Ah, the weather is turning chilly, and you know what that means—it’s time for a cozy, love-in-a-bowl kind of soup! Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorites: **Marry Me Chicken Soup**. This creamy, comforting concoction has the power to make anyone feel warm and fuzzy inside. Plus, it’s got such a playful name that I can’t help but smile every time I make it.
I remember the first time I tried this recipe at a friend’s potluck. The delightful combination of chicken, creamy broth, and tender pasta danced around my tastebuds, and I was instantly hooked. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to grab a spoon and savor every drop. I mean, who wouldn’t want to marry a dish that promises such flavorful comfort? Ready to make some culinary magic? Let’s dive in!
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Now, let’s chat about the wonderful ingredients that come together to create this delicious soup:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I love using chicken breasts because they cook up tender and juicy. Feel free to use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Olive Oil: A splash of healthy fat to sauté our veggies and get everything started. Extra virgin is my go-to for that beautiful, rich flavor.
Onion: Adds a lovely aromatic base to our soup. A medium onion, diced, will do wonders to elevate the flavor.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! Just a few cloves, minced, make all the difference.
Diced Tomatoes: A burst of acidity and sweetness to balance the richness of the cream. I recommend using a can of no-salt-added diced tomatoes.
Chicken Broth: A warm, flavorful base for our soup. Homemade is always fantastic if you have it, but store-bought works in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: The secret ingredient that lends a rich, velvety texture. If cream isn’t your thing, you can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
Uncooked Pasta: I like using small pasta shapes like shells or penne. They soak up the soup beautifully and make it feel hearty.
Fresh Spinach: Not only does it add a pop of color, but it’s also a great way to sneak in those greens. I usually toss in a couple of handfuls.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A delightful burst of umami flavor that creates depth in each bite.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that adds that Italian flair—think basil, oregano, and thyme.
Red Pepper Flakes: A little kick of heat, but you can adjust it according to your spice tolerance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Because let’s be honest, everything is better with cheese!
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Optional garnish that adds freshness and color.
Is Marry Me Chicken Soup Good for You?
When it comes to comfort food, this soup doesn’t just satisfy cravings; it also packs in some great benefits!
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein that keeps you full and nourished.
Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, this leafy green boosts your immune system and is great for your skin.
Diced Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins and lycopene, these little gems offer heart health benefits.
Pasta: While it adds carbs to give you that energy boost, you can opt for whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
Of course, this soup does have its creamy indulgent side too! The heavy cream adds richness, so if you’re watching your fat intake, I recommend considering lighter alternatives as mentioned earlier. With any soup, you’ll want to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re thinking about second helpings (and trust me, you will!).
Gather Your Ingredients
Let’s get cooking! This recipe serves about 6 generous bowls, perfect for a family gathering or meal prep for the week.
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup uncooked pasta (e.g., shells or penne)
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy haven? Here’s how to whip up this delicious soup:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and keep cooking for another 1-2 minutes until that amazing aroma fills the air.
3. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they’re beautifully browned on both sides—about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and mix in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a joyful boil.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer. This is the perfect time to toss in your uncooked pasta. Cook until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, adding the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is warm and heavenly.
7. Give it a taste, and if you fancy it, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
8. Remove the chicken breasts, and shred them with two forks. Return that succulent chicken back into the soup.
9. Serve hot, with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil or parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Soup-er Simple Adjustments
A quick note: This soup is rich and creamy, making it a perfect comfort meal. If you’re looking for a lighter version, feel free to swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of pasta if you’re keeping an eye on carbs. Leftovers? They store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and are just as delicious reheated!
So there you have it—Marry Me Chicken Soup! A comforting dish that’s not just a meal but a recipe for happiness. I hope you give it a try and let it warm your soul. And, if you do whip this up, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
