Marry Me Chicken Soup

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your heart and soul. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this creamy soup features sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and rich parmesan cheese. Each spoonful promises satisfaction, making it an instant favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs creates a rich, savory broth that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any pasta shape you have on hand for added convenience.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream ensures a luxuriously smooth texture that elevates this soup to gourmet status.
• Nutrient-Rich: With fresh spinach and basil, this soup not only tastes great but is also packed with vitamins.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Marry Me Chicken Soup seamlessly, having the right tools is essential. These kitchen staples will help you prepare this delicious meal with ease.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and precise slicing of vegetables and proteins for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This marry me chicken soup recipe is packed with goodness and has a light yet creamy broth. There’s plenty of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and parmesan!

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (I use double concentrated)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see note)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Broth

• 1/2 cup dry white grape juice
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken
• 1.5 cups uncooked rotini or fusilli pasta

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more, for serving)

For Freshness

• 2-3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup (loosely packed) fresh basil (torn/sliced)

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the oil, butter, and onion to a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Add the garlic, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Grape Juice

Pour in the grape juice and let it bubble for 1-2 minutes while stirring to incorporate the tomato paste mixture thoroughly.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Add in the chicken broth and increase the heat to high. Once boiling, add the pasta. Reduce heat and simmer covered with the lid slightly open for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Mix in Cream and Chicken

Stir in the cream along with the cooked chicken. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the pasta is tender and chicken is warmed through.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the burner. Stir in parmesan cheese, spinach, and basil. Season with salt & pepper as needed. Serve once spinach has wilted, topping each bowl with extra parmesan if desired.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, as this dish can be enjoyed in various ways. The creamy broth and rich flavors make it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve warm slices of sourdough or a crispy baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Enjoy buttery garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor that complements the soup.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, parmesan, and croutons pairs well with the soup’s richness.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for added color and freshness.
• Extra Basil: Add more torn basil leaves just before serving to enhance the aroma and flavor.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To achieve the best version of Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste; this enhances all flavors.
• Use quality chicken broth: A rich homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth will elevate the overall flavor of your soup.
• Cook pasta separately: If you prefer your pasta less soggy, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Experiment with greens: Feel free to mix in other greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrition.
• Let it rest: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Try different cheeses: For variety, experiment with different types of cheese like pecorino or fontina for topping.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its comforting nature. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with melted cheese and garlic are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds a healthy touch and complements the flavors.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a nutritious contrast and adds texture.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until golden offer a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for an eye-catching side that’s also filling.
6. Spanish Rice: Flavorful Spanish rice seasoned with herbs can be a great accompaniment, adding depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and spinach enhance flavor. Always add them just before serving for the best taste.
• Overcooking Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Add it to the soup and keep an eye on it, ensuring it’s al dente.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can be bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for a rich, delicious flavor.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir can lead to pasta sticking. Stir occasionally while it simmers to keep everything evenly cooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup so special?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is special due to its rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs combined with creamy textures. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini, swap out proteins, or adjust spices according to your preference.

How do I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Marry Me Chicken Soup is ideal for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful recipe that combines comforting flavors with creamy goodness. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl that’s sure to impress!

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