I still remember the first time I made Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe. The aroma it brought into the kitchen was enchanting and comforting, like a warm hug. Each spoonful was a symphony of creamy textures, savory chicken, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
It was so good I vowed to make it again, and it became a staple in my home. If you enjoy hearty soup recipes like New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque, you’ll absolutely adore this irresistible soup with a twist.
Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
Crafting the perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup begins with the right ingredients. Here’s your detailed grocery list with suggestions to make it even better:
- 2 tablespoons oil from a jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
Tip: This adds a rich, tangy flavor to the base. - 6 cloves garlic, minced
Why: Fresh garlic provides a vibrant kick that powdered garlic can’t replicate. - 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
Pro Tip: Use tomatoes packed in oil for softer, more flavorful bites. - 3 tablespoons tomato paste
Why: Intensifies the tomato flavor while thickening the soup. - 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Tip: Opt for low-sodium; you can control the salt better this way. - 8 ounces small pasta shells (about 2 cups)
Why: These hold the soup’s creamy sauce beautifully. - 1 (5-ounce) package baby spinach, coarsely chopped
Pro Tip: Always use fresh spinach, as frozen spinach can be watery. - 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 8 ounces)
Why: Rotisserie chicken works wonders for ease and flavor. - 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed and softened
Pro Tip: This melts smoothly when at room temperature. - 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Why: Freshly grated Parmesan offers a more robust flavor. - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, optional for garnish.
- Kosher salt to taste
Note: This recipe serves 6 generously but can be halved or doubled as needed.
Fun Variations to Try
Cooking is all about creativity, and this soup is ripe for customization. Here’s how you can make it your own:
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese with a cashew-based cream and skip the Parmesan, replacing it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Low-Carb Twist: Skip the pasta and add roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
- Herb Explosion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for added depth.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
Cooking Time Breakdown
Here’s how long you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Essential Equipment for Success
Before you start, make sure you have these tools at hand:
- Large Dutch Oven – Perfect for evenly heating and combining all ingredients.
- Sharp Knife – For chopping garlic, tomatoes, and basil.
- Cutting Board – A convenient base for slicing and dicing.
- Wooden Spoon – Ideal for stirring the soup and keeping it from sticking.
- Ladle – For serving the soup with ease.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Step-by-Step
Making this soup is as delightful as eating it. Follow these steps for a foolproof outcome:
Step 1: Build the Tomato Base
Start by heating the sun-dried tomato oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir constantly for two minutes to create a rich, aromatic paste.
Step 2: Enrich the Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir well. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for eight minutes to ensure the flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the pasta shells. Stir occasionally and cook until they are just al dente, which should take about six minutes.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped spinach, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and Parmesan. Keep stirring until the cheeses have melted, creating a creamy texture. Taste and adjust saltiness as needed. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Additional Tips for Perfect Soup Every Time
These are my personal discoveries that make this recipe shine:
- Soft Cheese Is Key: Always soften cream cheese before adding; it melts more evenly this way.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust small elements like salt or basil to perfect your soup.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated often lacks flavor and doesn’t melt as well.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: I once added cooked mushrooms for an earthy layer of flavor.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
Presentation makes everything more exciting! Serve this soup in large, shallow bowls for a rustic look. Pair it with crusty sourdough bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping. For garnish, a sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves add vibrancy to the dish. It’s a warm, hearty option for cozy dinners like creamy beef taco soup.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick peek at the nutrition for one serving:
- Calories: 415
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 27g
How to Store the Soup
Keen on saving some for later? Here’s how:
- Refrigerating: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in individual portions for reheating ease.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth to adjust consistency if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are endless reasons to love this soup, but here’s what stands out:
- Quick and Easy: A gourmet meal in under an hour.
- Versatile: Easily adapted to suit dietary needs or personal tastes.
- Comforting: The creamy texture and rich flavors are pure comfort food.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
For more dinner inspirations, check out these recipes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Orecchiette or campanelle work beautifully, but adjust cooking time based on the package instructions.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta or swap with spiralized veggies like zucchini or carrots.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
I prefer using two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts, but a hand mixer works wonders too.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! Prepare the soup without the pasta. Cook and add the pasta just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.