Marry Me Chicken Soup

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With its light yet creamy broth filled with sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic Italian herbs, and a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs infuses the soup with vibrant flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Comforting and Creamy: The rich creaminess adds comfort, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
• Packed with Goodness: Loaded with nutrients from spinach and chicken, this soup satisfies both hunger and health needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring your soup cooks perfectly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pots while incorporating all ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in measuring helps achieve the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

This marry me chicken soup recipe is packed with goodness and has a light yet creamy broth. There’s plenty of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and parmesan!

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For Flavor

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (double concentrated)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Liquid & Pasta

• 1/2 cup dry white grape juice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1.5 cups uncooked rotini or fusilli pasta

For Creaminess & Toppings

• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 2-3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup (loosely packed) fresh basil (torn/sliced)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the olive oil, butter, and chopped onion to a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Incorporate the minced garlic, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes into the pot. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Grape Juice

Pour in the grape juice and let it bubble for 1-2 minutes. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly into a cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Boil and Simmer

Add the chicken broth to the pot and increase the heat to high. Once boiling, add in the pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Mix in Cream and Chicken

Stir in the heavy cream along with cooked chicken. Allow it to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until pasta is tender and chicken is warmed through.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the burner. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese along with baby spinach and basil. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve once spinach has wilted slightly; top bowls with more grated parmesan before enjoying!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Serving Marry Me Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful meal for family and friends. This rich and creamy soup is perfect on its own but can also be paired with various accompaniments that complement its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Toast slices of a fresh baguette and serve them alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance the meal with buttery garlic bread, which adds a nice crunch and flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the soup perfectly.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Top each bowl with more freshly grated parmesan for added flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Add shredded cheddar on top for a different cheesy twist that melts beautifully.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Soup turns out just right, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Bold Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some lemon juice or zest before serving.
• Creaminess Control: Adjust the amount of cream to your liking; less cream will give you a lighter soup.
• Fresh Herbs Addition: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley as a garnish can enhance both aroma and taste.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Cook pasta separately if you prefer it al dente, then add it to each bowl when serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Protein Variations: Feel free to switch up the protein; turkey or lamb can provide unique flavors while maintaining a hearty dish.
• Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, but note that pasta may absorb broth over time.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Marry Me Chicken Soup can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic make for great dippers in the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and color to your table.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers offer a refreshing bite.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushrooms with cream cheese and herbs for a savory appetizer that complements the soup.
5. Quiche Lorraine: A slice of quiche brings richness and pairs well with the creamy texture of the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast with their slight sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or cream can make your soup watery. Stick to the measurements for a balanced flavor and consistency.
• Neglecting the sautéing step: Sautéing onions and garlic builds the dish’s flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow them to soften and release their aroma.
• Overcooking pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Follow the cooking time specified in the recipe for perfectly al dente pasta.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors according to your preference.
• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh basil and spinach add vibrant flavor. Dried herbs don’t offer the same freshness, so opt for fresh whenever possible.

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container because liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup special?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is packed with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs, making it a comforting and delicious choice for any meal.

Can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini or switch up the protein with turkey or lamb for variety.

How do I ensure my pasta stays firm in Marry Me Chicken Soup?

To keep pasta from getting mushy, cook it separately until al dente, then add it just before serving.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it convenient for busy days.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and comfort. Its creamy texture combined with fresh ingredients makes it versatile enough for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins—your options are endless!

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