Name: This Marry Me Chicken Soup Is a Bowlful of Pure Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs (drained); 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar; 1.5 cups chopped yellow onion; 4 cloves medium garlic (minced (about 4 teaspoons)); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 32-ounce packages chicken broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish (optional)); 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1.5 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper (plus more for garnish); 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta; 3 cups fresh baby spinach (packed and roughly chopped); 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed, at room temperature); 1.5 ounces Parmesan cheese (finely shredded, plus more for garnish)

Introduction to This Marry Me Chicken Soup

A love letter in a bowl

Imagine coming home after a long day, the kind that leaves you craving warmth and comfort. That's where this marry me chicken soup steps in—it's not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience served up in a bowl. Packed with rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and creamy goodness, every spoonful feels like a hug for your soul.

Have you ever had a dish that was so good it prompted a spontaneous proposal? That's the spirit behind this delightful recipe. Originating from a playful notion around a beloved dinner, marry me chicken symbolizes a promise of romance and devotion. Your loved ones won’t just savor the flavors; they’ll fall in love with you all over again.

This soup is loaded with tender chicken, vibrant greens, and delightful spices—perfect for a cozy night in or an impressively casual gathering with friends. Plus, it’s made in one pot, a totally win in my book!

If you're eager to impress and nourish at the same time, look no further. So grab your favorite spoon, and let’s dive into this love-filled recipe that’s sure to bring everyone to the table. For more comforting recipes, check out The Kitchn and Serious Eats. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Creating this Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only about the love you pour into it but also about the delightful ingredients that come together to make a heartwarming meal. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious soup to life:

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup drained, julienne-cut, packed in herbed oil—the secret to adding a burst of flavor.
Aromatic Base: 1 tablespoon of oil harvested from the sun-dried tomatoes, along with 1 ½ cups of chopped yellow onion and 4 minced garlic cloves.
Richness and Comfort: 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, and 8 ounces of cream cheese add creaminess and depth.
Bounty from the Broth: 2 (32-ounce) packages of chicken broth form the soup’s hearty foundation.
Seasonings: A balance of herbs—4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a touch of crushed red pepper for warmth.
Pasta and Greens: 8 ounces of uncooked medium shell pasta and 3 cups of fresh baby spinach provide texture and nutrition.
Protein Power: 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken—an easy choice for added warmth.

Isn’t it wonderful how simple ingredients can transform into a dish that could spark love? For more tips on ingredient selection and preparation, check out resources from Food Network and Bon Appétit. Enjoy cooking!

Preparing This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Cooking can often feel like a chore, but when you set out to make this Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’re embarking on a culinary adventure that’s nothing short of delightful. The combination of comfort and love in each spoonful truly makes this soup a dish you’ll keep coming back to. Let’s dive into the steps that will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have everything on hand. This meal features a beautiful array of flavors, and proper preparation will set you up for success. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes
1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
4 medium garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 (32-ounce) packages of chicken broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil (and more for garnish)
Various spices (including kosher salt and crushed red pepper)
8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
3 cups packed baby spinach
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

Got everything? Great! Let’s cook!

Sauté the Aromatics

Start the magic by heating that sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Add your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often. You want them soft and fragrant—there’s something so enjoyable about that sizzling sound, right?

Build the Soup Base

Now, it’s time to infuse even more flavor! Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, allowing them to cook for a couple of minutes. This step deepens the color and flavor of your soup, creating a lovely base. After this, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and don’t forget to add the basil, salt, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil; it should take around 12 minutes.

Cook the Pasta

Once your soup is bubbly and inviting, it’s time to add in the medium shell pasta. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir occasionally. You want the pasta to cook al dente, which typically takes about 12 minutes. The aroma wafting through your kitchen at this point will surely attract loved ones!

Combine and Finish the Soup

As the pasta finishes cooking, reduce the heat to low. Now it’s time for the finishing touches: add the baby spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir until everything is beautifully combined and the cheeses melt, creating that rich, creamy texture we all crave. This step usually takes about 5 minutes, and trust me, you’ll want to serve this soup up immediately for the best experience.

With each step, you’ve crafted a dish that’s bound to revive the spirit and warm the heart. For a delightful finish, garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece, and remember, sometimes a bowl of soup is all you need to feel the love!

Variations on This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup with Turkey Bacon

Switching things up with turkey bacon adds a smoky crunch to this marry me chicken soup! Simply swap out your regular chicken in the recipe with crispy turkey bacon, and let the flavor bomb explode. Not only does it enhance the savory profile, but it offers a healthier twist that doesn't compromise on taste.

