Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe

From the moment the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew this soup was something special. The creamy tomato-based broth, infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, is simply intoxicating. Tender chicken pieces and hearty vegetables simmered to perfection create a symphony of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. My family devoured this soup with gusto, declaring it an instant favorite. It’s become our go-to meal on chilly evenings, and it’s also perfect for meal prepping or bringing to potlucks. If you’re searching for a chicken soup recipe that’s anything but ordinary, a soup that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress, then you absolutely must try this Marry Me Chicken Soup. Get ready to fall in love – with your new favorite soup, that is!

Ingredients for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Soup

To create this enchanting Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll need a selection of fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a truly memorable dish. Each component contributes to the soup’s rich taste and comforting texture. Here’s what you need to gather:

For the Soup Base:

• Chicken Broth: 8 cups, low sodium. Chicken broth is the foundation of our soup, providing a rich and savory base. Using low sodium broth allows you to control the salt level and ensures the other flavors shine through. High-quality chicken broth will significantly enhance the overall taste.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Heavy cream is the key to the soup’s luxurious creaminess, giving it a velvety texture and rich flavor. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the soup will be less decadent. Full-fat coconut milk can also be used for a dairy-free alternative with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained. Diced tomatoes provide a bright acidity and a touch of sweetness to the soup base. Undrained tomatoes add extra liquid and flavor. You can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth or crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: ½ cup, drained and chopped. Sun-dried tomatoes are the star ingredient, infusing the soup with intense, sweet, and tangy flavor. Drained and chopped sun-dried tomatoes ensure they are easy to incorporate and distribute evenly throughout the soup. Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are preferred for their richer flavor and softer texture.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Onion provides a foundational savory flavor base for the soup. Yellow or white onions work well. Dice the onion finely so it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that is essential to the Marry Me Chicken flavor profile. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic and adds a touch of richness and flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its flavor and health benefits.

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this soup. Cutting it into smaller pieces ensures even cooking and allows it to integrate seamlessly into the soup. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, but they may require slightly longer cooking time.
• Asparagus: 1 pound, fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces. Fresh asparagus provides a vibrant green color, a delicate flavor, and a slightly crisp texture that complements the creamy soup. It’s best to use fresh asparagus for optimal flavor and texture. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus before cutting into pieces.
• Spinach: 5 ounces, fresh spinach, roughly chopped. Fresh spinach adds a boost of nutrients, color, and a mild earthy flavor. Roughly chopping it makes it easier to incorporate into the soup and ensures it wilts down nicely. You can also use baby spinach for convenience.

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• Dried Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons. Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor to the soup. It typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Dried oregano enhances the Italian flavor profile and adds a slightly peppery and earthy note.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the soup, balancing the richness and creaminess. Adjust the amount to your preference, or omit if you prefer a milder soup.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste). Salt enhances all the flavors in the soup. Adjust the amount to your preference, considering the saltiness of the chicken broth.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice, rounding out the flavor profile. Freshly ground is always preferred for the best aroma and taste.
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish. Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous, and slightly sweet aroma and flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. It’s best added as a garnish at the end to retain its freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For garnish (optional). Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and savory flavor as a garnish, enhancing the overall Italian-inspired taste.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a truly enchanting Marry Me Chicken Soup that will win hearts and warm souls!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soul-Warming Marry Me Chicken Soup

Creating this comforting and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bring this delightful soup to life:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Brown Chicken: Add bite-sized pieces of chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the soup. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the soup.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in canned diced tomatoes (undrained), chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to slightly soften.
4. Pour in Chicken Broth: Pour chicken broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (deglazing the pot adds extra flavor!). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Stir in Asparagus and Spinach: Add trimmed and chopped asparagus to the soup and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and bright green. Stir in roughly chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
6. Stir in Heavy Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Heat through gently, being careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as it may curdle. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the soup is heated through and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
7. Season to Taste and Serve: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Serve hot and enjoy!

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a soul-warming and incredibly flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal or any special occasion. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone fall in love!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients, vegetable amounts, and serving size. These values are approximate and based on a 1.5 cup serving. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.)

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups

Servings per recipe: Approximately 6-8 servings

Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Total Fat: 25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15-18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-12g
• Cholesterol: 150-180mg
• Sodium: 500-700mg (Sodium content can vary depending on the chicken broth and canned tomatoes used.)
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugars: 7-9g
• Protein: 30-35g

Important Considerations:

• Fat Content: The creamy texture comes primarily from heavy cream and olive oil, contributing to a higher fat content. Using half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream will reduce the fat and calorie content, but the soup will be less rich.
• Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using regular chicken broth and canned tomatoes. Opting for low-sodium broth and no-salt-added canned tomatoes can help lower the sodium levels.
• Protein Source: This soup is a good source of lean protein from the chicken breast.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus and spinach contribute vitamins and minerals, while tomatoes provide antioxidants.

