On a chilly evening, nothing feels quite as comforting as a bowl of soup, right? That’s why I can’t wait to share my Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe with you! This creamy, satisfying dish combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich sauce that warms not just your belly but your soul. In under an hour, you can whip up this delightful one-pot creation that’s not only perfect for busy weeknights but also a great go-to for impressing loved ones. With its quick prep and adaptable ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Are you ready to discover the magic behind this love-at-first-bite recipe?

Why Will You Love This Soup?

Comforting Warmth: This Marry Me Chicken Soup will wrap you in a cozy hug, making those chilly nights absolutely delightful.

Quick & Easy: With just one pot and about an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to impress family or guests alike.

Adaptable Ingredients: The flexibility of this recipe means you can substitute ingredients based on what you have, whether it’s using Cheesy Garlic Chicken or adding in seasonal vegetables for a personal touch.

Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, parmesan, and aromatics creates a luxurious experience that will leave you wanting more.

Hearty & Filling: With tender chicken and satisfying pasta, this soup is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, perfect alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – The main protein; thighs provide more flavor and juiciness, while breasts are leaner—use cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Italian seasoning – Adds flavor depth; mix your own using dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme if you don’t have any on hand.
Diced carrots – For sweetness and texture; can easily be replaced with frozen mixed vegetables for a speedier option.
Diced celery – Adds crunch and a flavor base; substitute with bell peppers if preferred.
Diced onions – Essential for overall flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste if desired.
Diced sundried tomatoes – Adds a tangy depth; fresh tomatoes can be substituted if you’d like a lighter touch.
Garlic cloves – Provides aromatic flavor; feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preference for garlic.
Flour – Used for thickening the soup; can be substituted with cornstarch or skipped for a gluten-free version.
Tomato paste – Optional but adds richness; omit if you prefer a cream-only soup.
Chicken broth – The soup’s foundation; adjust the quantity for your desired thickness.
Pasta (e.g., small shells) – Adds heartiness; gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles can be used for a low-carb alternative.
Heavy whipping cream – Establishes creaminess; half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work as alternatives.
Grated parmesan reggiano cheese – Enhances flavor and richness; omit for a lighter version if you wish.
Fresh spinach – Adds color and nutrition; kale or Swiss chard can replace it, depending on availability.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, along with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.

Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add 1 diced onion, 1 diced carrot, 1 diced celery stalk, ½ cup of diced sundried tomatoes, and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the onion turns translucent. The aroma of garlic and vegetables will fill your kitchen, indicating it’s time for the next step.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle in ¼ cup of flour gradually, stirring to combine it with the sautéed chicken and vegetables, aiming for a smooth mixture. If using, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and mix well for a couple of minutes. This step will help thicken your Marry Me Chicken Soup and enhance its rich flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta
Slowly whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth until everything is well combined and the mixture is bubbling. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and add 1 cup of small pasta, such as shells. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Greens
Stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the cream meld perfectly with the flavors. Continue to stir until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to ensure your Marry Me Chicken Soup is just perfect.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with grated parmesan reggiano cheese for extra richness. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This Marry Me Chicken Soup will charm everyone at your table, leaving them eager for seconds!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.

Freezer: Freeze soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave out the heavy cream; stir it in when reheating to keep it smooth and creamy.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding additional broth for consistency.

Portioning: For easy meal prep, consider freezing the Marry Me Chicken Soup in single-serving portions—perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners on demand!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the Marry Me Chicken Soup, making it uniquely yours!

Kielbasa Swap: Substitute chicken with kielbasa to introduce a smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully. It brings a heartiness that’s simply irresistible.
Seasonal Vegetables: Mix in any seasonal veggies like peas or corn for a bright burst of color and nutrition. This way, you can enjoy a new flavor with every season!
Creamy Vegan Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and replace chicken with chickpeas for a vegan-inspired soup that still delivers that comforting creaminess.
Rice Add-In: Trade the pasta for cooked rice or quinoa for a gluten-free alternative that enhances the soup’s heartiness and offers a different texture to enjoy.
Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to take your soup to another level of flavor. This will awaken your taste buds and add an exciting zing!
Garlic Lovers: For those who can’t get enough garlic, increase the amount you use and consider adding roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellower flavor that truly elevates the dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top before serving for a melty, delicious finish that adds richness to each bowl.
Herb Variations: Jazz up the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end of cooking. It brightens up the flavors and gives a fresh, vibrant note.

Feel inspired to mix and match these ideas! And if you’re looking for something alongside your soup, consider pairing it with Cheesy Garlic Chicken or a side of Chicken Noodle Soup.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup

As you ladle up this delightful creamy soup, consider these delicious sides and drinks that create a complete and heartwarming meal experience.

Crusty Bread: The perfect pairing, its crunchy exterior and soft inside are ideal for soaking up every last drop of the creamy soup.
Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad adds a light, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic flavor bring a satisfying crunch, perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones.
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken: Elevate your meal by serving a crispy, cheesy chicken alongside the soup for an irresistible flavor combination.
Herbed Quinoa: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs can serve as a nutritious side dish, providing a wholesome texture alongside the creamy soup.
Sautéed Greens: Consider wilted spinach or garlic sautéed kale; they add vibrant color, essential nutrients, and a hint of bitterness that complements the savory notes.
Chardonnay: Pair your meal with a chilled glass of Chardonnay; its crispness and subtle fruit notes enhance the creamy richness of the soup wonderfully.
Chocolate Mousse: End your dinner on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse that offers indulgence without being overly heavy.

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Cook Pasta Separately: Avoid mushy pasta by cooking it separately and adding it to the soup just before serving for the perfect texture.
Storage Strategy: If you plan to store leftovers, skip the heavy cream during the initial cooking; stir it in while reheating to maintain creamy consistency.
Watch the Chicken: If using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, add it toward the end of cooking to prevent it from overcooking and drying out.
Herb Customization: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning to your taste; fresh herbs can enhance the Marry Me Chicken Soup’s natural flavors.
Vegetable Options: Don’t hesitate to swap in seasonal vegetables! Frozen mixed vegetables work in a pinch and save time while adding variety to every bowl.

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Chicken Soup preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can sauté the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Just keep the cream and pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply heat the sautéed mixture in a large pot, add the broth, and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cream and pasta, allowing it to cook until heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, love-at-first-bite meal with just a touch of prep!

Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken for your Marry Me Chicken Soup, look for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. Thighs offer more flavor and moisture, while breasts are leaner. Check for a bright pink color with no dark spots, and ensure the meat feels firm to the touch.

How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture and prevent it from thickening too much.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To preserve the texture, omit the heavy cream during the initial cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, stirring in the cream right before serving.

What if my pasta becomes mushy during cooking?
To prevent mushy pasta, I suggest cooking it separately and adding it to the soup just before serving. This way, you can control the pasta’s texture and ensure it remains al dente.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting pasta with gluten-free alternatives or zucchini noodles. For dairy-free options, use full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream, and omit the cheese. Always check labels for potential allergens!

Can I customize the vegetables in this soup?
Very much so! Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Frozen mixed vegetables can be a convenient option if you’re short on time. You can even mix in chopped kale or peas for added nutrition—a great way to make it your own!