Marry Me Chicken Soup: Cozy and Delicious Comfort

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate winter comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. This creamy, rich soup is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and delightful seasonings, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and enjoy the delightful flavors together!

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Its creamy texture combined with the savory taste of chicken creates a cozy experience in every spoonful. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Flavor

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1-1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup diced carrots
• ½ cup diced celery
• ½ cup diced onions
• ¼ cup diced sundried tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (start with 6 cups)
• 6 oz pasta (e.g., Italian small shells)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½-1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2½-3 cups fresh spinach

Optional Ingredients for Extra Richness

• Red peppers
• Mushrooms
• Corn
• Broccoli
• Kale
• Zucchini
• Mozzarella cheese
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh lemon juice

Best Chicken to Use

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts vs. Thighs

Both chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully in this recipe. Breasts are lean and provide a lighter flavor, while thighs add richness and tenderness. Choose based on your preference!

Using Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

If you’re short on time, feel free to use rotisserie chicken. It simplifies your preparation and still results in a flavorful soup that everyone will love.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Recommended Pasta Shapes

Italian small shells or ditalini are ideal for this soup, as they hold onto the broth beautifully. However, feel free to use any small pasta you have on hand!

Cooking Pasta Separately vs. Directly in Soup

You can either cook the pasta in the soup for a one-pot meal or prepare it separately to maintain its texture. If you prefer al dente pasta, cooking it separately is a smart choice!

Cooking Equipment Needed

Best Pot for Making Soup

A large soup pot or Dutch oven is perfect for making Marry Me Chicken Soup. It allows for even cooking and plenty of space for all your ingredients.

Essential Utensils for Preparation

Make sure to have a wooden spoon for stirring, measuring cups for accuracy, and a sharp knife for chopping vegetables. These tools will make your cooking experience delightful!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Making the Soup Base

Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir well to combine. If desired, add tomato paste at this stage and mix thoroughly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps while deglazing the bottom of the pot.

Adding Pasta and Final Touches

Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta and remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cover, reduce heat to low, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente. Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetable Additions for Extra Flavor

For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like red peppers, broccoli, or kale. They add vibrant color and enhance the taste of the soup.

Dairy Alternatives for Creaminess

If you want a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half and half, milk, or even full-fat coconut milk for a different twist.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Best Practices for Storing Soup

Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container for 3-4 days. To keep the soup fresh, avoid adding the pasta until you’re ready to serve.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Flavor

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency and bring back the creamy texture.

How to Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup

Freezing Techniques to Maintain Quality

If you want to freeze the soup, omit the heavy cream during cooking. This prevents curdling, ensuring that your soup remains delicious when you thaw it.

Reheating Frozen Soup

When ready to enjoy, reheat your frozen soup on the stove and add the cream just before serving for a luscious finish.

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

• Comforting Potsticker Soup
• Creamy Potato Soup
• Sausage Potato Soup
• Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
• Roasted Vegetable Soup

FAQs

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that will surely impress your family and friends. For more delicious ideas, check out Elly’s recipes on Pinterest to discover even more comforting meals. Enjoy this cozy soup this winter, and watch as it becomes a staple in your home!