If you have ever dreamed of a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you are going to adore the Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe. This dish is a heavenly blend of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and tender chicken, all simmered together in a savory broth that dances with flavor. Every spoonful invites you to slow down, savor, and remember why comfort food will always have a special place at the table. It’s a recipe that feels like love served in a bowl, promising to lift your spirits and satisfy your soul in the coziest way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe lies not just in its incredible taste but also in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the rich sun-dried tomatoes that add depth or the creamy cheeses that create a luscious texture. Together, they create a harmonious balance that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
- 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs): Adds tangy, robust flavor and a burst of color that brightens the soup.
- 2 tbsp Oil from Sun-Dried Tomato Jar: Retains the concentrated tomato and herb essence, intensifying the overall taste.
- 1 large Chopped Yellow Onion: Brings a gentle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the broth with its unmistakable aromatic warmth.
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste: Enhances richness and deepens the tomato flavor with its concentrated goodness.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth: The comforting base that carries all the flavors to perfection.
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides a silky smooth texture that makes this soup feel utterly luxurious.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Basil: Adds a refreshing herbal note and a touch of green vibrancy; dried basil works in a pinch!
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors in the soup.
- 1 tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning: A classic blend that gives this dish an Italian flair.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: A subtle layer of extra garlic flavor that enhances without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper: A pinch of heat to awaken your palate, adjustable to your liking.
- 1 cup Medium Shell Pasta: The perfect little pasta shape to catch the creamy broth and tender chicken.
- 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach: Introduces a fresh pop of green and a healthy touch to balance the richness.
- 2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Succulent and ready-made, saving you time and adding savory depth.
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (cubed): Melts into the broth for an extra creamy texture that feels like a secret indulgence.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Finely shredded): Adds salty, nutty sharpness and velvety richness; keep extra for garnish!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor
Start by heating the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. This oil is treasure packed with concentrated tomato and herb essence that forms the flavor backbone. Add the chopped yellow onions and freshly minced garlic, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are softened and the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma that hints at the magic to come.
Step 2: Deepen the Tomato Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow them to cook gently for around 2 minutes. This step lets the tomato paste darken ever so slightly, unlocking deeper, richer tomato flavors that form an irresistible foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream, then sprinkle in the fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let it mingle and develop for about 12 minutes — this is where those ingredients get cozy, exchanging their flavors to form a delicious, harmonious broth.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta to Tender Perfection
Add the medium shell pasta, reducing the heat to medium-low. Let the pasta cook until it’s tender while retaining a little bite, usually about 12 minutes. This pasta shape is brilliant because it holds onto every luscious drop of the creamy broth, making every spoonful utterly satisfying.
Step 5: Stir in Greens, Chicken, and Cheeses
Lower the heat to low and fold in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until everything melts together into one creamy, warm, comforting bowl. This final step is the ultimate hug in a pot — full-bodied and inviting.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to brighten and enhance. This soup is perfect on its own or paired with simple sides to round out the meal with elegance and ease.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Marry Me Chicken Soup by adding a few thoughtfully chosen garnishes. A generous sprinkle of finely shredded Parmesan cheese adds extra salty, nutty complexity. Fresh basil leaves on top contribute a fragrant, herbal freshness that delights the senses, and a dash of red pepper flakes offers a subtle pop of heat. These finishing touches make every bowl feel like a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Pairing this soup with the right side dishes takes your meal to new heights. A crusty baguette or warm garlic bread are classic companions, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. Alternatively, a light and crisp green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness, balancing the meal beautifully and adding layers of texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls that enhance its cozy, homemade vibe. You might even hollow out small sourdough bread bowls for an edible serving idea that impresses guests. Adding a swirl of cream on top or a drizzle of basil oil can turn a simple bowl of soup into a gourmet experience that looks as delicious as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the cream and cheese from separating. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to reunite the flavors and textures perfectly.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to stash a batch for busy days. Freeze in a freezer-safe container without the fresh spinach (add that fresh when you reheat). For best results, consume within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or curdling. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. This slow reheating method helps maintain that signature creamy texture that makes the Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe so heavenly.
FAQs
Can I use regular dried tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?
You can, but sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil impart extra richness and flavor because of the infused oil. If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water first and add a bit of olive oil to capture some of that depth.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with a rich vegetable broth and replace shredded chicken with hearty veggies like mushrooms or chickpeas. The creamy base and herbs still shine through beautifully.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, swap heavy cream and cream cheese for coconut milk or cashew cream alternatives. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor without dairy. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
What pasta shapes work best in this soup?
Medium shell pasta works great because it holds the broth well, but you can also use small penne, ditalini, or mini fusilli. Just avoid pasta shapes that don’t hold liquid well or take too long to cook.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can prep the broth and ingredients a day ahead, refrigerate separately, and combine everything to simmer just before serving. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and ensures the freshest flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe feels like sharing a little piece of culinary joy. It’s cozy, indulgent, full of nourishing ingredients, and sure to become a delightful staple in your kitchen repertoire. Next time you want a meal that wraps you in warmth and love, give this soup a try—you might just find a new favorite to cherish forever.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Soup: Love-Inspired Creamy Comfort Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting bowl filled with tender shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach simmered in a flavorful tomato and herb broth. Enhanced with cream cheese and Parmesan, this hearty soup combines bold flavors and creamy textures for a perfect soul-soothing meal ideal for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs)
- 2 tbsp Oil from Sun-Dried Tomato Jar
- 1 large Chopped Yellow Onion
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 tbsp Fresh Basil
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper
- 1 cup Medium Shell Pasta
- 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
- 2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, finely shredded + extra for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the base: Heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful aromatics base.
- Add tomato components: Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to darken slightly to deepen the overall flavor of the soup.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream. Add fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it cook for 12 minutes to meld all flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Stir in the medium shell pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for approximately 12 minutes until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite, ensuring perfect texture.
- Finish with greens and cheese: Lower the heat to low and mix in the fresh baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt completely and the soup is hot throughout.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat and visual appeal. Serve alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.
- The cream cheese should be at room temperature for easier melting into the soup.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper to your preferred heat level for spiciness.
- You can substitute fresh basil with dried basil if necessary, but fresh herbs provide better aroma.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the chicken broth slightly or add more cream cheese.
