This Marry Me Chicken Soup is rich and creamy, packed with tender chicken, veggies, and a burst of flavor! It’s perfect for cozy nights and sure to warm your heart.
With a name like that, how can you resist? I love serving it with crusty bread for a little extra fun. Trust me, you’ll be asking for seconds, just like I do! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the soup. You can easily swap it with vegetable or avocado oil if needed. I’ve even used butter for a different flavor sensation!
Onion: A small onion brings a great base flavor. If you’re out of onions, shallots or leeks can work in a pinch. Onions bring sweetness, which I love!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here! For convenience, garlic powder can be a substitute, but fresh garlic gives a more vibrant taste. I personally can’t get enough garlic!
Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium broth for more control over salt levels. If you prefer plant-based options, vegetable broth can replace it effectively.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to, but thighs can add richer flavor. Rotisserie chicken would save time; just add it later in the cooking process.
Pasta: Small shapes like ditalini or elbow work best. You could use gluten-free pasta if needed, or even skip it for a lower-carb option.
Heavy Cream: It gives a lovely creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut milk can work! For dairy-free, this is an excellent option.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
This step is super important to make sure your chicken is juicy. Cooking chicken breasts in soup helps retain moisture. Follow these steps for success:
- After bringing the broth to a simmer, add the chicken and allow it to cook through. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding, as it keeps more juices inside!
Following these tips will ensure deliciously tender chicken for your flavorful soup!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook, making for a quick and comforting meal. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will create a wonderful base for your soup!
2. Flavor It Up:
Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes to the pot. Sauté them together for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should smell fantastic right about now!
3. Combine the Base:
Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth along with the can of diced tomatoes (juice included) into the pot. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. It’s coming together beautifully!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway to ensure even cooking!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup. It’ll add great texture and flavor!
6. Add the Pasta:
Now, stir in your chosen small pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
7. Creamy Touch:
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and the 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is warm and creamy.
8. Final Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Adjusting these is key to your perfect flavor!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish it with chopped fresh parsley. This delightful bowl of goodness is ready for you to enjoy with some crusty bread or a side of your choice!
This creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite at your table—happy cooking!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply shred it and add it to the soup when you stir in the pasta. This can save you time and still bring great flavor to your dish!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt or a splash of non-dairy milk for a healthier option, but be cautious as they can change the consistency a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swapping the chicken for your favorite protein, like chickpeas or tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
