Did you know that one of the most romantic dishes out there is a soup? That's right! The legendary Marry Me Chicken has been transformed into a delightful Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup that’s bound to make hearts flutter. The moment I took my first sip of this creamy comfort, I was swept off my feet by its rich flavors and soothing warmth—ideal for those brisk, chilly evenings when all you crave is something cozy and delicious. This gluten-free soup not only delivers on taste but is also remarkably easy to whip up, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile; you can adjust the ingredients to create a dairy-free version or switch up the pasta to suit your preferences.
With just the right balance of tender chicken, hearty pasta, and vibrant greens, this soup is sure to become a household favorite in no time. Ready to discover how to make a dish that everyone will be begging for? Let’s get started!
Why is Marry Me Chicken Soup so special?
Overwhelming Comfort: This soup wraps you in warm, creamy goodness, transforming any chilly night into a cozy affair.
Heartfelt Flavor: Combining tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a taste that feels like a warm embrace.
Quick to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes without sacrificing quality.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer a dairy-free alternative or different pasta shapes, this recipe is flexible to fit your dietary needs.
Family Approved: Serve it with crusty bread, and watch as everyone asks for seconds, making it a hit at any gathering. Check out my Crockpot Marry Me Chicken for another delightful recipe twist!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
Fall in love with these delectable components that make this Marry Me Chicken Soup irresistible!
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For the Soup Base
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Olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics; substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.
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Onion, diced – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; finely dice for even cooking.
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Garlic, minced – Enhances overall aroma and flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
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Sun-dried tomatoes, in olive oil – Adds tanginess and umami; choose dry for a lighter option.
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Tomato paste – Thickens the soup and intensifies tomato flavor; consider tomato puree as a substitute.
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Chicken broth – Acts as the soup base; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
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Salt – Enhances overall taste; start with less and adjust based on preference.
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Pepper – Adds mild heat; use freshly cracked for the best flavor.
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Italian seasoning – Delivers classic herb flavors; replace with individual herbs like oregano if desired.
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Crushed red pepper – Introduces warmth; omit for a milder soup or adjust to taste.
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For Texture and Substance
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Gluten-free shell pasta (or pasta of choice) – Provides heartiness; try shapes that hold broth well.
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Shredded cooked chicken – Adds protein and substance; rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
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Fresh baby spinach – Offers vitamins and nutrients; substitute with kale or Swiss chard for variety.
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For Creaminess
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Half & half – Adds extra creaminess; swap for almond milk or coconut milk for dairy-free options.
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Boursin cheese – Provides a creamy texture and flavor; cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative also works.
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Parmesan cheese – Adds savory depth; omit for dairy-free or use nutritional yeast as a substitute.
These ingredients come together harmoniously, making your Marry Me Chicken Soup an enchanting experience you won't want to miss!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, which indicates it’s hot enough to sauté. Add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, stirring frequently. Sauté these aromatics for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender and fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas and turning golden in color.
Step 2
Next, stir in 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook this mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You'll notice the tomatoes becoming slightly softened and the paste incorporated well into the onion-garlic blend. This step adds a rich, tangy base to your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, enhancing its depth of flavor.
Step 3
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, and season the mixture with salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of crushed red pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, which should take about 5-7 minutes. As the broth bubbles, the rich aromas will become even more pronounced, setting the stage for the layers of flavor that are about to be added.
Step 4
Once boiling, add 1 cup of gluten-free shell pasta (or pasta of your choice) to the pot. Stir the pasta gently to prevent sticking and let it cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Keep an eye on it, ensuring that the pasta attains a slightly firm texture, as it will continue to cook as the soup cools.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low and incorporate 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 2 cups of fresh baby spinach, 1 cup of half & half, and 4 ounces of Boursin cheese into the pot. Stir well for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the spinach to wilt. Your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup will start to transform into a velvety creation, with inviting colors and flavors mingling beautifully.
