Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, rich, and flavorful one-pot meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and a creamy broth infused with Italian herbs. Perfect for family dinners, romantic evenings, or meal prep, this gluten-free soup offers 41 grams of protein per serving and is ready in just 40 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
• Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients.
• Quick and Convenient: Minimal prep and one-pot cleanup.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a cozy night in or entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable for dietary preferences or ingredient swaps.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for even cooking and accommodating all ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: For precise and efficient chopping of vegetables and chicken.
• Cutting Board: To keep your workspace organized and safe.
• Wooden Spoon: Prevents scratching while stirring.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.

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Preparation Tips

1. Prep Ingredients First: Chop vegetables, slice sun-dried tomatoes, and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces before starting.
2. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds unmatched flavor.
3. Rinse Pasta if Needed: If you’re using pasta that tends to stick, rinse it lightly before adding it to the pot.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks or 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced

Flavor Base

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
• 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Creamy Finish

• 1/3 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Add-ins

• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small-shaped pasta)
• 2 handfuls baby spinach

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons parsley or basil, finely chopped

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the carrots, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

3. Build the Flavorful Broth

Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot. Stir well to prevent sticking. Cover the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

5. Add the Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Mix gently until the spinach is wilted and everything is combined. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite side dish!

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Tips for Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with white beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Extra Creamy: Increase the heavy cream to 1/2 cup or stir in a dollop of cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your table:

1. Crusty Artisan Bread

Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. A baguette or sourdough loaf works wonderfully.

2. Garlic Butter Breadsticks

Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with Parmesan add a comforting, savory touch.

3. Side Salad

A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup. Options include:

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and croutons.
• Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette: A tangy, citrusy dressing complements the creamy soup.

4. Wine Pairing

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the soup’s creamy and tangy elements. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water infused with lemon or lime.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best recipes can encounter pitfalls. Follow these tips to perfect your soup every time:

1. Overcooking the Chicken

• Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
• Avoid simmering the chicken for too long after browning, as it may become tough.

2. Sticking Pasta

• Stir the pasta frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• For better texture, avoid overcooking the pasta—it should be al dente.

3. Skipping the Rest Time

• Allow the soup to rest, covered, for 5 minutes after cooking. This step enhances the flavor and allows the spinach to wilt perfectly.

4. Using Pre-Grated Cheese

• Pre-grated Parmesan may contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your own for the creamiest results.

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Side Dish Recommendations

1. Garlic Knots

• Soft, buttery, and perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

2. Caprese Salad

• Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, roasted with olive oil and Italian herbs.

4. Parmesan Croutons

• Homemade croutons sprinkled with Parmesan and baked until golden provide a satisfying crunch.

5. Cheesy Breadsticks

• Fluffy breadsticks topped with melted mozzarella or cheddar cheese.

6. Pesto Pasta Salad

• A chilled pasta salad tossed with basil pesto adds a bright, herby flavor to your meal.

7. Zucchini Fries

• Baked zucchini sticks seasoned with garlic and Parmesan make for a healthy, crispy side.

8. Simple Arugula Salad

• Peppery arugula dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan offers a light, refreshing option.

Recipe Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Ingredients:
   • Freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality sun-dried tomatoes are key to enhancing the flavors of this dish.
2. Season Gradually:
   • Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The cheese adds saltiness, so go easy at first.
3. Customize the Texture:
   • For a thicker soup, use slightly less broth or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
   • Toss in fresh basil or parsley right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Keep it Gluten-Free:
   • Replace the pasta with gluten-free options or substitute with cooked rice or quinoa.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

1. On the Stove:
   • Pour the soup into a pot and reheat on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
2. In the Microwave:
   • Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
3. Thawing Frozen Soup:
   • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove.

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FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, coconut cream, or a plant-based cream alternative can be used for a lighter or dairy-free option.

3. Can I skip the sun-dried tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor, you can substitute them with fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.

5. Can I omit the pasta?

Yes! Replace the pasta with cooked rice, quinoa, or even extra vegetables for a low-carb version.

6. Is it safe to freeze soup with pasta?

Pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. To avoid this, cook the pasta separately and add it fresh when reheating.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well! Use a larger pot and adjust cooking times slightly as needed.

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Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a recipe that combines heartwarming flavors with a simple, straightforward preparation. Its creamy texture, protein-packed goodness, and comforting aroma make it a must-have for any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers, this soup is guaranteed to impress.

Pair it with your favorite sides, customize it to suit your taste, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. It just might become the dish that wins hearts—one bowl at a time! ❤️

For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other comforting soup recipes and one-pot meal ideas. Happy cooking!