There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that warms your soul and makes you feel loved. For me, cooking is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating memories and sharing moments with the people I care about. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe with you. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, with tender chicken, creamy broth, and a blend of herbs and spices that will make you fall in love at first bite.
This recipe is inspired by the famous “Marry Me Chicken,” but I’ve transformed it into a cozy, hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: The star of the dish, chicken breast is lean, tender, and absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully. It’s the perfect protein to make this soup hearty and satisfying.
Heavy cream: This adds a rich, velvety texture to the soup, making it indulgent and comforting. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a luxurious base.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems pack a punch of sweet, tangy flavor. They add depth and complexity to the soup, making every spoonful a delight.
Chicken broth: The foundation of any good soup, chicken broth provides a savory base that ties all the ingredients together. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Garlic: A must-have for any savory dish, garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a Mediterranean flair to the soup, making it fragrant and flavorful.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts into the soup, adding a nutty, salty richness that complements the creamy broth perfectly.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds a subtle fruity note and helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Red pepper flakes: A pinch of heat from red pepper flakes elevates the soup, giving it a subtle kick that balances the creaminess.
Fresh basil: A garnish of fresh basil adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish to the dish.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine, allowing their flavors to meld with the garlic.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
While the broth simmers, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. This will ensure every spoonful of soup has a perfect balance of chicken and broth.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes. The cheese will melt into the broth, creating a creamy, luxurious texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use high-quality ingredients: Since this recipe has simple ingredients, their quality makes a big difference. Opt for fresh garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and good-quality sun-dried tomatoes.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
- Add veggies: Feel free to toss in spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- Control the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add even more richness to the soup.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but be aware that the cream may separate slightly when thawed. Stir well while reheating to bring it back together.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this soup.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Enjoy making and savoring this Marry Me Chicken Soup—it’s a recipe that’s sure to win hearts!