If there’s one dish that can win over hearts and stomachs alike, it’s Marry Me Chicken Soup. Creamy, savory, and packed with tender chicken, this soup is a spin-off of the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe but made even cozier. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week, this creamy chicken soup is pure comfort in a bowl.
Whether you’re craving a rich and delicious soup recipe, searching for a low-carb breakfast option, or needing a warm, filling meal, this soup ticks all the boxes. Bursting with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of spice, it’s guaranteed to make everyone at the table swoon. Let’s dive into this must-try savory soup that’s both indulgent and nourishing.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Creamy and Delicious: This soup has a luxurious, creamy texture that’s balanced by the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of garlic.
- Low-Carb Friendly: It’s a great breakfast low-carb option or dinner for those looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This soup takes all the flavors of a cozy stew and wraps them in a creamy, soul-warming package.
- Easy to Make: With options for stovetop or crockpot preparation, it’s as versatile as it is simple to cook.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
The magic of this comfort soup lies in its simple but flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this swoon-worthy dish:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts (or thighs): Boneless, skinless chicken works best.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A key flavor enhancer for savory soups.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The foundation of the soup’s flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that creamy, indulgent texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and depth to the broth.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Tangy and slightly sweet, these are essential for the signature Marry Me Chicken flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds a fresh, nutritious touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Additions:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry): To thicken the soup if needed.
- Bacon crumbles or crispy prosciutto: For added texture and flavor.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
This chicken soup recipe can be made on the stovetop or in a crockpot, depending on your schedule and cooking preferences. Here’s how to create this delicious dish step by step:
Stovetop Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (this adds flavor!).
- Simmer:
- Add the seared chicken back to the pot, along with the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Add the Creamy Goodness:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or bacon crumbles.
Crockpot Instructions:
- Layer Ingredients:
- Add the chicken, onion, garlic, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the crockpot.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Finish with Cream:
- Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low until everything is heated through and creamy.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy with your favorite crusty bread or a light side salad.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup
This soup and stew combo is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with the right side dishes takes the meal to the next level:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy broth.
- Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles: A low-carb option to complement the soup.
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a flavorful side.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly, so opt for fresh Parmesan for the creamiest results.
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Add the spinach just before serving to keep its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the red pepper flakes. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Variations
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, keto option.
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked bacon or diced sausage for an even heartier soup.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why Marry Me Chicken Soup Is a Must-Try
This creamy chicken soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of rich flavors, hearty chicken, and velvety broth makes it the ultimate comfort soup for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, meal prepping for the week, or impressing your loved ones, this delicious soup recipe is sure to win hearts.