Step 6
Finally, taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Once everything is combined and the spinach is wilted, serve your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup hot. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper, and some grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Each bowl of this delight promises to warm hearts and bellies alike, making it perfect for those cozy nights in.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Transform your cozy bowl of creamy goodness into a full meal with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the flavors of your soup.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping that enhances each spoonful of rich soup.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy broth.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks topped with garlic and herbs elevate the dining experience alongside the soup’s heartiness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with rich flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Toast: Topped with melted cheese, this indulgent addition is perfect for sopping up every creamy drop of the soup.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the savory flavors while enhancing the overall dining experience, making each sip delightful.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings the meal to a sweet close with its comforting and nostalgic flavors.
Each of these options will enhance your Marry Me Chicken Soup experience, creating a memorable meal that your family will adore.
Expert Tips for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients like garlic and spinach for maximum flavor; it truly elevates your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- Cook Pasta Separately: If prepping ahead, cook the pasta separately to prevent it from absorbing the broth and becoming mushy.
- Adjust Consistency: For a creamier soup, add more half & half or adjust with chicken broth for desired thickness; consistency is key!
- Dairy-Free Swap: If you're avoiding dairy, substitute with Nutpods for half & half and Kite Hill cream cheese for a rich, flavorful option.
- Season to Taste: Always adjust salt and spices at the end to suit your palate; flavors meld beautifully as the soup simmers.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container; consume within 3-4 days, and reheat gently to keep the flavors intact.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your creamy soup to make it truly yours.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute half & half with almond or coconut milk, and use Kite Hill cream cheese for a vegan touch.
- Low-Carb: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a light, keto-friendly option.
- Pasta Shapes: Try rotini or penne instead of shell pasta to add fun textures and twists to each bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version that warms you from the inside out.
- Mixed Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard, bringing in earthy flavors and extra nutrients.
- Umami Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an additional depth of flavor.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, enhancing freshness and fragrance.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced carrots and celery at the beginning for a heartier sauce packed with extra veggies.
These variations not only keep things exciting in the kitchen but also ensure that each bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup feels like a new culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Room Temperature: Store the soup at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after cooking to ensure freshness and safety.
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, allowing flavors to meld while keeping everything tasty.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Avoid adding pasta and dairy before freezing to maintain optimal texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the onion and garlic, and even sauté them in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the cooked pasta can be prepared ahead and refrigerated separately to prevent it from soaking up too much broth. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a pot, add the chicken, broth, and remaining elements, then heat everything through. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of this creamy soup with minimal effort on those hectic nights!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What's in Marry Me chicken soup?
This delightful soup includes a creamy blend of olive oil, diced onion, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, shredded cooked chicken, baby spinach, pasta, and half & half, along with seasonings like Italian herbs and pepper. For a cozy twist, I recommend adding Boursin cheese for extra creaminess!
How should I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors develop even more, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be kept for up to 3 months. I often recommend omitting the pasta and cream before freezing. When you're ready to savor it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to bring back that creamy texture.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or a splash of water while reheating. This will help achieve the creamy consistency without losing flavor. Also, you can adjust the half & half to add extra creaminess to your liking when preparing.
Are there dietary considerations for Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes! For gluten-free diets, ensure you're using certified gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, you can substitute half & half with almond or coconut milk, and use Kite Hill cream cheese in place of Boursin cheese. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern, and feel free to customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs!
What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Serve this heartwarming soup with crusty bread for dipping or a refreshing side salad for a well-rounded meal! You could also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving for a burst of flavor and color.
Indulgent Marry Me Chicken Soup You'll Want on Chilly Nights
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- to taste crushed red pepper
- 1 cup gluten-free shell pasta or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup half & half
- 4 ounces Boursin cheese
- to taste grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, season with salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a gentle boil for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of gluten-free shell pasta to the pot, cook according to package directions for about 8-10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 cup of half & half, and 4 ounces of Boursin cheese. Stir for 2-3 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients like garlic and spinach for maximum flavor.
- Cook pasta separately if preparing ahead to prevent mushiness.
- Add more half & half for creaminess or adjust with broth for desired thickness.
- Substitute with Nutpods for dairy-free options.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
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