Some recipes have the power to do more than just fill your stomach—they can tug at your heartstrings. That’s exactly what this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe does. Creamy, savory, and brimming with comforting flavors, this dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something cozy and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one, this soup will win anyone over—just like the name suggests.
Why Is It Called “Marry Me” Chicken Soup?
The name Marry Me Chicken originally comes from a dish so delicious, it was said to inspire marriage proposals. This soup version takes that same magic and transforms it into a hearty, one-pot meal that feels both romantic and accessible. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and creamy pasta, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again—for date nights, family dinners, or even solo indulgence.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup Recip
Before you begin, gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s a handy table to make things easy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, drained) | 1/2 cup |
| Oil from sun-dried tomato jar | 1 tablespoon |
| Yellow onion (chopped) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Tomato paste | 3 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 2 (32-ounce) packages |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil (chopped) | 4 teaspoons |
| Kosher salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Italian seasoning | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Medium shell pasta (uncooked) | 8 ounces |
| Baby spinach (roughly chopped) | 3 cups |
| Rotisserie chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese (cubed, room temperature) | 8 ounces |
| Parmesan cheese (finely shredded) | 1 1/2 ounces |
This soup comes together quickly with pantry staples like tomato paste and chicken broth, balanced by fresh elements like basil and spinach.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Cooking this soup is as easy as falling in love. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you’ll need. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. This flavorful oil adds an extra layer of richness to your soup.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir frequently and cook for about 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant. This step lays the foundation for the soup’s depth of flavor.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Stir in the tomato paste and the julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to darken slightly. This caramelization enhances the soup’s savory profile.
4. Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream, then add the fresh basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, which should take about 12 minutes.
5. Cook the Pasta
Once the broth is boiling, add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick. The pasta will absorb the flavors of the broth as it cooks.
6. Finish the Soup
Lower the heat to a simmer and stir in the baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and the chicken is warmed through—this should take about 5 minutes.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, if you like. Serve immediately and watch the smiles appear around the table.
Expert Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup
Even simple recipes like this one can benefit from a few extra pointers. Here’s how to make sure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
How to Prevent Overcooking Pasta
- Add the pasta only after the broth has started boiling.
- Stir regularly to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the soup from heat as soon as the pasta reaches an al dente texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap heavy whipping cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor.
- Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
Make It Your Own
Want a spicier version? Add more crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a richer broth? Stir in a tablespoon of butter during the final step.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its creamy texture and bold flavors.
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, for an elegant touch.
Garnishing Ideas
- Freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
- A drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
- Extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for finishing touches.
Nutritional Information
This soup is indulgent yet nourishing. Here’s a rough estimate of its nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 400–450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fats: 18g
To reduce the calorie count, use less cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
1. Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While medium shells work wonderfully, you can try bowtie, rigatoni, or even orzo for a different texture.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.
4. Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
5. What Other Greens Can I Use Instead of Spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula are excellent substitutes, each adding its own unique flavor.
6. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
You can! Sauté the onions and garlic separately, then transfer everything except the pasta and spinach to the slow cooker. Add the pasta and spinach during the final hour of cooking.
Conclusion: A Soup Worth Falling For
The Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With its creamy texture, savory depth, and heartwarming appeal, this soup will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that never disappoints.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a bowl of comfort that’s worth falling in love with. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones—it might just win their hearts, too!
