Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Creamy, Cozy Bowl of Love

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Soup. This creamy, dreamy soup is packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth that will have you falling in love at first bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is guaranteed to warm your heart and soul. One bowl, and you’ll see why it’s called Marry Me Chicken Soup—it’s that good!

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this irresistible soup, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and storage advice. Let’s dive in!

---

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Soup

Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about why this soup is so special. Here’s what makes it a standout:

• Rich and Creamy Broth: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a luxurious, velvety broth that’s packed with flavor.
• Tender Chicken: Whether you use rotisserie chicken or cook your own, the shredded chicken adds a hearty, protein-packed element to the soup.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems add a sweet, tangy depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences (more on that later!).

---

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup (full measurements in the printable recipe card below):

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions.
• ½ cup yellow onion, small diced: Adds a sweet, savory base to the soup.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder: For a punch of garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the flavor and adds richness.
• 6 cups chicken stock: The base of the soup.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped: The star ingredient that gives the soup its signature flavor.
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for a shortcut!
• 2 cups small-shape pasta (uncooked): Orecchiette, ditalini, or farfalle are perfect.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness.
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty flavor.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrients.
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar: Brightens the flavors.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, diced onion, ¼ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion begins to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme

Sprinkle in the garlic powder and thyme. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This step helps deepen the flavor of the soup.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Stock

Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in 2 teaspoons salt, sugar, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add the shredded chicken and stir to combine. Cover and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Once the soup is boiling, add the pasta. Stir to prevent sticking. Cover, reduce the heat to a strong simmer, and cook for 8-15 minutes (depending on the pasta type), stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just cooked through.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Spinach

Turn off the heat and uncover the pot. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, red wine vinegar, and spinach. Stir to combine and melt the cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

---

The Origin of Marry Me Chicken Soup

The name Marry Me Chicken Soup is as intriguing as the dish itself. This recipe is inspired by the famous Marry Me Chicken, a creamy, flavorful chicken dish that has gained popularity for its rich taste and romantic backstory. Legend has it that the original Marry Me Chicken got its name because it’s so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! The soup version takes all the beloved elements of the original dish—tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce—and transforms them into a comforting, bowl-friendly format.

The concept of naming a dish after its ability to inspire love isn’t new. Food has always been a universal language of affection, and dishes like this one are designed to evoke warmth, comfort, and joy. The combination of savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself, this soup is a reminder of how food can bring people together.

The soup’s Italian-inspired flavors also play a role in its charm. Sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs like thyme are staples in Italian cuisine, known for their ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. By incorporating these elements, Marry Me Chicken Soup becomes a dish that feels both familiar and special, making it perfect for any occasion.

---

 Tips for Customizing Marry Me Chicken Soup

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Soup is its versatility. While the classic recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to make this soup your own:

1. Switch Up the Protein: While shredded chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap it for other proteins. Try using cooked turkey, ground sausage, or even plant-based alternatives like shredded tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
2. Go Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute the heavy cream with canned coconut milk. It adds a similar creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory broth. You can also use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
3. Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding more vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, or zucchini are great options. You can also stir in kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different leafy green twist.
4. Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. The subtle spiciness complements the creamy broth and adds an extra layer of flavor.
5. Experiment with Pasta: While small pasta shapes like orecchiette or farfalle work best, you can use whatever you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta is a great option for those with dietary restrictions, or you can skip the pasta altogether and add cooked rice or quinoa instead.

By making these small tweaks, you can create a version of Marry Me Chicken Soup that’s uniquely yours while still keeping the essence of the dish intact.

---

Why Marry Me Chicken Soup is Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re a fan of meal prepping, Marry Me Chicken Soup is a fantastic addition to your rotation. Not only is it easy to make in large batches, but it also stores and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. Here’s why this soup is a meal prep superstar:

1. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the entire soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so it tastes even better the next day.
2. Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes exceptionally well. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Versatile Serving Options: Marry Me Chicken Soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.
4. Quick Reheating: When you’re short on time, this soup is a lifesaver. It reheats in just a few minutes, and if it thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency.
5. Portable and Convenient: Pack individual portions in thermoses or microwave-safe containers for an easy lunch option at work or school. It’s a comforting, homemade meal that’s ready whenever you are.

---

Slow Cooker Option

If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Here’s how:

1. Add all ingredients except the pasta, cream, and spinach to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. Stir in the pasta for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Finish with the cream and spinach before serving.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The soup thickens as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

---

Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 353kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 442mg
• Potassium: 582mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 1140IU
• Vitamin C: 9mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 2mg

---

Why It’s Called Marry Me Chicken Soup

The name Marry Me Chicken Soup comes from the original Marry Me Chicken dish, which is known for its irresistible flavors. Legend has it that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal! This soup version captures all the same flavors in a cozy, comforting bowl.

---

Print

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing a special someone, this soup is sure to win hearts. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to fall in love with every spoonful. Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share it with your friends—they’ll thank you!