Looking for a soup that’s both comforting and unforgettable? Our Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is exactly what you need! This creamy, flavor-packed soup is guaranteed to win hearts and warm souls with every spoonful.
What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Ever wonder about the name “Marry Me Chicken”? It sounds like something out of a romantic comedy, right? Did someone actually get proposed to after serving this dish? Or maybe it’s just that good, you know, the kind of meal that makes you seriously consider saying “I do” to the chef! Is it the creamy broth? The tender chicken? The irresistible flavors that dance on your tongue? Who knows! But, there’s an old saying, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’ .
Maybe this soup truly holds the secret weapon to a lifetime of happiness! Whatever the truth, this soup is a culinary masterpiece, and we invite you to whip up a batch and see if it works its magic for you!
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup:
This Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience. The creamy, sun-dried tomato broth is the star, blanketing tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables in a flavor embrace. Making it at home saves you money compared to ordering out, while still indulging in a restaurant-quality dish.
And don’t forget the toppings! Fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a swirl of cream elevate each bowl to gourmet status. If you enjoy this soup, you might also like our Creamy Tomato Soup. Give them both a try and discover your new favorite comfort food!
Key Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this magical soup:
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/2 cup, oil-packed, drained
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups, low sodium
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or more, to taste)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated, plus more for garnish
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped, plus more for garnish
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Cornstarch: 1 Tablespoon
- Water: 2 tablespoons, for slurry
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup:
Get ready for a bowl of comfort! What sets this soup apart is its simplicity and rich flavor. Within minutes, you can have a pot of creamy, heartwarming “Marry Me Chicken Soup” simmering on your stovetop.
The richness of the sun-dried tomatoes combined with cream creates a velvety texture that is both comforting and satisfying. Preparation time is just around 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious and fulfilling meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the pot and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Searing the chicken adds a depth of flavor that’s crucial to the soup’s richness.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, allowing their flavor to infuse the oil. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the soup. Stir to incorporate. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
- Return Chicken and Finish: Return the seared chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Heat through gently, making sure not to boil. Boiling the cream can cause it to curdle.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup With:
Elevate your meal by pairing this soup with the right accompaniments. Crusty bread, such as ciabatta or sourdough, is perfect for dunking into the creamy broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic knots. For a drink, a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or a light beer can enhance the flavors of the soup.
Top Tips for Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Soup:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in hot water for 15 minutes before using.
- Chicken Quality: Using high-quality chicken breast will result in a more flavorful and tender soup. Thighs can be used, too, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking to lighten the soup, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for the heavy cream, although it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms, for added nutrition and flavor.
- Avoid Boiling: It’s crucial to avoid boiling the soup once the cream has been added. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Slow, gentle simmering is key!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: While creamy soups don’t always freeze perfectly, this soup can be frozen. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be aware that the texture of the cream may change slightly upon thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat the refrigerated soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as above. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts:
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe, it’s an experience! It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones, impress a date, or simply indulge in a cozy night in. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to fall in love with this irresistible soup!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Brown the chicken as instructed, then add all ingredients (except cream and basil) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and basil before serving.
Q: Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
A: While you can, it will significantly change the flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated sweetness and depth that canned tomatoes simply can’t replicate. If you must substitute, use a high-quality brand of diced tomatoes and consider adding a pinch of sugar to enhance the sweetness.
Q: My soup is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: Simply add more chicken broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: What other toppings would be good with this soup?
A: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a drizzle of pesto would all be delicious additions!