Name: Hearty Marry Me Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can substitute with avocado oil); 2 tablespoons Butter (can substitute with vegan butter); 1 medium Onion, chopped (Shallots can be used for milder taste); 4 cloves Garlic, minced (can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Double concentrated varieties enhance flavor); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (can use fresh tomatoes if adjusted); 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (individual herbs like oregano or basil can be used); 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano (optional if using Italian seasoning); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional for spice); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (substitute with extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version); 4 cups Chicken Broth (can substitute with vegetable broth); 2 cups Cooked/Roast Chicken (can substitute with turkey or skip for vegetarian); 1.5 cups Rotini or Fusilli Pasta, uncooked (can substitute with gluten-free pasta); 1 cup Heavy/Whipping Cream (can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy cream); 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free); 2-3 cups Fresh Baby Spinach, packed (can swap with kale or Swiss chard); 1/2 cup Fresh Basil, torn/sliced (can substitute with parsley); Salt & Pepper (to taste)

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Sipping on a bowl of comfort can truly feel like a warm hug, and that’s exactly what you’re in for with my Marry Me Chicken Soup! This creamy concoction, infused with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and deep Italian herbs, is a direct flight to cozy evenings and heartwarming meals. Not only is it incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for those bustling weeknights—but it also serves as an impressive crowd-pleaser that’s bound to win hearts at the dinner table. The rich broth tantalizes your taste buds while offering the perfect combination of creamy texture and wholesome ingredients. Curious how such an easy dish can deliver so much love in a bowl? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting, familiar flavors: This Marry Me Chicken Soup wraps you in a warm embrace with its creamy broth and savory chicken flavor.
Quick preparation: Perfect for busy evenings, it can be on the table in half an hour.
Impressive crowd-pleaser: Your family and friends will be begging for seconds after they taste this delightful dish!
Versatile ingredients: Swap pasta, veggies, or proteins to create your own perfect version—try adding kale instead of spinach for a twist!
Nourishing goodness: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is comfort food you can feel good about serving. Whether served alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad, you’ll find this soup meets all your comforting cravings!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Get ready to cook up a cozy masterpiece!

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and enhances flavors; swap it for avocado oil if you’re feeling adventurous.
Butter – Provides richness and depth; replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Builds the base flavor of the soup; shallots work wonderfully for a milder taste.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Contributes intense flavor; in a pinch, use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness and thickness to the broth; double concentrated varieties really amp up the flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup) – Offers tanginess and chewiness; fresh tomatoes can be used if you adjust the quantity.
Italian Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon) – Introduces a blend of Italian herbs; if you want to customize, go for individual herbs like oregano and basil.
Dried Oregano (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances the herby notes; can be omitted if you’re using Italian seasoning.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional) – Offers spice and warmth; skip this for a milder flavor.
Dry White Wine (1/2 cup) – Adds acidity and depth; substitute with extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The flavorful base of the soup; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Cooked/Roast Chicken (2 cups) – A convenient source of protein; use turkey or skip it for a vegetarian dish.
Rotini or Fusilli Pasta (1.5 cups, uncooked) – Provides substance to the soup; swap with gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Heavy/Whipping Cream (1 cup) – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; half-and-half or non-dairy cream work well for a lighter touch.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, plus more for serving) – Adds savory richness; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute.
Fresh Baby Spinach (2-3 cups, packed) – Adds color and nutrients; kale or Swiss chard can offer a nice twist.
Fresh Basil (1/2 cup, torn/sliced) – Brightens and flavors the soup; parsley can be used if you want something different.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; don’t forget to adjust according to the broth’s saltiness.

With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re just moments away from creating the delightful Marry Me Chicken Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, toss in 1 medium chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. This forms the flavorful base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and dried oregano, along with ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the kitchen to fill with delicious aromas that tease your palate.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and let it bubble for 1-2 minutes, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your Marry Me Chicken Soup, allowing the wine to evaporate a bit and infuse the broth.

Step 4: Build the Broth
Add 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot and increase the heat to high. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then add 1.5 cups of uncooked rotini or fusilli pasta. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and partially cover the pot, allowing the pasta to cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Chicken
After 10 minutes, carefully stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 2 cups of cooked or roast chicken. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the pasta is tender and the chicken is warmed through. This will transform your broth into a creamy, comforting base for the Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the soup from heat and stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, along with 2-3 cups of packed fresh baby spinach and ½ cup of torn or sliced basil. Mix well until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a rich texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors of this delightful bowl.

