There is something incredibly comforting and irresistibly delicious about this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. It combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, herby broth loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that feel both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or an impressive yet simple dish to wow your loved ones, this soup brings warmth and happiness in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, balancing creaminess with savory notes and a touch of spice and freshness to brighten the whole bowl.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and aromatics to develop a rich base flavor.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein that gives this soup its satisfying substance.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with savory warmth.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that brings everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious texture that makes this soup feel indulgent.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: For bursts of tangy sweetness and a vibrant color pop.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Brings a subtle herbal fragrance that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, classic Italian touch.
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste): Essential to elevate all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: For a mild spice and complexity.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a gentle bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for an extra layer of savory, creamy goodness.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked through and golden on the outside. The chicken should be juicy and tender, forming the heart of this soup. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool so it can be shredded later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become soft, fragrant, and slightly golden at the edges. This step is where the soup begins to gain that irresistible flavor base that invites you in.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and lift any browned bits stuck to the pot, which add deep flavor. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook gently for 5 minutes to marry those flavors.
Step 4: Add Chicken, Cream, and Greens
Shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt gently in the warm soup, softening without losing its vibrant color and texture.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Season
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup, enriching it with savory umami goodness. Taste the soup at this point and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. The soup should taste creamy, herbaceous, and balanced with just a hint of spice.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese or torn fresh basil leaves on top adds a beautiful finishing touch that enhances both taste and presentation. The freshness of the basil perfectly complements the creamy broth while the extra cheese reinforces the indulgent feel.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. A simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette also adds a crisp, refreshing contrast that keeps the meal light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls or alongside a mini grilled cheese sandwich. You can also garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts for added texture and a gourmet flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Because of the cream, freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe requires a little care. Freeze it without the cream if possible, then add the cream fresh when reheating. Otherwise, the texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious and comforting.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from curdling. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the soup back to the perfect consistency if it has thickened during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add a richer flavor and stay tender during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly until they are fully cooked through.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream to keep it creamy without dairy, which will also add a lovely subtle nuttiness.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that isn’t overpowering. You can simply reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I prepare the soup in a slow cooker?
You can! Brown the chicken and sauté the onions separately, then combine all ingredients (except the cream and Parmesan) in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low. Add the cream, spinach, and cheese near the end.
What can I add to make this soup even heartier?
Try adding cooked pasta, rice, or even diced potatoes to bulk up the soup. These additions add comfort and make it more filling without losing its signature creamy, herbal charm.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe, it will become one of your go-to comfort foods that’s both easy and irresistible. The layers of flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant touches make it a dish that’s perfect for sharing—and maybe even inspiring a few marriage proposals of your own. So grab your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and dive into this deliciously cozy soup today!
Print
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a savory broth with sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and fresh spinach. This comforting recipe combines Parmesan cheese and a hint of spice for an indulgent yet easy-to-make meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook the chicken: Add chicken breasts to the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Remove and cool chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the pot and let it cool slightly to handle safely for shredding.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent and softened.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, then add the sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Shred the chicken: Shred the cooled chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot.
- Add cream and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh spinach; cook just until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in Parmesan and adjust seasoning: Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated; taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the soup warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the soup will be less creamy.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor results.
