Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

All the creamy, dreamy flavors of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl create a cozy meal perfect for any day. This soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for a casual family dinner or a more intimate gathering. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety broth, this dish offers warmth and comfort that feels like a hug in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and cream creates a rich, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly night at home or a dinner party, this soup fits right in.
• Comforting Ingredients: Using familiar ingredients like chicken and pasta makes it easy for everyone to enjoy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or adjust spices to match your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marry Me Chicken Soup successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Perfect for cooking soups evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cuts for onions, garlic, and other ingredients, making preparation faster and easier.

Ingredients

To create this comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs)
• 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste

For the Broth

• 32 oz or 2 packages chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat)

For the Soup Add-ins

• 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature)
• 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and garlic. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly until the tomato paste deepens in color.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, cream, basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 12 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 12 minutes while stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Make It Creamy & Delicious

Lower the heat to low. Stir in spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Keep stirring often for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt completely and everything is warmed through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side.

This Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl will surely become a favorite among friends and family!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience to savor. Serving it the right way can elevate your dining occasion and impress your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• Fresh Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with toasted garlic bread to enhance the flavors and add crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds color and enhances the flavor profile.
• Chopped Parsley: Use chopped parsley for a fresh touch that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the creamy soup.

In Individual Bowls

• Personalized Servings: Ladle into individual bowls for an elegant presentation, especially during special gatherings.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Perfecting your Marry Me Chicken Soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Consider adding more herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
• Creaminess Factor: For an even creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding pasta and chicken.
• Pasta Choice Matters: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred, altering cooking times accordingly.
• Adjust Consistency: If too thick, thin out with additional chicken broth or cream for desired consistency.
• Leftover Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld; make ahead for best results.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different toppings like crispy shallots or crushed red pepper flakes for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Marry Me Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of the soup.
2. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Warm, buttery biscuits with melted cheese add comfort and indulgence.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers complement the soup’s creamy texture and add heartiness.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a light appetizer option before diving into the soup.
7. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes create a unique twist while maintaining an Italian flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your soup is perfect.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Ignoring the sauté process can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to sauté onions and garlic until softened for a flavorful base.
• Not Using Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish the soup’s aroma and taste. Opt for fresh basil to elevate your dish.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushy shells. Add the pasta and monitor closely, cooking until it’s just tender.
• Rushing the Cream Incorporation: Adding cream cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Lower the heat before mixing it in to create a smooth texture.
• Neglecting Proper Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup fall flat. Taste and adjust salt and spices throughout the cooking process for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl special?

This soup combines creamy textures with rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, making it incredibly comforting and delicious.

Can I customize Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini or swap out proteins based on your preference.

How do I thicken Marry Me Chicken Soup?

For a thicker consistency, you can add more cream cheese or even blend some of the soup to create a creamier texture.

Is Marry Me Chicken Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow storage instructions for best results.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is truly a delightful dish that warms both body and soul. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins!