There’s something magical about a bowl of warm, creamy soup that feels like a hug in every spoonful. Marry Me Chicken Soup takes that comfort to the next level with its rich, velvety broth, tender shredded chicken, and bursts of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress someone special, this dish will have everyone swooning. Who knows? It might just inspire a proposal!
Table of Contents
Could This Soup Really Make Someone Propose?
If you’ve heard of Marry Me Chicken, you already know about its legendary reputation. The idea is simple, this dish is so irresistibly delicious that it could convince someone to pop the question! While the original is a creamy chicken skillet dish, this soup version transforms the flavors into a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. It’s creamy, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent. One spoonful, and you’ll understand why it has such a romantic name!
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Creamy and comforting – The velvety broth, made with heavy cream and Parmesan, creates a luxurious texture.
- Easy to make – A one-pot recipe that comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs make every bite irresistible.
- Great for leftovers – The flavors only get better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Family-approved – Even picky eaters love this rich and creamy soup, especially when served with crusty bread!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
To make Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll need a mix of rich, creamy ingredients and bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken – Cooked and shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works best.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor.
- Garlic & Onion – Essential aromatics for a flavorful base.
- Chicken Broth – Creates a rich and savory soup base.
- Heavy Cream – Makes the soup luxuriously creamy.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds nuttiness and depth.
- Spinach – Fresh spinach adds color and a nutritional boost.
- Seasonings – Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper bring everything together.
Note: You can find the printable recipe with exact measurements below.
Variations and Substitutions
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based alternative like cashew cream. Instead of Parmesan, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Gluten-Free Options
This soup is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your broth and seasonings to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten. If adding pasta, use a gluten-free variety like chickpea or rice noodles.
Vegetarian Adaptations
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and consider adding mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step-by-Step Guide to Marry Me Chicken Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the soup.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir them into the aromatics, allowing them to soften and release their deep, tangy flavor. Let them cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
3. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in 1/2 cup of white wine or a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth to the broth and ensures every bit of flavor is incorporated into the soup.
4. Pour in Broth and Add Seasonings:
Slowly add chicken broth and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Simmer and Add Chicken:
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the broth. Let it warm through and absorb all the rich flavors.
6. Stir in Heavy Cream and Parmesan:
Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously to blend it into the broth. Then, sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, creating a creamy, silky texture. The soup should now have a luxurious, velvety consistency.
7. Fold in Fresh Spinach:
Finally, add fresh spinach leaves, stirring them into the hot soup. Within a minute or two, they’ll wilt beautifully into the creamy broth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side!
Alternative Cooking Methods
Slow Cooker Method
For an effortless version, add chicken, broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, onion, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Shred the chicken, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and spinach in the last 30 minutes. Serve once the spinach is wilted and everything is creamy.
Instant Pot Method
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and cook the onions and garlic for a few minutes. Add sun-dried tomatoes, broth, seasonings, and chicken, then seal the lid. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and spinach, then let it sit for a couple of minutes until creamy and well combined.
Stovetop Method
This is the classic way! Follow the step-by-step guide above using a large pot over medium heat. Simmer the soup until the flavors meld together, then stir in the cream, Parmesan, and spinach at the end. The stovetop method gives you full control over the texture and seasoning adjustments as you cook.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
Tips for Perfectly Creamy Soup
- Use freshly grated Parmesan to ensure it melts smoothly.
- Warm the heavy cream before adding it to prevent curdling.
- Let the soup simmer gently so that the dairy does not separate.
- Add spinach at the end to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the deglazing step and missing out on rich, caramelized flavors.
- Overcooking the chicken, which can dry it out.
- Adding cream too early can lead to curdling. Always stir it in at the end.
- Not seasoning enough; adjust salt and pepper after adding Parmesan, as cheese is naturally salty.
- Using low-fat substitutes may compromise the luxurious texture of the soup.
How to Serve
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup
A warm bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup is even better with the right sides! Serve it with crusty bread like a toasted baguette or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, pair it with Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken for a sweet and savory contrast.
Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flavor
Elevate your bowl with simple yet flavorful toppings! Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick, or add crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Fresh chopped basil or parsley brings a pop of color and brightness. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the soup’s depth, making each bite even more irresistible.
Marry Me Chicken Soup Nutrition Facts
Caloric Breakdown and Key Nutrients
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal | Approximate per bowl |
| Protein | 28g | From chicken and Parmesan |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | Mostly from sun-dried tomatoes |
| Fat | 22g | From cream and cheese |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | Primarily from heavy cream |
| Sodium | 600mg | Can be adjusted based on broth |
| Fiber | 2g | From spinach and tomatoes |
| Calcium | 20% DV | Boosted by Parmesan cheese |
| Iron | 10% DV | Found in spinach and seasonings |
Health Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup
This soup is packed with lean protein, making it filling and satisfying. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while spinach adds vitamins A and C for an immune boost. The broth helps with hydration, and the creamy texture makes it a comforting, nourishing option for cold days or when you need a cozy meal.
Making It Lighter and Healthier
Want to lighten it up? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for fewer calories. Use low-sodium broth to control salt intake. If you’re cutting down on fat, try using grated Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan, as it’s naturally lower in fat. You can also increase the spinach and vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
How to Store & Reheat for Later
Proper Storage Techniques
Leftovers? No problem! Marry Me Chicken Soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just keep in mind that dairy-based soups can slightly change texture when frozen, but a good stir after reheating will bring it back to life!
Reheating Tips to Keep It Creamy
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. For a quick fix, microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the cream to separate. A final sprinkle of Parmesan before serving makes it taste freshly made!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan substitute instead of regular cheese. The result will still be creamy and flavorful while being completely dairy-free.
How do I thicken or thin Marry Me Chicken Soup?
To thicken, simmer longer to reduce the broth, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch plus 2 tablespoons water). To thin it out, simply stir in extra broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken Soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it a day or two ahead, as the flavors deepen over time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or milk to freshen it up before serving.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes, but with a small caveat, dairy can separate when frozen. To prevent this, freeze the soup before adding the cream and stir it in fresh after reheating. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What pasta works best in Marry Me Chicken Soup?
If adding pasta, use short varieties like orecchiette, small shells, or ditalini that hold up well in soups. Gnocchi is another great option for a soft, pillowy texture. Cook pasta separately and add it to bowls before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
How can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Boost the nutrition by stirring in mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or shredded carrots along with the onions. Kale or chopped broccoli also work well, just add them near the end of cooking so they stay vibrant.
More Easy Soup Recipes
If you love Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll enjoy these other comforting recipes:
- Authentic Caldo de Pollo Recipe – A traditional Mexican chicken soup packed with hearty vegetables.
- Best Caldo de Res Recipe – A rich and flavorful beef soup, perfect for cozy nights.
- Mini Chicken Pot Pies Recipe – A fun, flaky twist on a classic comfort food favorite.
Enjoy your bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach loosely packed
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp butter for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1/2 cup white wine or a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot and scrape up the browned bits.
- Stir in 4 cups chicken broth along with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Then add 2 cups shredded cooked chicken and allow it to warm through.
- Add 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Fold in 2 cups fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving hot.