Marry me chicken soup
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s a…
By Emily
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Reading time: 6 min
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Marry Me Chicken Soup is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s a mix of creamy textures and savory ingredients that come together in a bowl full of goodness. The name alone makes it feel like something special and inviting to share with someone you love.
I love making this soup when I want to treat myself or my family to something both cozy and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken gets perfectly tender, and the broth is rich and comforting without being heavy. A little tip: adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top brings it all to life and makes every spoonful taste even better.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this soup is with a side of crusty bread for dipping, making it a full meal that’s easy to enjoy at the end of a busy day. I’ve found that this soup always brings a smile to everyone’s face, and it feels like a hug in a bowl that you can’t help but want to share again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken
- I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, lean meat. Thighs work too if you want a juicier, richer flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also a great time saver.
- Half
- and-Half or Cream: Half-and-half keeps the soup lighter but creamy. For dairy-free, try coconut milk or oat milk; they add creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
- Tomatoes
- Grape or cherry tomatoes add freshness and color. If you don’t have these, canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes work well, but adjust seasoning to balance acidity.
- Pasta
- Small shells or tortellini add wonderful texture. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or swap with rice or quinoa for a different twist.
- Spinach
- Fresh spinach wilts quickly and adds nutrients and color. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard—just add them a bit earlier so they soften properly.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor From the Herbs and Broth?
The broth and herbs are key to this soup’s rich taste. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil for a flavorful base. Use good-quality chicken broth to give the soup depth.
- Add dried herbs early in the simmering process so they release their flavors.
- If using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary sprigs, tie them together or use a herb infuser to easily remove later.
- Simmer tomatoes in the broth to let their juices mix well, balancing the creaminess.
- Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to customize heat and seasoning.
Taking your time to build flavors layer by layer ensures a delicious, comforting soup every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – perfect for even cooking and simmering the soup without burning.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your pot.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – you’ll need these to chop onions, garlic, and herbs easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your seasonings and liquids balanced every time.
- Ladle – for serving the soup neatly into bowls without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick, tasty twist that works well with the herbs.
- Add diced carrots and celery for extra crunch and a classic soup veggie combo you’ll love.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese just before serving for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Include a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar to brighten the broth at the end.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 1 cup small pasta shells or tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh sprigs
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or fresh sprigs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 to 30 minutes to cook, making it a cozy meal ready in under an hour. It’s a quick and comforting soup you can enjoy any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra 30 seconds until you smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Build the Broth and Add Chicken:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the broth to warm through.
3. Add Tomatoes and Herbs:
Stir in the grape or cherry tomatoes along with the oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the small pasta shells or tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually about 7 to 9 minutes, until al dente.
5. Finish With Cream and Greens:
Turn down the heat and stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream, then add the fresh spinach leaves. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Remove any fresh herb sprigs you added. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking and shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method in cold water. This helps maintain the right texture and ensures even cooking.
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream?
You can use coconut milk or any creamy plant-based milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind these may slightly change the flavor. For a lighter soup, plain milk or Greek yogurt (added off heat) can work too.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating.