If you are searching for a soul-warming dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe. It combines tender chicken, creamy broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs to create an irresistible comfort food experience that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing someone special. Every spoonful delivers layers of flavor and richness that feel indulgent yet comforting, making it an absolute favorite to keep on your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe lies in how simple, fresh ingredients come together beautifully. Each component contributes to the perfect balance of creamy texture, tangy brightness, and savory depth that makes this soup utterly unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle fruity richness to the base.
- 1 large onion (diced): Provides a sweet and savory foundation when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds fragrant warmth that deepens the flavor profile.
- 6-8 cups chicken stock: The heart of the soup that delivers savory broth richness.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a concentrated tang and vibrant color.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): These lend a chewy texture and intense umami kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herbal medley that ties the flavors together.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a hint of spicy warmth without overpowering.
- 8 ounces uncooked shell pasta: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth while adding body.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Enriches the soup for a luscious, velvety consistency.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded): The protein that makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Adds freshness, color, and a subtle earthy note.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts nutty flavor and creamy saltiness as a finishing touch.
- ¼ cup freshly chopped basil leaves: Gives a bright, aromatic burst just before serving.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them slowly until they soften and become fragrant, around 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavorful base that elevates the entire soup.
Step 2: Build the Broth and Cook the Pasta
Next, stir in the chicken stock, tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked shell pasta. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook perfectly while infusing the broth with rich tomato and herb flavors.
Step 3: Add Cream, Chicken, and Spinach
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream to give the soup its signature silky texture. Then, add the shredded cooked chicken and fresh spinach leaves. Continue cooking just until the spinach wilts and the chicken warms through, which only takes a few minutes. This step transforms the soup into a creamy, hearty delight.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese, Basil, and Seasoning
Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the grated Parmesan and freshly chopped basil. These final touches bring bright, savory notes that make the soup truly sing. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your soup with extra Parmesan shavings, a drizzle of good quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh basil leaves on top add a lovely aroma that complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A light Parmesan or herb focaccia can also be a fantastic accompaniment that invites you to dip and savor every last bit of the luscious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a piece of torn fresh basil on top for a simple yet elegant look. For a cozy twist, ladle it into mason jars for picnics or on-the-go lunches. You could also add a swirl of pesto or a spoonful of ricotta to elevate the presentation and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the pasta from becoming too soft. Before eating, give it a gentle stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that the pasta may become a bit softer after freezing, so if possible, undercook the pasta slightly when making it to freeze. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. You may want to add a splash of chicken stock or cream to refresh the texture and richness before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of shells?
Absolutely! While shell pasta is great for catching the creamy broth, small shapes like rotini, ditalini, or penne also work well in the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe.
Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth and slight tang that enrich the soup, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with chopped roasted red peppers or omit them altogether for a milder flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and use a plant-based cream or cashew cream. Omit the chicken or replace it with cooked chickpeas or tofu for added protein.
How spicy is this soup?
The red pepper flakes provide only a gentle warmth that complements the flavors without making the soup spicy. You can adjust the amount to your preference or skip it entirely if you want no heat.
What’s the best way to shred the cooked chicken?
Use two forks to pull the cooked chicken apart into shreds, or toss it in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed for a quick shredding method. Freshly shredded chicken blends well and absorbs the delicious broth.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is a heartwarming dish that perfectly combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a joy to prepare and even more delightful to share. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or aiming to impress your loved ones with something special, this soup is guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to recipe for cozy nights in!
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Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a savory tomato broth with pasta and herbs. Ready in just 35 minutes, this soup is perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6–8 cups chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces uncooked shell pasta
Finishers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
- Add soup ingredients and simmer: Pour in the chicken stock and stir in tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add the uncooked shell pasta and bring everything to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is nearly tender.
- Incorporate cream, chicken, and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cooked chicken, and fresh spinach leaves. Continue cooking until the spinach has wilted and the pasta is perfectly al dente, ensuring the soup is creamy and hearty.
- Finish and season: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil leaves. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your liking, then serve warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked chicken for convenience, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated tomato flavor; rehydrate if very dry or use oil-packed for extra richness.
- Shell pasta can be replaced with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best flavor and safety.
