Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs. This one-pot meal is perfect for cozy dinners and offers a hearty dose of protein at 41 grams per serving. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this gluten-free soup will surely impress.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For Frying
• How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Pasta
• Step 5: Finish with Cream and Spinach
• Step 6: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Serve with a Fresh Salad
• Top with Extra Cheese
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?
• Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Soup?
• Is Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?
• How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze after cooking.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread or salad.
• Comforting and Cozy: Ideal for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Marry Me Chicken Soup, having the right tools on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, carrots, and garlic quick and easy.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks or 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
• 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small-shaped pasta)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 handfuls baby spinach

For Frying

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil.
– Add the carrots, onion, and garlic.
– Sauté for about 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Add the chicken pieces to the pot.
• Sauté for another 3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Stir in the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Bring this mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low.
• Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta

• Add the ditalini pasta to the pot.
• Stir well to combine. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Spinach

• Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach.
• Cover the pot again. Turn off the heat but let it sit for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Garnish with parsley or basil before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just looking for a comforting meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful kick that enhances the overall taste of the meal.

Serve with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and the creaminess of dressing pair well with the soup.
• Greek Salad: The freshness of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a refreshing contrast.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan: Grate additional Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can add a delightful stringiness that kids love.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Adds a fragrant touch that brightens the flavors.
• Parsley: A sprinkle on top can enhance the presentation and taste.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To make your Marry Me Chicken Soup even better, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try substituting chicken with turkey or even rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect complement.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
3. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese are great for dipping into your soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a nutty flavor and healthy grains alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers provide a satisfying addition that pairs well with chicken soup.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread brings a delightful contrast to the savory soup flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Marry Me Chicken Soup even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Always sauté in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Neglecting to sauté vegetables and chicken can result in bland flavors. Take the time to brown them before adding liquids for a richer taste.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Choosing regular chicken broth can make the soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium options to control the seasoning better.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir during cooking can cause pasta to stick together or burn at the bottom. Make sure to stir periodically while simmering.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Skipping the resting time after cooking can prevent flavors from melding. Letting the soup sit enhances its overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool down before sealing it for storage.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Freeze in an airtight container with some space for expansion.
• The soup can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy chicken soup that features sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and plenty of herbs. It’s a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, switch out pasta shapes, or use different herbs based on your taste preferences.

Is Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free pasta. Check labels if you’re sensitive or allergic.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Soup?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick option for dinner.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup combines comfort with robust flavors, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners. This versatile recipe allows for various customizations, so feel free to experiment with ingredients that you love. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and satisfaction!