Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Soup—A Hug in a Bowl is comfort food at its finest. It’s warm, creamy, and filled with delicious flavors that bring joy to any meal. This recipe makes a hearty dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in.
What sets this soup apart is its ability to combine the richness of creamy chicken soup with delightful ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Each spoonful gives you a taste of comfort and love, truly earning its reputation as a dish that could lead to proposals!
Equipment Needed for Marry Me Chicken Soup
To prepare Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board for chopping
- Ladle for serving
Having these tools ready will help streamline the cooking process.
What You Need to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
- 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)
How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Soup Step by Step
Start by sautéing the aromatics. Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become softened and fragrant, creating a lovely base for your soup.
Next, build the base of the soup. Stir in the tomato paste and the sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly. This process helps deepen the flavor of the tomato paste, making it more aromatic and flavorful.
Following this step, simmer the broth. Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream. Add fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and allow it to simmer for 12 minutes. You can stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
Now it’s time to cook the pasta. Add the uncooked medium shell pasta to the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook for about 12 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally. The pasta should become tender and soak up the delicious flavors of the broth.
Make it creamy and delicious by lowering the heat to low once the pasta is cooked. Stir in the roughly chopped spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and finely shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir often for about 5 minutes until all the cheeses melt and the chicken is warmed through, creating a wonderful creamy mixture.
Finally, serve and enjoy. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve immediately, and consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Making Marry Me Chicken Soup is an easy and enjoyable process. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools so you can work efficiently. Prepare the vegetables by chopping the onions and mincing the garlic. It’s essential to have these ready, as they form the flavor base of the soup.
Once you’ve sautéed the onions and garlic, pay attention to the timing with the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cooking them slightly before adding the broth enhances their flavors.
When simmering the broth, remember to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. This not only ensures an even cook but also keeps the bottom of the pot from burning.
As you add pasta, it’s vital to check for tenderness periodically. You want it to be cooked through but not mushy. After mixing in the spinach, chicken, and cheeses, allow them some time to mingle on low heat to achieve that creamy texture.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
The best way to serve Marry Me Chicken Soup is steaming hot in generous bowls. This dish has a comforting and inviting presentation due to its creamy texture and colorful ingredients.
You should garnish each bowl with a little extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor and visual appeal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give an extra hint of spiciness if desired.
For a complete meal, serve the soup with fresh crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side. This combination will enhance the dining experience, allowing you to enjoy every delicious spoonful.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
While Marry Me Chicken Soup is delightful on its own, pairing it with some complementary sides can elevate your meal. A simple green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add freshness.
Crusty garlic bread or warm baguettes are perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. Offers elements of crunch and flavor that beautifully balance the soup’s creaminess.
If you want extra warmth, consider serving it alongside a side of roasted vegetables. Simply seasoned and roasted vegetables can add color and nutrition to your meal, making it even more enjoyable.
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Soup
If you have leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Soup, storing them properly is crucial for maintaining its delicious flavor. First, allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
Then, transfer it into airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers because the soup may expand when frozen.
When reheating, add a splash of water or extra broth to restore creaminess, since it may thicken as it sits. Heat the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring until warmed through.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
To make the best Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips. Always use freshly chopped ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can make a significant difference, especially basil in this recipe.
If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add a bit more broth or cream as it simmers. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste is also key; you might like a little extra salt or a pinch more crushed red pepper.
If you like a bit more texture, you can toss in some vegetables like carrots or celery at the beginning. They will cook down with the onions and garlic, adding even more layers of flavor.
Variation
This recipe is quite flexible, allowing for several variations. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans, and use a plant-based broth and cream.
For those who love a spicy twist, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during the simmering phase. You can also try swapping shell pasta for another type such as penne or bowties, changing the texture slightly but still retaining the comforting vibes.
Best Time to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, making it perfect for colder months. However, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. The best time to make this soup is when you’re looking for something hearty and filling, or when you want to impress family or friends with minimal effort.
Many people enjoy making this dish on weekends when they have more time. Preparing it for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners will surely create a memorable meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding a few common mistakes can significantly enhance your Marry Me Chicken Soup. One common error is not sautéing the onions and garlic long enough. Properly cooking them develops a rich flavor base.
Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture; always check for doneness as it cooks. Also, keep an eye on the heat when mixing in the cream cheese and spinach, as too much heat can cause the cream to curdle.
Lastly, don’t rush the simmering process; giving the flavors time to meld results in a more delicious soup.
Nutritional Notes
Marry Me Chicken Soup offers a well-balanced meal, rich in protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the cream. The spinach and tomatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a nutritious dish.
If you’re looking to reduce calorie intake, consider using low-fat cream, or lessen the amount of cream cheese in the recipe. Switching some ingredients for healthier alternatives can maintain the essence of the soup.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this soup, making it a great way to use up any extras from previous meals.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Marry Me Chicken Soup can be made ahead of time. Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge for a few days, and reheat when you are ready to enjoy it.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
You can easily substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta. Ensure the chicken broth you use is also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Soup—A Hug in a Bowl is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with the family or serve it at gatherings for a guaranteed hit. With its creamy goodness and hearty components, every spoonful will surely warm your heart and fill your belly.