Marry Me Chicken Soup with Seasonal Veggies

Elevate this marry me chicken soup by incorporating seasonal veggies! Think vibrant greens like asparagus or zucchini in spring or root veggies like carrots and sweet potatoes in fall. Adding fresh produce not only enriches the flavor but also boosts the dish's nutritional value. Plus, it’s a delightful way to change things up based on what's fresh at your local market!

For more inspiration, be sure to check out seasonal cooking tips.

Cooking Tips and Notes for This Marry Me Chicken Soup

When whipping up this Marry Me Chicken Soup, a few tips can elevate your dish from great to unforgettable.

Prep Ahead: Chopping your veggies and having everything ready to go will streamline your cooking process, making it more enjoyable and less chaotic.
Broth Quality: Using high-quality chicken broth will enhance the flavor, so opt for low-sodium versions if you're watching your salt intake—this way, you can control the seasoning to your taste.
Pasta Choice: Medium shell pasta not only holds the creamy goodness well but is also kid-friendly! If you're gluten-free, consider using a rice or quinoa-based pasta.
Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite greens or extra veggies for added nutrition and color. This Marry Me Chicken Soup is versatile!

Interested in other soups? Check out this guide on making hearty soups that warm the soul!

Serving Suggestions for This Marry Me Chicken Soup

There’s nothing quite like this marry me chicken soup to savor on a chilly evening or to impress date night guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that elevate your soup game:

Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm, crusty baguette or cheese toast for that perfect bite. The bread soaks up every creamy drop, making each spoonful even more satisfying.
Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a light garden salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch. It balances the richness of the soup nicely.
Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving. Not only does this add a burst of flavor, but it also makes your presentation pop!
Comfort in a Bowl: Consider topping it off with some turkey bacon or grilled chicken ham for added protein and texture.

For more creative ideas, check out Fox News to discover how to craft the perfect meal pairing! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Time Breakdown for This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for this Marry Me Chicken Soup takes about 20 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables, measuring spices, and organizing your workspace for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking of this delightful soup will take around 40 minutes. This allows time for sautéing, simmering, and blending all those flavors together beautifully.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need approximately 1 hour to make this comforting dish from start to finish. It’s a perfect option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a romantic night in.

Ready to indulge? Check out the full recipe above to experience the love this dish brings! For even more culinary inspiration, visit Allrecipes.

Nutritional Facts for This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Understanding the nutritional profile of this Marry Me Chicken Soup helps you appreciate its deliciousness even more! Here's a quick breakdown of what you'll be enjoying in every warm, comforting bowl:

Calories

Each serving contains around 654 calories, making this soup a hearty meal option that will satisfy your hunger.

Protein

With 33 grams of protein, this dish is packed with muscle-building nutrients, thanks to ingredients like shredded rotisserie chicken and cream cheese. It's perfect for a post-workout recovery!

Sodium

Watch your sodium intake! This soup has 2247 mg of sodium per serving, so it's ideal to enjoy occasionally, especially if you're watching your salt consumption.

For more detailed insights on maintaining a balanced diet, check out resources like the USDA's MyPlate or Healthline's Nutritional Guidelines!

This soup combines flavor with nutrition, so go ahead and make it your go-to comfort food!

FAQs about This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup to ensure every spoonful is hearty and satisfying. If you’re up for it, you can even poach your chicken breast with your favorite seasonings to make it even more flavorful.

How can I make this soup healthier?

You can easily lighten up this Marry Me Chicken Soup by using low-fat cream cheese or milk instead of heavy cream. Additionally, swapping out pasta for whole grain or chickpea pasta can increase the fiber content. Adding extra veggies, like carrots or zucchini, can boost the nutritional profile even further and make each bowl even more colorful.

What are good side dishes to serve with chicken soup?

A fresh, crunchy salad or some warm, crusty whole-grain bread pairs beautifully with this soup. You could also consider serving turkey bacon or chicken ham on the side for added protein. A light, citrusy side can enhance the flavors, tying the meal together perfectly! For more options, check out our side dish suggestions.

Conclusion on This Marry Me Chicken Soup

In just one cozy bowl of this Marry Me Chicken Soup, you'll discover a blend of flavors that comforts the soul and sparks romance. Its creamy texture, bright notes from fresh basil, and heartwarming ingredients make it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, this soup might just lead to a proposal!