Name: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup for Heartwarming Family Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or cooked shredded chicken to save time.); 2 teaspoons Kosher salt (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Can substitute with olive oil.); 1.5 cups Medium yellow onion, diced (Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.); Freshly ground black pepper (Adjust to preference.); 2.5 ounces Sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (Use fresh tomatoes for a fresher flavor.); 3 tablespoons Tomato paste (Can omit for a milder soup.); 6 cups Low-sodium chicken broth (Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (Other dried herbs like oregano or basil can work.); Red pepper flakes (Optional for heat; omit for non-spicy version.); 8 ounces Dried medium pasta shells (Substitute with any small pasta.); 5 ounces Baby spinach (Kale or other greens can be used.); 0.75 cups Heavy cream (Coconut cream or a fat-free alternative can be used.); 0.5 ounces Grated Parmesan cheese (More for serving.)

As I stirred the pot of Marry Me Chicken Soup, a wave of cozy nostalgia enveloped me, much like a warm blanket on chilly nights. This creamy comfort food is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather family around the table and share laughter and love. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken recipe, this one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and a delightful creamy broth spiced with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan—perfect for a quick yet heartwarming meal. In just 55 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup that’s bound to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. So, are you ready to bring a taste of comfort to your next dinner?

Why is This Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting, Creamy Delight: This Marry Me Chicken Soup wraps you in warmth with its rich, velvety texture, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Family-Friendly: Designed to please everyone at the table, it’s a dish that invites sharing and joy, perfect for busy weeknights.

One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying laughter and great conversation with loved ones, especially when paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Quick and Easy: In just 55 minutes, you can create a heartwarming meal that feels like it took all day—perfect for those who crave homemade goodness without the fuss.

Versatile Flavors: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or use turkey for a delicious twist. This soup adapts to your tastes, keeping meals exciting!

Embrace the love and warmth of this recipe that draws inspiration from the beloved Marry Me Chicken. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memorable experience!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 ½ pounds) – Provides the protein base; substitute with cooked shredded chicken to save time.
Kosher salt (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor throughout the dish; alter salt amount to taste based on dietary needs.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds richness to the dish; can use olive oil for a lighter alternative.
Medium yellow onion, diced (1 ½ cups) – Offers a sweet and aromatic base; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves) – Provides a pungent, fragrant note; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds heat and depth; adjust to preference.

For the Soup Flavors

Sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (2 ½ ounces) – Provides a tangy sweetness; use fresh tomatoes for a fresher flavor.
Tomato paste (3 tablespoons) – Deepens the tomato flavor of the broth; can omit for a milder soup.
Low-sodium chicken broth (6 cups) – Serves as the soup base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon) – Adds earthy notes; other dried herbs like oregano or basil can work as substitutes.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – Introduces heat; omit for a non-spicy version.

For the Soup Heaviness

Dried medium pasta shells (8 ounces) – Adds heartiness to the soup; substitute with any small pasta.
Baby spinach (5 ounces) – Provides color and nutrition; kale or other greens can be used as alternatives.
Heavy cream (¾ cup) – Delivers a rich and creamy texture; coconut cream or a fat-free alternative can be used.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ ounce for the soup + more for serving) – Unifies flavors with a salty richness; nutritional yeast can substitute for a dairy-free option.

Get ready to savor every sip of this Marry Me Chicken Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning generously with kosher salt. This crucial step elevates the flavor of your Marry Me Chicken Soup right from the start. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare to cook it for the perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the seasoned chicken in batches; brown each batch for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden all over. This step ensures a rich flavor base. Remove browned chicken and set it aside in a bowl while you move on.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This aromatic blend forms the flavorful foundation of your Marry Me Chicken Soup and will infuse the broth with warmth.

Step 4: Stir in the Flavor Boosters
Next, stir in the julienned sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato paste darkens slightly, deepening the flavors. This step adds a wonderful tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.

Step 5: Combine with Broth
Add 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to the pot, along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Increase the heat and bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, stir in 8 ounces of dried medium pasta shells. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cooking uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the pot as the pasta cooks; it will absorb some of the rich broth flavor while adding heartiness to your Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Step 7: Bring Everything Together
Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with 5 ounces of baby spinach. Stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream and ½ ounce of grated Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes velvety and creamy. You’ll see the colors come alive in this comforting dish, signaling it’s almost ready to serve!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup without pasta for optimal texture. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through. Add freshly cooked pasta if desired.

Portioning: Consider portioning into small containers before freezing, making it easier to defrost only what you need for quick meals.

Marry Me Chicken Soup: Endless Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this recipe and customize it just the way you like!

Turkey Twist: Substitute diced cooked turkey instead of chicken, perfect for using up leftovers after holidays.
Vegetable Medley: Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a burst of color and nutrition. This variation will make the soup even heartier!
Spice It Up: For some heat, toss in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce, catering to those who like a spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free version of this delicious soup.
Change the Pasta: Experiment with small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini instead of medium pasta shells for a fun texture twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for a bright, fresh flavor that melds beautifully with the creamy broth.
Omit the Broth: For a thicker consistency, use less broth or even replace it with a homemade cream of chicken soup for a rich experience.
Add a Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving to brighten the flavors, giving it an uplifting boost.

Whether you’re whipping up Fried Chicken Street or enjoying a comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, the possibilities are endless. You can find joy in personalizing your dishes, leading to new family favorites!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Golden Chicken: Ensure chicken is properly browned on the outside to enhance the soup’s flavor. This step adds depth and richness that’s hard to achieve otherwise.
Pasta Timing: If cooking pasta separately, do so to prevent it from getting too soft when added to the Marry Me Chicken Soup later. This keeps the texture just right.
Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking to better control the final flavor. This ensures your soup is perfectly suited to your palate.
Cream Consistency: For an even creamier texture, add the heavy cream at the end, allowing it to warm without boiling. This prevents curdling and enhances richness.
Storage Savvy: If you plan to store leftovers, avoid adding pasta directly into the soup. Cook and store pasta separately to retain its integrity in future servings.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup

There’s nothing like a heartwarming bowl of creamy goodness to create a comforting family meal!

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the rich soup.
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette complements the creaminess, adding a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of this classic side will elevate your dinner experience, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of veggies like carrots and bell peppers, pairing beautifully with the soup’s savory depth.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Stretchy and cheesy, these delightful dips make for a fun and indulgent addition, perfect for family gatherings.
Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc adds a touch of sophistication, with acidity that balances the creaminess perfectly.
Homemade Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits provide a comforting touch, great for sopping up the flavors of the soup while adding a delightful texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can dice the chicken, sauté the aromatics, and prepare the base soup (without adding the cream or pasta) up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to refrigerate the soup in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup back to a simmer, stir in the pasta, and add the cream, spinach, and Parmesan until heated through. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal on the table with minimal effort!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this soup?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, about 1 ½ pounds. If you’re short on time, feel free to substitute with cooked shredded chicken; it will save you some prep time while still providing great flavor!

How should I store leftovers of the Marry Me Chicken Soup?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to maintain the soup’s texture, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! For best texture, freeze the soup without the pasta. Portion it into airtight containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove. Add freshly cooked pasta to maintain its quality!

What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
If your Marry Me Chicken Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a little chicken broth or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute ingredients; for instance, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. Always check for allergies, especially with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or cheese.

How can I tell if my chicken is cooked through?
To ensure your chicken is properly cooked, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer or cut into the chicken to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.