Marry Me Chicken Soup

Name: Marry Me Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs); 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar; 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 32 oz or 2 packages chicken broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish); 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat); 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta; 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature); 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

Author: Lora

Published: May 17, 2025

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Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Soup

Have you ever wanted to impress your family with a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting? Let me introduce you to Marry Me Chicken Soup! This delightful concoction is like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, offering warmth and flavor in every spoonful. Perfect for those hectic days, when you’re juggling groceries and kids’ homework, this creamy soup combines sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs for an experience that’s simply irresistible. It’s not just a meal; it’s a love letter to your taste buds and a blissful way to gather around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. The rich, creamy texture and burst of flavors will make you feel like a gourmet chef, all while using simple ingredients. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens and protein, ensuring your family enjoys a wholesome, soul-soothing meal they won’t forget any time soon.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll find a beautiful mix of flavors that come together effortlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a burst of tangy sweetness. Look for those packed in oil for extra flavor.
Oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar: This infused oil serves as a perfect base to enrich your soup.
Chopped yellow onion: Onions are the backbone of most soups, providing essential sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will elevate your soup’s aroma and taste, giving it that lovely Italian flair.
Tomato paste: A spoonful of tomato paste contributes a concentrated tomato flavor, intensifying the overall dish.
Chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt levels. It serves as the soul of your soup.
Heavy whipping cream: This is where the creaminess comes from, making your soup rich and indulgent.
Fresh basil: Using fresh basil brings a vibrant herbaceous note. Dried basil is a decent substitute when fresh is unavailable.
Kosher salt: Just the right amount enhances all the wonderful flavors in your soup.
Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses your soup with that classic Italian taste.
Garlic powder: This adds another layer of garlic goodness, perfect for those who love its flavor.
Crushed red pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, adjust this according to your taste.
Medium shell pasta: These little shells hold the soup, making every bite a delightful experience.
Fresh baby spinach: Adding spinach not only boosts nutrition but also brings a fresh color to your soup.
Shredded rotisserie chicken: For convenience, rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Cream cheese: This creamy addition gives a luxurious texture to your soup.
Finely shredded Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this at the end adds a deliciously salty finish.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find the full recipe available for printing!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Start by heating the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil will sizzle, inviting a wave of flavor. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them softened and fragrant, creating a wonderful base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup. The aroma filling your kitchen is just the beginning of your culinary adventure!

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Next, it’s time to stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook them for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it deepens the flavors beautifully. Watch as the tomato paste darkens slightly, releasing a vibrant scent. The sun-dried tomatoes will plump up, and the colors in your pot will brighten, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Cream

Now, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Sprinkle in fresh basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Stir gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and enrich your Marry Me Chicken Soup!

Step 4: Incorporate Pasta

Time to add the uncooked medium shell pasta! Drop those little shells into your bubbling pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let everything cook for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy. This is where the soup starts to become a hearty delight, filling your kitchen with enticing smells.

Step 5: Mix in Spinach and Chicken

Lower the heat to low, and it’s time to stir in the fresh baby spinach and shredded rotisserie chicken. Add the room temperature cream cheese and finely shredded Parmesan next. Stir often for about 5 minutes, ensuring the cheeses melt beautifully into the soup. Each spoonful will be creamy, comforting goodness combined with vibrant greens and tender chicken—a true hug in a bowl!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls, inviting your family to join you at the table. Garnish each serving with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for those who like it spicy. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side. Watching your loved ones indulge in this bowl of love will warm your heart, making every effort worthwhile!

Tips for Success

Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for better flavor.
Don’t skip the cream cheese; it adds an irresistible creaminess.
Adjust the crushed red pepper for a heat level that works for your family.
Feel free to use leftover chicken for even quicker prep!
Garnish generously for that restaurant-worthy presentation.

Equipment Needed

Large Dutch oven: A heavy pot is ideal, but any large pot works.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring, or use a silicone spatula.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in your ingredients.
Knife and chopping board: For prepping your vegetables.
Serving bowls: Any bowl can work, but larger ones are perfect for soup.

Variations of Marry Me Chicken Soup

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for cannellini beans or chickpeas to make it a hearty vegetarian soup. You can also replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Spicy Twist: Kick up the heat by adding more crushed red pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Jalapeños also make a delightful addition.
Pasta Options: If you crave something different, substitute medium shell pasta with orzo, rice, or gluten-free pasta for a unique texture.
Herb Variations: Experiment with using fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley in place of basil for a new flavor profile.
Low-Fat Version: Use light cream cheese and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories but keep the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Marry Me Chicken Soup with crusty garlic bread for a comforting combo.
Top with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Serve with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.
Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an appealing presentation!

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just put it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as it may expand when frozen!

Can I substitute ingredients?

Definitely! If you’re out of cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt or additional heavy cream instead. Fresh spinach can be swapped for kale, and feel free to customize the pasta according to your preference. This recipe is quite forgiving!

Is Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check that your chicken broth and other packaged ingredients are also labeled gluten-free for a worry-free meal!

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?

I recommend crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even garlic bread for that perfect accompaniment. You could also serve it with a crisp white wine to elevate the meal experience!

Final Thoughts

Making Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just cooking; it’s an experience filled with love and joy. As each ingredient comes together, I can almost hear the giggles around the dining table and feel the warmth that only a homemade meal can provide. This recipe brings comfort, nourishment, and a bit of romance to the chaos of everyday life as a busy mom or professional. I hope you enjoy every flavorful spoonful, as your loved ones savor the magic that’s been crafted in your kitchen. After all, when food tastes this good, it truly brings us together!