This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a cozy dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty veggies that warm you right up. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!
Honestly, I think the name says it all. After one bite, you’ll want to marry someone who makes this soup for you! It’s that good, trust me. ❤️
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup on a chilly day. Just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer—perfect for sharing with loved ones or even for solo Netflix nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing. If you want a different flavor, try using avocado oil or even butter. Both add a nice richness to the soup.
Chicken Broth: Using homemade broth is fantastic for depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, low-sodium store-bought broth works just fine. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, saving time while still delivering great flavor. You can also use leftover baked chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. They won’t be as rich, but they’ll still work well!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you don’t have these, diced fresh tomatoes can add a nice brightness. Just toss them in earlier during cooking to soften them a bit.
How Do You Make Sure Your Soup Has a Rich Flavor?
Building flavor is the key to a great soup. Here are some steps to follow:
- Starting with sautéing garlic and onion in olive oil creates a solid base. Make sure they’re golden and fragrant before adding anything else.
- Don’t rush it! Adding the crushed red pepper flakes at this stage helps release their flavor. Just a quick 30 seconds in the oil does wonders.
- Let the broth come to a gentle boil before adding the chicken. This step helps develop a nice flavor as everything melds together.
- By simmering the soup once you add the heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes, you allow all the ingredients to combine perfectly. Just give it a few minutes before adding the pasta and spinach.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup that makes everyone want to settle down! Enjoy each comforting spoonful!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups cooked pasta shells or small pasta of choice
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup should take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious dish in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick yet hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step brings great flavor to the soup!
2. Add Spice:
Next, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and let them cook for another 30 seconds. This helps to infuse the oil with warmth and spice so your soup has a lovely kick!
3. Build the Base:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will be the base of your soup, so make sure it’s boiling nicely!
4. Introduce the Chicken:
Once the broth is boiling, add in the shredded cooked chicken. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Creamy Goodness:
Stir in the heavy cream and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes. This step makes the soup rich and creamy, with the sun-dried tomatoes adding a burst of flavor!
6. Add the Greens and Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta shells and the fresh baby spinach to the pot. Stir well until the spinach has wilted and the pasta is warmed through.
7. Season Perfectly:
Now it’s time to season! Generously add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust to your liking, making sure it’s just right!
8. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Just before you serve, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top. This adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavor of the soup.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s a delightful pairing!
Enjoy this rich, warming Marry Me Chicken Soup that combines creamy broth, tender chicken, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes in one irresistible bowl!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests pasta shells, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, rotini, or even egg noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
If you want to make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
No worries! You can use diced fresh tomatoes instead. Just add them early on in the cooking process to allow them to soften. Alternatively, consider using roasted red peppers for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