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Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and gather all your ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating everything until you’re ready to cook. The soup can also be made entirely ahead of time; simply cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and combine it with the soup just before serving to prevent it from soaking up too much broth. When it’s time to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stove, add the remaining ingredients like cream and spinach, and delight in a dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup

Mind the Pasta: To prevent the pasta from soaking up too much broth, consider cooking it separately if making ahead.
Freshness Counts: Add the spinach and cream just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh; this maintains the soup’s exquisite taste.
Frequent Stirring: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to avoid sticking, ensuring a smooth texture in your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Flavor Adjustment: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper; they are essential for enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Mix and Match: Feel free to substitute ingredients to match your preferences; be creative with vegetables and herbs for a personal touch!

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup

Savoring a bowl of this creamy delight opens up a world of delicious possibilities for your meal spread.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dunking and soaking up the creamy soup, add a rustic sourdough or warm baguette for that comforting touch.
Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with fresh greens balances the richness of the soup brilliantly, offering a refreshing contrast in flavors.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these deliver a robust garlic flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Colors and nutritious goodness come together in a medley of seasonal roasted veggies, adding a delightful sweetness alongside the savory soup.
Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto made with parmesan and herbs enhances the overall Italian flair and offers a heartier approach to your meal.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay pairs superbly, as its acidity cuts through the richness of the soup, making each sip refreshing.

Embrace the comfort of Marry Me Chicken Soup with these delightful pairings, crafting a meal that invites smiles and warm conversation every time.

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Freezer: Pack the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pasta Consideration: If you prefer to keep the pasta’s texture, store it separately from the soup. Reheat both components to serve.

Reheating Tip: Gently warm the soup on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy consistency of your Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious changes to make the Marry Me Chicken Soup uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free rotini or fusilli for a comforting dish that’s easy on the tummy. This small swap opens the door for everyone to enjoy this classic in their way!
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced carrots or peas to jazz up the nutrition and add sweetness. Each bite will be a delightful surprise, bringing in both color and health benefits!
Kale Instead of Spinach: Swap fresh baby spinach for kale for a heartier texture and earthy flavor. Kale wilts beautifully, creating a rich dimension that you’ll fall in love with.
Cream Alternative: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a unique sweetness and a dairy-free version. The creamy texture will still be luscious, while adding a slightly tropical twist!
Add Some Heat: Spice it up with diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you’re craving more heat. Just remember, the love for flavor is limitless—go spicy or keep it mellow!
Mixed Herbs Mania: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic experience. They lend complexity and zing, elevating the comforting nature of this soup even further!
Fresh Tomato Addition: Diced fresh tomatoes can replace or complement sun-dried tomatoes, brightening the flavor. The garden-fresh taste will give every bowl a lovely summer vibe.
White Wine Substitute: For a non-alcoholic option, replace the dry white wine with a splash of apple cider vinegar. This tip adds that needed acidity while being family-friendly!

If you find yourself falling for this Marry Me Chicken Soup, why not explore other delightful dishes like my Cheesy Chicken Spinach or Balsamic Glazed Chicken? You never know where the next love story in your kitchen might lead!

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Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add a lovely richness and flavor to the soup with a succulent chew. If using dried ones, remember to rehydrate them by soaking in hot water or boiling for a few minutes before adding them to the pot. Feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you prefer a lighter version, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity—around 2 cups should do the trick!

How long can I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup?
You can happily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the pasta from getting mushy, it’s best to store it separately if you’re planning to have leftovers. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to rejuvenate the creaminess.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this comforting soup for up to 3 months. To do this, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little bit of space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, stirring gently to maintain that creamy texture.

What should I do if the soup gets too thick?
If you find that the soup has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a little bit of chicken broth or water, one ladle at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the pasta continues to absorb liquid, so adjusting is completely normal.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This Marry Me Chicken Soup is quite versatile. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the chicken or replace it with beans. Use gluten-free pasta if needed, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative. Each substitution can create a delicious new twist on this heartwarming recipe!