Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl Recipe

If you’re searching for a heartwarming meal that feels like a warm embrace after a long day, look no further than the irresistible Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl. This creamy, flavor-packed soup combines tender shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious blend of cheeses and herbs, all coming together in a comforting, cozy broth that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. It’s an exquisite dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to leave you craving seconds — truly the perfect way to spoil yourself or impress loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, working in harmony to create a soup that’s rich in flavor, luxuriously creamy in texture, and visually inviting with vibrant greens and reds. From the tangy sun-dried tomatoes to the tender shredded chicken and aromatic herbs, every component plays a crucial role in making this soup unforgettable.

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs): Adds vibrant color and a tangy depth of flavor that elevates the broth.
• 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar: Infuses the soup base with a subtle, herby tomato essence.
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion: Provides sweetness and body when sautéed, building the soup’s foundation.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and aromatic depth to every spoonful.
• 3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates savory tomato flavor and gives the broth a beautiful richness.
• 32 oz or 2 packages chicken broth: The comforting liquid base that ties the soup together.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Delivers the signature creamy, velvety texture this soup is known for.
• 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish): Brightens the dish with herbal freshness.
• 2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
• 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning: Adds a classic Medley of flavors that pairs beautifully with chicken and tomato.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky notes without overwhelming the palate.
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat): Provides just the right touch of warmth and spice.
• 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta: Holds onto the creamy broth and adds satisfying bite.
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped: Brings a fresh, leafy element that brightens both the taste and appearance.
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender and juicy protein that makes this soup hearty and fulfilling.
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature): Melts beautifully to create that signature richness and silkiness.
• 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish): Introduces a nutty, sharp tang that rounds out every spoonful.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics until they’re softened and release their fragrant sweetness, about 3 to 4 minutes. This is the foundational flavor base that sets the tone for the entire soup.

Step 2: Build the Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This step deepens the tomato flavors and gives the broth a rich, luscious color. Trust me, that deep hue is as inviting as it gets, almost like a culinary promise of comfort ahead.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the fresh basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring this mixture gently to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 12 minutes so all those layers of flavor can mingle beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the medium shell pasta to the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the pasta is perfectly tender but still retains a little bite. The pasta shells will soak up some of the creamy broth, giving the soup a wonderfully hearty texture.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Delicious

Lower the heat to low, then stir in the chopped spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cream cheese, and finely shredded Parmesan. Keep stirring gently for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt completely, and the chicken is warmed through. This final method is what transforms the soup into a velvety, cheesy dream.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle this scrumptious soup into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a meal that feels like the ultimate indulgence.

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

Garnishes

To truly wow your taste buds and elevate the presentation, add freshly grated Parmesan and a few sprigs of fresh basil on top. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a gentle kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. These little touches make every spoonful even more delightful.

Side Dishes

Because this soup is rich and filling, pairing it with lighter side dishes is ideal. Think crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides complement the soup without overwhelming your palate, creating a perfect balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party or a comforting family meal, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a bit of flair, add toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. Presentation can be both beautiful and inviting, truly making the soup feel like a special treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors develop wonderfully overnight, making the soup even more delicious the next day. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Though the soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften upon freezing, so freeze if you plan to consume within 1 month for best results. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to maintain a creamy consistency and prevent the soup from sticking or scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it back up and revive that comforting texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this soup?

Absolutely! While medium shell pasta is perfect for holding the broth, you can swap it with other shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even small rotini. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure pasta is al dente.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese and Parmesan substitutes. The soup will still be creamy and delicious, though the flavor profile will shift slightly, so adjust seasonings to taste.

Can I prepare the soup without shredded chicken?

If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. To keep that protein element, consider adding cooked beans or lentils instead.

How spicy is the Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl?

The crushed red pepper adds a gentle warmth that can easily be adjusted. If you like things mild, feel free to reduce or omit the pepper flakes. If you enjoy more heat, add a pinch more or include a dash of hot sauce when serving.

What makes this soup called “Marry Me” Chicken Soup?

The name comes from how richly flavorful and comforting this dish is — it’s often described as so irresistible and heartwarming that you’ll want to share it forever. It’s like a culinary proposal, promising love and warmth with every spoonful.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the secret to this soul-soothing and irresistibly creamy recipe, there’s no reason to wait. Dive into making your own batch of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl and wrap yourself or anyone you love in a cozy, delicious embrace. Trust me, once you taste it, this soup will quickly become your new favorite comfort food ritual.

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