“`html

There is something truly magical about the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe, a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, creamy broth, and just the right touch of Parmesan and spinach to create a symphony of flavors that will have you falling in love at first spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your special someone, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite that brings joy and satisfaction into your kitchen.

Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe relies on simple, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in building rich flavor, enticing texture, and beautiful color. Every element, from the savory chicken to the creamy finish, works in harmony to craft a deeply satisfying soup experience.

1 teaspoon olive oil: For a perfect sear on the chicken that locks in flavor.
1-1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced: Tender chicken pieces form the heart of this soup.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided: Adds a fragrant herbal note that ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
½ cup diced carrots: Provides natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
½ cup diced celery: Adds a subtle crunch and earthy depth.
½ cup diced onions: Builds the foundational savoriness.
¼ cup diced sundried tomatoes: Offers a sweet-tart complexity that elevates the soup.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth.
¼ cup flour: Helps thicken the broth into a creamy delight.
2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional): Deepens the richness and adds a subtle tang.
6-8 cups chicken broth: The base that brings everything together; start with 6 cups and adjust as you go.
6 oz Italian small shell pasta: Adds comforting bite and soak-up power.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Brings luxurious creaminess.
½-1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese: Rich, salty, and nutty – it finishes this soup beautifully.
2 ½-3 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a healthy dose of greens.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to your liking. Cook the chicken pieces until they develop a beautiful golden crust on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. This first step locks in moisture and flavor, making every bite irresistibly tender.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, toss in the diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Let these cook down gently until the vegetables soften and become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This is where those vibrant veggies start to release their sweetness and deepen the soup’s complexity.

Step 3: Thicken Things Up

Sprinkle the flour evenly into the vegetables and cook while stirring to avoid lumps. If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and continue stirring. This step is critical to achieving that velvety texture that will make your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe feel like pure comfort in a bowl.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps and deglaze those flavorful browned bits at the bottom of the pot. Depending on your desired soup thickness, use between 6 to 8 cups. Allow the mixture to come to a rolling boil, awakening all the combined flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta and Simmer

Add the pasta along with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low to let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the pasta reaches the perfect al dente texture. Cooking the pasta directly in the soup gives it a hearty character, but you can also cook it separately and add it later if you prefer.

Step 6: Creamy Finish

Stir in the heavy whipping cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, just enough time for the spinach to wilt perfectly and the cheese to melt into a creamy, flavorful masterpiece. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning as needed for your ideal balance.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful aroma and a subtle kick to each spoonful.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing contrast to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in shallow bowls with a swirl of cream on top and some freshly cracked black pepper for visual appeal. For a rustic touch, ladle the soup into a hollowed-out bread bowl or mini pumpkin for festive occasions—just the sort of presentation that’ll make your guests swoon over the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavors and creamy texture. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to reincorporate any separated ingredients.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months, but it’s best to leave out the pasta if planning to freeze, as it can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the soup base separately and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to keep that perfect bite intact.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if it looks too thick. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for even warming. The flavors will still shine brightly with just a little care and patience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and a richer flavor, making your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe even more comforting and satisfying.

Is it okay to substitute heavy cream with milk?

While you can use milk for a lighter version, keep in mind the soup won’t be as creamy and luxurious. For best results, stick with heavy cream to maintain that silky texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

With some adjustments, yes! Replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe’s rich flavor profile can still shine through!

What type of pasta works best?

Small shell pasta is ideal because it holds the broth beautifully and complements the chicken and veggies well. Other small shapes like ditalini or orzo also work great.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too mushy?

Cooking the pasta separately or adding it at the very end of simmering can help maintain its texture. Also, avoid overcooking the pasta in the soup itself to keep it al dente.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your family or impress someone special, the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is a wonderful choice. It’s not just a soup; it’s an experience filled with warmth, love, and flavor that’s simple enough for any day yet special enough for memorable moments. Dive in, savor each spoonful, and you might just find this recipe becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen!

“`