This Marry Me Chicken Soup, while a comforting and flavorful meal, should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Adjusting ingredients like using lighter cream or increasing vegetable content can modify its nutritional profile.

Preparation Time: Comforting Soup in Under an Hour

Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also relatively quick to prepare, making it a great option for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes chopping onions, garlic, chicken, asparagus, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (This includes sautéing, simmering, and finishing the soup.)
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Hands-on time is moderate, with most of the time spent on chopping vegetables and browning chicken. The simmering time is largely hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the soup develops its rich flavors. This makes it a manageable recipe for weeknight dinners or weekend meals when you want something comforting but not overly time-consuming.

How to Serve Your Marry Me Chicken Soup: Cozy and Versatile

Marry Me Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Hearty Main Course:
  • Cozy Dinner: Perfect as a comforting and satisfying main course for a chilly evening.
  • Weeknight Meal: A flavorful and relatively quick option for a weeknight dinner.
  • Weekend Lunch: Enjoy it as a hearty and warming lunch on a relaxed weekend day.
• With Delicious Accompaniments:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or focaccia for dipping into the creamy broth.
  • Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. A Caesar salad or a Caprese salad would also complement the soup beautifully.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing with tomato-based soups, a grilled cheese sandwich adds extra comfort and heartiness.
  • Parmesan Crisps: Offer Parmesan crisps or crackers for added texture and cheesy flavor.
• Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:
  • Casual Family Dinner: Serve family-style directly from the pot or transfer to a large serving bowl.
  • Potlucks and Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, casual get-togethers, or soup swaps. Transport the soup in a slow cooker or insulated container to keep it warm.
  • Elegant Starter: For a more refined presentation, serve smaller portions as a starter course in shallow bowls or soup cups at a dinner party.
• Garnishing Ideas:
  • Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil is a must-have garnish, adding freshness and aroma.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a salty note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Offer extra red pepper flakes on the side for those who want to increase the heat.
  • Dollop of Cream: A small dollop of sour cream, crème fraîche, or plain Greek yogurt can add extra creaminess and tang.
  • Croutons: Toasted croutons add a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy soup.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to be a comforting and memorable meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Additional Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup

Want to make your Marry Me Chicken Soup truly exceptional? Here are five helpful tips to ensure soup perfection every time:

1. Bloom the Spices: Sautéing the Italian seasoning and oregano with the onions and garlic (before adding the chicken) helps to “bloom” the spices, releasing their aromatic oils and enhancing their flavor in the soup. This simple step makes a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken breast, as it can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned on the outside and then allow it to finish cooking in the simmering broth. This will ensure tender and juicy chicken pieces in your soup.
3. Use Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The flavor of sun-dried tomatoes is central to this soup, so using good quality, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes is key. Look for brands that are plump and have a rich, tangy aroma. Draining them well before chopping prevents excess oil in the soup.
4. Adjust Heat to Your Preference: Marry Me Chicken Soup has a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce or omit them. For a spicier soup, add a pinch more or serve with extra red pepper flakes on the side.
5. Fresh Basil is Essential for Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish! Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the rich and creamy soup. It’s best to add it right before serving to maintain its freshness and aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, fresh parsley can be used as a substitute, but basil is highly recommended for the authentic Marry Me Chicken flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable Marry Me Chicken Soup that will impress everyone who tries it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Marry Me Chicken Soup

Got questions about making Marry Me Chicken Soup? Here are answers to some common queries to help you achieve soup success:

Q1: Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, Marry Me Chicken Soup is a great make-ahead dish! In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen even more when the soup is refrigerated overnight. Prepare the soup according to the recipe instructions, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much upon reheating.

Q2: Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup, but the creamy texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating due to the heavy cream. For best results when freezing:
* Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
* Freeze in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion.
* Freeze in portion sizes for easy thawing and reheating.
* Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
* Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the desired consistency, as the cream may separate slightly upon thawing.

Q3: Can I make a dairy-free version of Marry Me Chicken Soup?

A: Yes, you can make a delicious dairy-free version of Marry Me Chicken Soup. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. Coconut milk will provide a similar richness and creaminess, while also adding a subtle coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients. Ensure all other ingredients, like chicken broth, are also dairy-free if necessary.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to Marry Me Chicken Soup?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding other vegetables. Some great additions include:
* Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
* Bell peppers: Diced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness and crunch.
* Carrots: Diced carrots add sweetness and heartiness.
* Zucchini: Diced zucchini cooks quickly and adds a mild flavor.
* Kale: Add chopped kale along with the spinach for extra greens and nutrients.

Adjust cooking times as needed depending on the type and size of vegetables added. Heartier vegetables like carrots and bell peppers should be added earlier in the cooking process.

Q5: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

A: If you don’t have oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, you can use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes. To rehydrate them and enhance their flavor:
* Soak dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes in hot water for about 15-20 minutes, or until softened.
* Drain the tomatoes and chop them before adding them to the soup.
* You may need to add a teaspoon of olive oil or a touch more chicken broth to compensate for the lack of oil from oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.

Print