Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Introduction
I’ll never forget the first time I made marry me chicken soup. It happened on a chilly afternoon when the wind rattled the windowpanes, and I was certain that my family needed something extra soothing on the table. I’d just been reading about a dish called “Marry Me Chicken,” which folks often say tastes so incredible it might just prompt a marriage proposal. While I already had my ring and my husband was happily committed to my cooking, I found myself inspired to create a soup version. I mean, why not turn that rich, creamy chicken dish into a spoonable, comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out? Sometimes I think a simple bowl of soup can say “I love you” just as loudly as a bouquet of flowers.
This marry me chicken soup is creamy, dreamy, and packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. Imagine all the flavor of the original dish tucked into a silky broth. It’s the kind of soup that makes my husband and kiddos sigh with satisfaction. Let’s get cozy and make it together.
What Is Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Marry me chicken soup is a spoonable twist on the popular marry me chicken entrée. While the original dish often involves chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, this variation is a luscious soup. Think tender bites of chicken floating in a creamy broth, flecks of bright sun-dried tomatoes, wisps of fresh basil, and maybe a bit of Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. Some folks love to add pasta or gnocchi for extra heartiness. It’s comfort in a bowl and tastes like something you’d happily serve to someone you adore.
Why Is It Called “Marry Me” Chicken Soup?
The name “marry me chicken” made the rounds as an online sensation, suggesting the dish was so full of flavor that it might pop a marriage proposal right out of someone’s mouth. While I can’t promise proposals, I can say that this soup has an undeniable charm. It’s the kind of dish that makes people feel pampered and special, as if you made it with extra love. Even though I’m already married, I adore the idea behind the name. It reminds me to give each meal that warm, heartfelt touch.
My Personal Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Soup
I have a big family, and feeding everyone is both a joy and a challenge. My husband and I have two kids, and we’re in a season of life where busy evenings can leave us longing for a bowl of something soothing. One day, I had leftover rotisserie chicken in the fridge, a jar of sun-dried tomatoes that had been patiently waiting to shine, and a half-carton of heavy cream begging to be used. I knew the original “marry me chicken” recipe was a hit with friends and online commenters, so I figured I’d bring that concept to the stovetop in soup form.
As I stirred that pot, my kitchen filled with a comforting aroma. My daughter peeked over the counter and asked what smelled so good. My husband offered to slice the bread. By the time dinner rolled around, we had a meal that felt like a warm hug. It’s become a family favorite, and I love that it’s a flexible recipe. I’ve shared it with friends who swapped out ingredients and made it their own. Still, every time I take that first spoonful, I remember the little experiment that led to this cozy, happily-ever-after kind of soup.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes
Ingredient List
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (packed in oil, drained)
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 cups uncooked small pasta shapes (like ditalini or small shells) or gnocchi
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Key Ingredients in the Spotlight
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a deep, tangy sweetness that brightens the creamy broth. They’re a must for that “marry me” flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese: The dynamic duo that creates a luxurious, velvety base.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Using already-cooked chicken speeds things up and boosts flavor. (Rotisserie chicken is often very tender and ready to shred.)
- Fresh Basil: A few leaves added at the end add freshness and color, reminding you that this is a lively, feel-good soup.
Ingredient Substitutions and Tips
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap out heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it’ll still be a delightful bowl.
- Gluten-Free: Choose a gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta and add cooked rice or quinoa.
- Chicken Options: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, use leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs. You can also poach chicken in the broth before adding the cream.
- No Sun-Dried Tomatoes on Hand? A handful of cherry tomatoes roasted in the oven until slightly caramelized can stand in for that sweet-tangy flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
This soup isn’t complicated. Once you’ve chopped the veggies and gathered your ingredients, it all comes together in one big pot on the stovetop. The key is layering flavors: sauté the aromatics, add the broth and seasonings, then stir in the cream and chicken at just the right time to keep everything tender and balanced.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
Melt the butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently. - Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for about a minute to help them release their flavor into the oil and butter. - Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. - Add Seasonings and Pasta:
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Add the uncooked pasta (or gnocchi) to the simmering broth. Let the pasta cook until just al dente, following package instructions minus about 1 minute. Remember you’ll continue cooking it a bit more once the cream and chicken are added. - Stir in the Chicken and Cream:
Add the shredded cooked chicken and heavy cream. Lower the heat so the soup remains at a gentle simmer. - Cheese, Please:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the creamy broth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Finish and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks.
Flavor Variations
While the classic marry me chicken soup is dreamy as is, there’s no reason not to switch things up a bit:
- Spinach and Kale: Stir in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or chopped kale just before serving for extra greens.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese if you’re looking for something a bit lighter.
Serving Suggestions
This soup practically begs for something to dip. A loaf of crusty bread, homemade focaccia, or garlic breadsticks turn a simple bowl into a full meal. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness. For a party or a special dinner, serve smaller bowls as a starter before your main course. And don’t forget a nice glass of wine—something crisp, like a Pinot Grigio, works wonders alongside the creamy broth.
Storage and Reheating Tips
You can refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. If the soup thickens in the fridge (that cream and cheese can thicken things up), just splash in a bit more broth to thin it to your preferred consistency.
If you’ve added pasta to the soup, it may absorb more liquid as it sits. To avoid mushy pasta, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls as you serve. That way, leftovers remain brothy and fresh.
For a helpful resource on proper food storage times, you might check out USDA guidelines (official government information on food safety).
Beyond the Recipe: Cultural and Culinary Tidbits
The idea of “marry me chicken” seems to stem from a romantic notion associated with certain dishes. There’s also a legendary dish known as “Engagement Chicken,” said to have led to multiple marriage proposals. The concept of love and romance tied to food isn’t new. The Italians, for instance, have long called upon cozy, hearty meals to bring folks closer together. This soup draws inspiration from Italian flavors—sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh herbs—reminiscent of Tuscan chicken soups. If you’re curious about Tuscan culinary traditions, The Florentine often shares fascinating insights into the region’s rich food culture.
And speaking of sun-dried tomatoes, did you know these gems were once considered a way to preserve summer’s bounty? They pack an intense flavor punch, making them a valuable pantry staple. You can learn more about sun-dried tomatoes and their history at Specialty Produce which offers great insights into various ingredients.
FAQs
It typically features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy broth, and Parmesan cheese. Some versions add pasta or gnocchi for extra heartiness. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley give it a bright finish.
Yes! Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for richness and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. It won’t taste exactly the same, but still creates a comforting, creamy bowl.
Absolutely. Prepare a big pot and store it in the fridge for a few days. To keep the texture just right, cook your pasta separately and add it when you serve. This prevents the pasta from getting too soft.
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a light green salad. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the rich flavors.
You can freeze the soup base (broth, chicken, tomatoes) before adding cream and cheese. Dairy can separate upon thawing, so consider stirring in the cream and Parmesan after reheating. Pasta doesn’t freeze well, so cook it fresh when serving.
I hope you give this marry me chicken soup a whirl! Let me know how your version turned out. Did you add spinach or maybe a dash of spice? I love hearing about your kitchen adventures. Leave a comment below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, share it with a friend. Nothing brings folks together like a warm meal and a shared story.
Final Thoughts
There’s something about a bowl of creamy soup on a chilly evening that makes life feel just a bit cozier. This marry me chicken soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to settle in, savor the moment, and connect with the people you love. Whether you’re looking to impress a special someone, feed your family, or just treat yourself to a comforting dinner, this soup has you covered. Enjoy it, embrace its warmth, and maybe, just maybe, it’ll spark a moment of pure culinary romance in your kitchen.