Marry Me Chicken Soup

Sharing is caring!

If soup could speak, this one would whisper, “You need me in your life.” Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, gather around the table, and share something truly special with the people you love.

It’s hearty yet delicate, creamy yet light, and packed with Tuscan-inspired flavors that feel like a warm embrace.

Whether it’s a chilly evening, a busy weeknight, or a Sunday dinner with family, this recipe has a way of making everyone feel at home. Let me walk you through the magic of creating this irresistible dish, one step at a time.

The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Soup

I remember the first time I served this soup—it was a hectic weekday, and my youngest had declared it “fancy enough for a restaurant” while dunking his bread into the creamy broth. That’s the magic of this dish: it’s simple to make, yet it carries a sense of occasion.

The name, Marry Me Chicken, suggests a soup so good it could inspire a proposal, but I like to think of it as the kind of meal that rekindles connections—whether it’s with your family, your friends, or just your love for cooking.

Key Ingredients

Each ingredient plays an essential role in this recipe, so let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup sing:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs bring richness and flavor, while chicken breasts provide a lighter option. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully and adds a roasted depth.
• Onions, Carrots, and Celery: This classic mirepoix builds a flavorful foundation, creating the warm and savory notes that carry through the dish.
• Garlic: Essential for a touch of warmth and depth, freshly minced garlic is a must in this recipe.
• Sundried Tomatoes: These little gems bring a tangy-sweet brightness that complements the creamy broth. They’re the secret to that “what is that flavor?” moment.
• Spinach: Adding fresh spinach at the end gives the soup a vibrant pop of color and a hint of earthiness.
• Heavy Cream: For that silky, luxurious texture, heavy cream is a star player. If you need a substitute, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk will work, but the soup won’t be as rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the broth, adding a nutty, savory depth that ties everything together.
• Small Pasta or Potatoes: Ditalini, shells, or elbow pasta are perfect for soaking up the flavors. If you prefer potatoes, they add a hearty, rustic charm.
• Italian Seasoning: A comforting blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that brings Tuscan vibes to every spoonful.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Build a Flavorful Base

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden on all sides, then remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add your chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the sundried tomatoes and let them mingle with the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.

Kitchen Tip: If you’re short on time, pre-chopped mirepoix from the store is a lifesaver.

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

Sprinkle flour evenly over the vegetables and stir until it’s fully incorporated. This step helps thicken the soup later. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—those bits are pure flavor gold.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then add the pasta (or diced potatoes if using) along with the remaining Italian seasoning. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the soup cook until the pasta is al dente or the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom, especially if you’re using a Dutch oven.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Touch

Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, just long enough for the spinach to wilt and the cheese to melt into the broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Sarah’s Note: If the soup thickens too much for your liking, simply add a splash of extra broth to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal on its own, but a few accompaniments can take it to the next level:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh side dish with a zippy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brussels sprouts or green beans pair wonderfully.

Storing and Reheating

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: If freezing, leave out the heavy cream and pasta until reheating to prevent texture changes. Add them after thawing and reheating the soup.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Pro Tip: Pasta can get mushy when stored in soup. To avoid this, cook it separately and add it to each bowl just before serving.

Customization and Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give the soup a little kick.
• Swap Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can replace spinach for a heartier, more rustic touch.
• Try Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey or even Italian sausage for a twist.

A Dish That Brings People Together

Every time I serve this soup, it becomes the centerpiece of a wonderful memory. Whether it’s my kids fighting over the last piece of bread to dunk in the broth or my husband declaring, “We should make this every week,” Marry Me Chicken Soup always leaves a lasting impression.

I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Tuscan-inspired magic to your kitchen and becomes a regular guest at your table. If you try it, I’d love to hear about your experience—leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations.

Happy cooking,
Sarah 💕

Print