Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Recipe So Good, It’s Proposal-Worthy!
Forget the diamond ring – the real way to someone’s heart (and possibly their hand in marriage!) is through their stomach. Enter: Marry Me Chicken Soup. This creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible soup takes the internet-famous “Marry Me Chicken” dish and transforms it into a comforting and equally swoon-worthy soup. We’re talking tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a luscious creamy broth that will have you saying “I do” to another bowl.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It’s a surefire hit for impressing your loved ones, or, let’s be honest, just treating yourself to something truly delicious. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to fall in love with Marry Me Chicken Soup!
## What Makes Marry Me Chicken Soup So Special?
The magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup lies in its combination of flavors and textures. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it so irresistible:
* **Creamy Base:** Heavy cream or a combination of heavy cream and broth creates a rich and velvety soup base that’s incredibly comforting.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** These little gems add a burst of intense, sweet, and tangy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
* **Italian Seasoning & Garlic:** These classic Italian flavors provide a warm and aromatic foundation for the soup.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Adds a salty, umami-rich depth of flavor and helps to thicken the soup.
* **Tender Chicken:** Chicken breast or thighs, cooked to perfection, provide a hearty and satisfying protein element.
* **Optional Veggies:** Spinach, kale, or other leafy greens can be added for extra nutrients and texture.
## Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or use 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)
* Cooked pasta or rice (optional, for serving)
**Equipment**
* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prep the Chicken**
* If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook quickly and evenly. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
* Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
**Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices**
* Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the flavors.
**Step 4: Brown the Chicken**
* Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, as it will continue to cook in the soup.
**Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer**
* Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
**Step 6: Stir in Cream, Cheese, and Spinach (if using)**
* Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. If using spinach, stir it in until it wilts.
**Step 7: Season and Serve**
* Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. You can also serve the soup over cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
## Tips and Variations for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup
* **Chicken Thighs:** For a richer flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They tend to be more moist and flavorful.
* **Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, carrots, or celery. Add them along with the onions in Step 2.
* **Spicy:** If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few more red pepper flakes.
* **Cream Cheese:** For an extra creamy and tangy soup, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese along with the Parmesan cheese.
* **Dairy-Free:** To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese. You can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
* **Thickening:** If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Slow Cooker:** This soup can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Add all the ingredients (except the cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil before serving.
* **Leftovers:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Make it a Pasta Dish:** Serve the soup over your favorite pasta, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle, for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also add the cooked pasta directly to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Add Beans:** Cannellini beans or great northern beans would be a lovely addition, adding both texture and protein. Add them along with the broth.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your liking.
* **White Wine:** Deglaze the pot with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the onions and garlic. This will add another layer of flavor to the soup.
## Serving Suggestions
Marry Me Chicken Soup is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
* **Garlic Bread:** Elevate the experience with homemade garlic bread.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
* **Pasta or Rice:** As mentioned earlier, serving the soup over pasta or rice makes it a heartier meal.
## Why This Soup Will Make You Say “I Do”
Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and utterly irresistible dish that’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and burst of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes will have you coming back for more. So, go ahead, make a batch of this magical soup and prepare to be swept off your feet (or maybe even get a proposal!). Enjoy!
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
* Calories: 450-550 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
## Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Soup
This is the perfect soup for a cold winter night. It is hearty and filling and will definitely warm you up. Please let us know in the comments how it goes!