Marry Me Chicken Soup

Introduction

Have you ever heard of Marry Me Chicken? It’s this creamy, dreamy dish that’s said to be so delicious it might just win you a marriage proposal. But what if we took that idea and made it into a cozy, comforting soup? Marry Me Chicken Soup brings all the creamy richness of the original dish into a bowl, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal after a long day.

This soup has everything I love in a dish: tender, juicy chicken, a silky cream base, sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of brightness, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I first made this on a chilly fall evening, just as the leaves were starting to turn, and it instantly became one of our family favorites. I’m excited to share it with you because it’s that kind of meal that brings people together, keeps everyone coming back for more, and just might make you fall in love with it at first bite.

Grab your ingredients, pull on your comfiest sweater, and let’s make a soup that’s bound to impress everyone at the table – whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special someone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup has minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients.
• Rich and Creamy: The blend of cream and chicken broth makes the base silky and indulgent.
• Loaded with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs give it a unique depth.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love this soup – it’s like a hug in a bowl.

Imagine a creamy, fragrant broth that’s both savory and slightly sweet, thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes. Every spoonful is a mix of tender chicken pieces, earthy herbs, and a hint of cream that makes it feel extra special. The soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 380

Ingredients

1. 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
2. 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Adds richness and keeps the meat tender.
3. 1 small onion, finely chopped – Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential savory depth.
5. 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced – Adds tanginess and a bit of sweetness.
6. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and rosemary.
7. 4 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup.
8. 1 cup heavy cream – For a creamy, luxurious texture.
9. 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a bit of heat.
10. Salt and pepper – To taste.
11. Fresh basil leaves, chopped – For garnish and extra flavor.
12. Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds umami and enhances the creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Sprinkle them with a bit of salt and pepper to season.
• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken:

• Add the chicken thighs to the pot. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage.
• Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you work on the base of the soup.

Sauté the Aromatics:

• In the same pot, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Italian Seasoning:

• Toss the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning into the pot. Let them cook for a few minutes, allowing their flavors to bloom. The tomatoes will soften slightly and infuse the soup with a delicious tang.

Pour in the Chicken Broth:

• Add the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are packed with flavor!

Return the Chicken:

• Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, allowing them to simmer in the broth. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Shred the Chicken:

• Remove the cooked chicken thighs and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, giving it a stir to combine with the broth.

Add the Cream and Red Pepper Flakes:

• Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. This will create a beautiful creamy base that’s both rich and light. If you like a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes now.

Season with Salt and Pepper:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little more salt or pepper may bring out the flavors even more.

Let it Simmer:

• Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Serve and Garnish:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, with some crusty bread on the side.

Optional Tip: For extra creaminess, you can blend half of the soup and mix it back in, or add a bit more cream to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve

• With Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
• As a Romantic Dinner: Light a few candles and serve in large bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.

Additional Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: They stay tender and juicy, unlike chicken breast, which can dry out.
2. Slice the Sun-Dried Tomatoes Thinly: This ensures they mix well into each bite without overwhelming.
3. Keep an Eye on the Cream: Pour it in slowly to avoid curdling. You want a smooth, creamy soup!
4. Simmer, Don’t Boil: Boiling can break the cream, so let it simmer gently.
5. Adjust Seasoning as Needed: As the soup cooks, you may need to add a pinch more salt or pepper to bring out the flavors.

Recipe Variations

• Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Add Spinach or Kale: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
• Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Variations: Substitute basil with parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts would be a perfect complement.
• For Kids: Serve with soft dinner rolls or over egg noodles for a family-friendly twist.
• For a Cozy Brunch: Serve in mugs with a side of savory scones.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream to maintain consistency.

Special Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even cooking.
• Immersion Blender (Optional): For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup.
• Ladle: Makes it easy to serve!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute with cherry tomatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels of the ingredients, especially the chicken broth, to avoid hidden gluten.

How do I adjust the thickness?
For a thicker soup, add a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water. For a thinner consistency, add extra broth.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a juicier texture, chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Cut them into chunks and simmer until tender.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Coconut milk gives the soup a slightly different flavor, adding a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sun-dried tomatoes.

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Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that warms the heart and soul. This creamy, flavorful bowl has everything: the richness of a hearty chicken soup, the aromatic warmth of herbs and garlic, and the unique touch of sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re sharing it with family, making it for someone special, or just treating yourself, this soup promises to make every meal memorable.

Cooking a dish like this reminds us of the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. The joy of cooking this soup, from the moment the onions hit the olive oil to that first, satisfying sip, is something worth savoring. Don’t be surprised if this dish finds its way into your weekly rotation—it’s just that good!

So next time you’re in the mood for something special, reach for this recipe. It’s bound to bring warmth, smiles, and maybe even a few love-struck sighs to your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful and remember: the best meals are the ones shared with the ones you love!