why make this recipe
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s not just a soup; it’s a heartwarming blend of flavors that can make any meal special. The creamy texture paired with tender chicken and fresh vegetables makes it a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it great for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
how to make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1-1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onions
- ¼ cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½-1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
- 2 ½-3 cups fresh spinach
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Sauté until they are softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken, pasta, heavy cream, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Simmer until the pasta is tender and the soup is heated through.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
how to serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup hot in bowls. You can sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side. This soup can be the star of your dinner table, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
how to store Marry Me Chicken Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat on the stovetop.
tips to make Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by using more or less chicken broth depending on your preference.
- For a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the soup while cooking.
- You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, just add it toward the end of cooking to heat through.
variation
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. Additionally, you can use whole grain pasta or a gluten-free pasta option to suit dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just reheat before serving. The flavors may even improve after a day in the fridge!
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What kind of pasta works best for this soup?
Any small pasta works well, but mini shells, or elbow macaroni are great choices as they hold the broth nicely.
Can I add other proteins?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with cooked turkey, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children. Adjust the seasoning to suit their tastes.