Introduction to This Marry Me Chicken Soup
When you think of comfort food, nothing quite warms the heart like a soothing bowl of soup. This Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a dish; it's a culinary experience designed to win hearts! Whipping up this creamy, flavorful delight is an easy way to impress your nearest and dearest, and it has a reputation for making someone want to pop the big question! Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a cozy night in, this soup brings an air of romance and comfort that everyone craves.
Why “Marry Me” Chicken Soup is a Game Changer?
So, what makes this soup a true game changer? It marries the rich, bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs with the creaminess of heavy cream and cheese. Packed with nutritious baby spinach and tender chicken, it’s not only delicious but also quite filling. Plus, the whole process takes only about an hour, making it perfect for busy young professionals. Imagine arriving home after a long day and while you unwind, your kitchen fills with the tantalizing scents of garlic and basil! Who wouldn't fall in love with that?
This dish is also an excellent opportunity to practice using fresh ingredients and honing your cooking skills, making it a worthy addition to your recipe collection. For even more inspiration, check out the food network's guide to cooking soup. You'll be thrilled to add this delightful recipe to your rotation!
Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creating This Marry Me Chicken Soup isn't just about following a recipe; it's about love infused in every ingredient! Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this comforting bowl of pure joy.
Essential Ingredients
- ½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 (32-ounce) packages chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (add more for heat if desired)
- 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
- 3 cups packed fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 ½ ounces finely shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
Optional Garnishes
To elevate your soup, consider these optional garnishes:
- Extra fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch
- Parmesan cheese for a savory sprinkle
- A dash of crushed red pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat
These simple additions can make all the difference, turning your soup into a masterpiece that truly expresses love. Looking for more tips on perfecting your creamy soups? Check out Serious Eats for expert insights! Happy cooking!
Preparing This Marry Me Chicken Soup
When you’re ready to whip up This Marry Me Chicken Soup, a little preparation goes a long way to ensure a delicious final product. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy nights in or impressing that special someone. Let’s dive right into the steps that will make your cooking experience enjoyable and the results absolutely mouthwatering.
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to collect all the necessary ingredients. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll need:
- ½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 (32-ounce) packages of chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
- 3 cups packed roughly chopped fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese
Having everything prepped helps keep the rhythm going, so consider chopping your onion and garlic right after you gather the ingredients.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat until it shimmers. This is where the magic begins! Add your chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring often for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll want them softened and fragrant, creating an inviting aroma in your kitchen.
Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Now it’s time to deepen those flavors. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes and the tomato paste. Keep stirring as they cook for an extra 2 minutes, making sure the paste takes on a deeper red color. This step is where you can really start to feel that comforting essence of the soup developing.
Combine the Broth and Cream
Next, pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream. Add in the chopped basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally—about 12 minutes should do the trick!
Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Carefully add the uncooked shell pasta. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—this will take about 12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
Stir in the Greens and Chicken
Once the pasta is just right, reduce the heat to low and add your baby spinach and shredded rotisserie chicken. Also, add in the cubed cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through—this should take around 5 minutes.
Finish with Cream Cheese and Parmesan
For that finishing touch, garnish your soup with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and if you like it spicy, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. Serve immediately, and get ready for the compliments and “Wow, this is amazing!” coming your way. You’ve just made a bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup, sure to warm hearts and bellies alike!
If you want more tips on perfecting your cooking techniques, feel free to explore culinary guides like Bon Appétit for inspiration. Happy cooking!
Variations on This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Delight
Elevate this Marry Me Chicken Soup to new heights with a creamy tomato basil twist. Simply swap half of the chicken broth for crushed tomatoes, and add a splash of balsamic vinegar to deepen the flavor. You’ll also want to increase the fresh basil—think about adding a cup for an herbaceous explosion. This variation is perfect for when you're craving a rich, comforting bowl of soup with a hint of sweetness.
For even more flavor, you might consider topping it off with a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella just before serving.
Healthy Spinach and Quinoa Twist
Looking for a lighter yet equally love-worthy option? Try a healthy spinach and quinoa twist! Replace the shell pasta with quinoa to give a nutty flavor and extra protein boost. Quinoa is a fantastic substitute that not only complements the Marry Me Chicken Soup but also amps up the nutritional benefits. Feel free to toss in additional veggies like zucchini or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Not only will this variation warm your heart, but it's also perfect for meal prep, keeping you nourished throughout the week.
