster and easier! Another reason I adore this recipe? The versatility! Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, alongside a simple salad, or even over pasta or rice for a heartier meal. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, I promise! I have tried many similar recipes, but this one is special, I think it’s the sun-dried tomato that makes it incredible.
How do I make a chicken soup?
Quick Overview
Making this Marry Me Chicken Soup: What is your favorite is easier than you think! You’ll start by sautéing some chicken thighs until they’re nicely browned. Then, you’ll add in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and broth. After a simmer, you’ll stir in the cream, Parmesan, and spinach. That’s it! It’s quick, easy, and delivers a huge flavor punch. The simplicity of this recipe is truly remarkable. It’s so straightforward that even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results. This method ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort. Ready to get started?
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Aromatics:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. I always use thighs because they stay so juicy and flavorful, but you could use chicken breasts if you prefer.
* 2 tablespoons olive oil. Use good quality olive oil, it really makes a difference.
* 4 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced is key for that strong garlic flavor!
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained. I like to buy the ones that are already julienned to save time.
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. You can also use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
* 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat). I like a little kick, but you can definitely leave this out if you’re not a fan.
* Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skimp on the seasoning, it really brings out the flavors!
For the Soup Base:
* 4 cups chicken broth. I prefer low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
* 1 cup heavy cream. This is what makes the soup so creamy and decadent! You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as rich. I’ve also tested this with full-fat coconut milk and it’s incredible!
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always best, but the pre-grated stuff works in a pinch.
* 5 ounces fresh spinach (or kale), roughly chopped. I prefer spinach because it wilts down quickly, but kale adds a nice heartiness.
What are the steps of
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides. Don’t overcook the pot. Is it necessary to do this in batches? What is the best way to brown chicken? Aim for a nice golden brown crust. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, until garlic is fragrant. What should I do if I burn garlic? At this point, the aroma should be intoxicating!
Step 3: Simmer
What is the best way to cook chicken broth? Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Can you shred chicken with a fork?
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Do not let it boil, or the cream may curdle. This is where the magic happens! What is the best soup for a velvety delight?
Step 5: Add Greens
Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will wilt quickly, so keep an eye on it. If using kale, it may take a little longer to soften.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper. How do you make sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese salty? Add more as needed. What is the best way to make a dish perfect? Serve hot and enjoy every single spoonful of this soup.Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe..
What is the best way to serve it?
This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe.Is it good on its own, but even better with the right accompaniments?For a Cozy Night In:Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that delicious broth. What are some good grilled cheese sandwich ideas?For a dinner party:Start with a light salad and then serve the soup as your main course. What is a good pairing of white and red wine?For Lunch:What are the best mid-day meals to pack in a thermos? What’s a good side to eat with crackers?Family gatherings: WhatI usually double or triple the recipe. Serve with a big loaf of Italian bread and let everyone dig in.
My family loves to have this with warm garlic bread, they dunk the bread in the rich broth and it’s delicious. What makes it so delicious? My grandmother used to add egg noodles to hers and it was also super flavorful.
How do I make a Chicken Soup?
I want to take my own life.Marry Me Chicken Soup: What are some goodHow can I take my business to the next level?What is the quality ofWhat are the best chicken thighs to use? Is it possible to buy organic chicken?Sun-Dried TomatoesIf your sun-dried tomatoes are very dry, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes before using. This will help to soften them and release their flavor.What is the creaminessFor an extra creamy soup, try using heavy cream and Cream Cheese. Add a few ounces of softened cream cheese along with the heavy cream. The mixture should be creamy. I learned this trick from my Aunt, she always makes hers this way.Herb Power:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil, oregano or thyme would all be delicious additions. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce along with the red pepper flakes.
Cheese Please: Feel free to use different types of cheese in this soup. Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a little bit of goat cheese would all be delicious.
I’ve also learned that letting the soup sit for a little while before serving allows the flavors to meld together even more. It’s worth the wait, trust me!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch!
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to leave some room in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Methods: To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl.
Cream Consideration: If you’re reheating frozen soup, the cream may separate slightly. Just stir it well and it will come back together.
Fresh Additions: I always like to add a little fresh spinach or Parmesan cheese when reheating to brighten it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Marry Me Chicken Soup a try. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a bowl of comfort, love, and happiness. The incredible flavor, the surprising ease, and the family-friendly nature of this soup make it a winner in my book. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. They’re all equally delicious and comforting! And if you make this dish, let me know how it turns out. Share your own variations and tag me on social media. Happy cooking, friends!