Hello fellow flavor seekers! I’m River Quinn from Aunty Spices, and I’m absolutely thrilled to share one of my family’s most beloved comfort meals: Marry Me Chicken Soup. It’s a creamy, flavorful hug in a bowl that has won the hearts (and stomachs!) of everyone who’s tasted it. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a symphony of Tuscan-inspired flavors that create a truly magical experience around the family table.
I first stumbled upon the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup while searching for a dish that would satisfy both my picky eaters and my craving for something truly flavorful. I needed a dinner solution that was easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to bring everyone together. After some experimenting with spices and a few kitchen adventures, this Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe was born.
What I love most about this Marry Me Chicken Soup is its ability to create a genuine connection through authentic flavors. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food shared with loved ones. I’ve watched how this soup transforms a regular weeknight dinner into a cozy, laughter-filled gathering. That’s the magic I want to share with you.
If you’re looking for an easy chicken soup recipe that delivers big on flavor and creates lasting memories, you’ve come to the right place. My journey to perfecting this Marry Me Chicken Soup has been filled with spice discoveries, family feedback, and a whole lot of love. I’m so excited to share my knowledge and help you create your own version of this heartwarming dish.
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and bring your family closer together. I’m excited to guide you every step of the way, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect blend of spices. Let’s get started on this flavor-filled journey!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this soul-warming Marry Me Chicken Soup. Trust me, this Marry Me Chicken Soup ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and building a flavorful base.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that signature Tuscan chicken soup aroma.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness, color, and a touch of vibrancy.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The heart of our Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This spice is a must-have in any creamy chicken soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic note that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat. My family loves a little kick in their Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use high-quality broth for the best flavor.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides a juicy, tangy base.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained: Adds intense, concentrated tomato flavor. You can find the authentic, best tasting versions of these at your nearest Italian grocer.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, luxurious texture of our Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: For garnish and a burst of freshness.
- Crusty bread, for serving: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup broth!
For the best flavor in your Marry Me Chicken Soup, I recommend sourcing your spices from Aunty Spices, of course! You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Marry Me Chicken Soup at your local farmers market or a well-stocked grocery store. This Marry Me Chicken Soup proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.
My family loves when I add a handful of spinach or kale to our Marry Me Chicken Soup for extra nutrients and a pop of green. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference!
Let’s Create This Together!
Ready to embark on this flavorful kitchen adventure? I’m so excited to walk you through each step of creating this incredible Marry Me Chicken Soup. It’s easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant. This step is crucial for building a deep, flavorful base for your Marry Me Chicken Soup.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point, just nicely seared. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the creamy chicken soup.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils. This is where the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup truly begins!
- Simmer with Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. In my kitchen, this flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup typically takes about 15 minutes to reach that perfect tenderness.
- Create the Creamy Dream: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Add Parmesan and Basil: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Your Marry Me Chicken Soup should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread. Don’t be surprised if your Marry Me Chicken Soup develops a devoted following!
Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Marry Me Chicken Soup – be patient when melting the cream cheese! Stir constantly over low heat to ensure it doesn’t clump up. This is a flavor-building tip passed down from generations in my family.
While your Marry Me Chicken Soup is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family! It’s not just about the food; it’s about the love and connection you’re sharing. This easy chicken soup recipe is more than the sum of its parts.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
Now that you’ve created this culinary masterpiece, let’s talk about how to best enjoy it. This flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many different sides and occasions.
The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Marry Me Chicken Soup appears with a side of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is also a great addition, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. This soup is also a great dish to enjoy with a side of garlic bread.
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! It’s also a wonderful dish to serve at a casual gathering with friends or a cozy family get-together.
For a fun twist, try serving this Marry Me Chicken Soup in bread bowls. It’s a unique presentation that everyone will love!
If you have any leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup (which is rare in my house!), you can transform it into a creamy pasta sauce. Simply toss it with cooked pasta and add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
During the fall and winter months, I love adding roasted butternut squash to this Marry Me Chicken Soup. It adds a touch of sweetness and warmth that’s perfect for the season. https://auntyspices.com/chicken-pot-pie-soup reminds me of a fall flavor bomb.
We have hosted many guests over the years and their reactions to my Marry Me Chicken Soup have always been overwhelmingly positive. They always ask for the recipe! I even have my own take on ‘Marry Me’ Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup | Orchids + Sweet Tea, which has become a huge hit!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you might have some questions about making this incredible Marry Me Chicken Soup, so I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you on your cooking journey.
Does this Marry Me Chicken Soup really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The combination of chicken, creamy broth, and Parmesan cheese makes this Marry Me Chicken Soup incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s a meal in itself! I sometimes add a can of cannellini beans to increase the heartiness of the dish.
What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Marry Me Chicken Soup?
No problem! Simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
How can I prepare this Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead for busy weeks?
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. I never add the heavy cream or parmesan until I am ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of cheese in this creamy chicken soup?
While Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful nutty flavor, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Is it possible to make this Marry Me Chicken Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply combine all the ingredients (except the cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Then, stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil before serving. Facebook groups such as Recipe for Marry Me Chicken Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and … even have slow cooker variations of this recipe.
Can I use different types of tomatoes in this tomato basil chicken soup?
Yes, you can! I like to use a combination of diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes for a slightly thicker consistency. You can also use fresh tomatoes if they are in season. If I only have fresh tomatoes on hand, I will often use Marry Me Chicken Soup as a flavor guide.
Can I make this Marry Me Chicken Soup dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and the heavy cream with coconut milk. Just be sure to use unsweetened coconut milk for the best flavor. You can also omit the parmesan cheese.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
I hope this Marry Me Chicken Soup becomes a cherished part of your family’s mealtime traditions. It’s a dish that truly embodies the spirit of Aunty Spices: creating authentic, flavorful meals that bring loved ones together. My inspiration to create authentic meals for loved ones is also what led me to create recipes such as https://auntyspices.com/chicken-parmesan-soup and https://auntyspices.com/chilis-chicken-enchilada-soup-recipe.
- Don’t skimp on the sun-dried tomatoes. They add an intense, concentrated flavor that’s essential to the soup.
- Bloom your spices. Cooking the spices in olive oil before adding the other ingredients helps to release their aromatic oils and create a deeper flavor.
- Be patient with the cream cheese. Stir constantly over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t clump up.
- Spicy Marry Me Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Veggie-Loaded Marry Me Chicken Soup: Add chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Lemon-Herb Marry Me Chicken Soup: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of fresh parsley for a bright, fresh flavor.
My husband prefers the spicy version, while my kids love the veggie-loaded version. Feel free to experiment and create your own signature version of this beloved soup!
I encourage you to make this Marry Me Chicken Soup your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, vegetables, and cheeses to create a dish that reflects your family’s unique taste preferences.
I hope this Marry Me Chicken Soup brings as much joy and warmth to your family as it has to mine. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with love, laughter, and the delicious aroma of authentic flavors!
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Marry Me Chicken Soup
This creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken simmers in a sun-dried tomato and parmesan broth, making it a dish your loved ones will adore.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
- Add onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Return chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth!