Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and a creamy texture into one delightful dish. This hearty soup is not only packed with protein but also offers a burst of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and herbs that make it irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or serving a family meal, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This soup requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory taste.
• Protein-Packed: With 41 grams of protein per serving, it’s a nutritious choice for anyone seeking a hearty meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free ingredients, this soup caters to various dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Marry Me Chicken Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure you enjoy every moment in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup ingredients thoroughly without spilling over.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks or 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
• 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small-shaped pasta)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 handfuls baby spinach

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Pot

Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the carrots, onion, and garlic to the pot. Sauté them for about 3 minutes while stirring occasionally until they become fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté for an additional 3 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend all flavors together.

Step 6: Add Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Stir well, cover it up again, and simmer for another 10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Incorporate Cream & Spinach

Stir in heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cover again; turn off the heat and let sit for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with parsley or basil before serving hot! Enjoy this comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup right away.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance the meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your soup and impress your guests.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette or Sourdough: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy soup. The texture complements the richness beautifully.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds vibrant color and freshness to each bowl, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar or Garden Salad: A light salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Add a Side of Cheese

• Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy treats can be crumbled over the soup for an extra cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the flavors of Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also provides an excellent way to enjoy every last drop!

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To make your Marry Me Chicken Soup truly unforgettable, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried or frozen options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Add pasta just right before serving. This prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy while allowing it to absorb some of the rich broth.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit after cooking helps all flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try using rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quick variation on this recipe while maintaining its delicious essence.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving Marry Me Chicken Soup alongside complementary dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great side dishes that pair well with this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor contrasts nicely with the creamy soup, making it an irresistible pairing.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light and refreshing balance to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition, enhancing the overall healthiness of your dinner.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad is not only nutritious but also adds a nice texture when enjoyed with the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese provide a comforting addition that complements the warmth of the soup perfectly.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing vegetables and chicken first enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this part; it’s essential for a rich broth.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland soup. Always taste your soup as you go and adjust the salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Add it closer to the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Using low-quality broth: A good-quality chicken broth makes a huge difference in flavor. Opt for low-sodium options to control salt levels.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing your soup to sit after cooking helps flavors meld together. Don’t skip this resting period!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Freeze the soup in an airtight container, leaving space for expansion.
• It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot and heat over low flame, stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy chicken soup featuring sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with protein.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely for a lower-carb option while still enjoying all the delicious flavors.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Chicken Soup?

The total time for preparing this comforting soup is about 40 minutes, including prep, cook, and resting times.

Can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms based on your preference. You can also adjust spices to suit your taste.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just rich in flavor but also versatile enough for any dinner table. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or enjoy it just as it is. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s sure to win hearts!

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