These variations not only diversify the flavors but also allow you to accommodate dietary preferences while keeping the essence of this Marry Me Chicken Soup intact. Enjoy experimenting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Best Practices for Creamy Soups
To ensure your This Marry Me Chicken Soup is irresistibly creamy, always add heavy cream at a low temperature. If you boil it, the cream might curdle, and nobody wants that! Also, stir in the cream cheese gradually; this allows it to blend smoothly with the broth. For an extra silky texture, consider using an immersion blender to mix the soup briefly before serving.
Adjusting Spice Levels to Taste
Spice is subjective! If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less crushed red pepper—you can always add more as you taste. For a milder flavor, feel free to substitute the red pepper with smoked paprika for a smokier profile without heat. Just remember, it’s easier to add spice than to take it away!
Serving Suggestions for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Perfect Pairings with Bread
Nothing complements This Marry Me Chicken Soup better than a warm, crusty bread. Consider serving it with a fresh baguette or a slice of garlic bread for a delightful crunch. If you're a fan of something heartier, homemade focaccia or an artisan boule can elevate your soup experience. Don’t forget to dip that bread into the creamy goodness of the soup; it’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Creative Garnishing Ideas
Transform your soup into a gourmet delight with some creative garnishing. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. A light dusting of finely shredded Parmesan adds a salty richness, while extra crushed red pepper offers a spicy kick for those who like it hot. For a final touch, consider a light drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors even further. These simple additions can make This Marry Me Chicken Soup feel like it came straight from a five-star restaurant!
Time Breakdown for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
When you're ready to whip up This Marry Me Chicken Soup, here's what to expect in terms of timing:
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 20 minutes. This is your chance to enjoy the scents of freshly chopped veggies and sun-dried tomatoes as you prep!
Cooking Time
Once you're set, cooking will take about 40 minutes. During this time, the rich flavors will meld together to create a soup worth falling in love with.
Total Time
In just 1 hour, you'll have a nourishing bowl of pure love on the table. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests.
If you're looking for more delicious chicken recipes, check out Bon Appétit for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Calories
Enjoy a satisfying bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup with just 654 calories. The balance of cream, chicken, and noodles makes it a hearty option for a cozy dinner without the guilt.
Protein
Packed with 33 grams of protein, this soup is not just delicious but also a great way to fuel your day! The rotisserie chicken and cream cheese contribute to a filling meal.
Sodium
With 2247 milligrams of sodium, you might want to adjust the salt to suit your taste preference. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option while keeping the flavor intact.
This soup is a great choice for a nourishing dinner. For more information on the health benefits of chicken and nutritious soup recipes, check out Healthline and Nutrition.gov.
FAQs about This Marry Me Chicken Soup
What makes this soup so special?
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a true heart-warmer, blending creamy goodness with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. The creamy texture comes from a delightful mix of heavy cream and cream cheese, providing a luxurious feel in every bite. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing a special someone, hence the name! Curious about the love that inspired this dish? Learn more about the backstory here.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the shredded rotisserie chicken with a hearty mix of vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas. This way, you capture the essence of This Marry Me Chicken Soup without the meat, keeping it satisfying and flavorful.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for quick weeknight meals. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to maintain that creamy consistency. Enjoy your bowlful of love again!
Conclusion on This Marry Me Chicken Soup
In just one cozy bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll discover a comforting blend of flavors that promises to make any meal feel special. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this soup delivers love in every spoonful. Try it tonight; your taste buds will thank you!
This Marry Me Chicken Soup Is a Bowlful of Pure Love
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs
- 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- 1.5 cups chopped yellow onion
- 4 medium cloves garlic, minced about 4 teaspoons
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 32-ounce packages chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil plus more for garnish (optional)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1.5 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper plus more for garnish
- 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
- 3 cups packed roughly chopped fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed at room temperature
- 1.5 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely shredded plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large Dutch oven over medium until shimmering. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring often, until softened, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes; cook, stirring constantly, until tomato paste is slightly deeper red in color, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in broth, cream, basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper; bring to a boil over medium, stirring occasionally, about 12 minutes.
- Add pasta and reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente, about 12 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, and add spinach, chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan; cook, stirring often, until cream cheese and Parmesan are melted and chicken is heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan, basil, and crushed red pepper. Serve immediately.
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