Introduction to This Marry Me Chicken Soup
When it comes to heartwarming meals, This Marry Me Chicken Soup stands out not just for its comforting flavors but also for the enchanting story behind its name. Legend has it that this dish has magical powers—once you serve it, your loved one may be so smitten that they’ll want to pop the question! Imagine cozy evenings shared over a steaming bowl, infused with rich herbs and creamy goodness, making even the busiest weeknight feel special.
But what really makes this soup a keeper? It’s the perfect fusion of easy-to-find ingredients, like sun-dried tomatoes and fresh baby spinach, blended together with tender pieces of chicken for a satisfying experience. If you're curious to know how such a delightful recipe emerged, it incorporates elements from the original "Marry Me" chicken—a dish that has swept social media for its romantic reputation.
With its blend of flavors and soul-soothing warmth, This Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a heartfelt gesture. So, whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, get ready to savor every delightful spoonful! For more on the origins of culinary favorites, check out articles on The Kitchn or Food52.
Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creating a delightful bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup begins with a few essential ingredients that bring flavor and comfort. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!
Essential ingredients you need
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup of julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil infuses a rich, savory taste.
- Chicken Broth: Two 32-ounce packages bring depth and warmth to your soup base.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup for that luscious, creamy texture everyone loves.
- Rotisserie Chicken: 2 cups shredded adds heartiness to your bowl.
- Fresh Spinach: 3 cups packed for a nutritious pop of color and flavor.
- Pasta: 8 ounces of uncooked medium shell pasta ties everything together.
Optional ingredients for enhanced flavor
- Fresh Basil: 4 teaspoons (plus extra for garnish) elevate the aroma with fragrant notes.
- Crushed Red Pepper: A dash (or more!) if you enjoy a little kick.
- Cream Cheese & Parmesan: These cheeses provide an extra creaminess that makes this soup irresistible.
For a deeper dive into these ingredients, check out sources like The Kitchn for tips on sourcing the best produce! Cooking with fresh, quality ingredients truly elevates your dishes. Enjoy making this heartwarming soup!
Step-by-step Preparation of This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Cooking is an experience best shared, especially when it comes to comfort foods like This Marry Me Chicken Soup. Let’s walk through each step together to create a bowlful of pure love.
Gather and prepare all ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to have everything ready. This not only makes the cooking process smoother but also helps avoid any frantic searches halfway through. Take a moment to gather:
- Sun-dried tomatoes: ½ cup, drained and julienne-cut
- Oil from the jar: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 ½ cups, chopped
- Garlic: 4 medium cloves, minced
- Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons
- Chicken broth: 2 (32-ounce) packages
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup
- Fresh basil: 4 teaspoons, chopped
- Kosher salt: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Italian seasoning: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper: ¼ teaspoon, plus more for garnish
- Medium shell pasta: 8 ounces
- Fresh baby spinach: 3 cups, roughly chopped
- Rotisserie chicken: 2 cups, shredded
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces, cubed
- Parmesan cheese: 1 ½ ounces, finely shredded
With everything at your fingertips, you’re ready to begin this delightful journey.
Sauté the aromatics in a Dutch oven
In a large Dutch oven, heat the tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together, stirring often, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial as it layers flavor into your soup.
Combine the tomato ingredients for a rich base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and the sun-dried tomatoes. This combination cooks for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color. It’s here that the base of This Marry Me Chicken Soup starts to take shape, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Add broth and cream, then bring to a boil
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing well along with the chopped basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, which should take about 12 minutes. Don't rush this part; let it simmer and mingle!
Cook the pasta to perfection
Once boiling, add in the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, roughly 12 minutes. You want it tender but still with a slight bite — this adds texture to your soup.
Mix in spinach, chicken, and cheeses
Reduce the heat to low. Now, gently fold in the spinach, shredded chicken, cubed cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cream cheese and Parmesan melt into the warm soup, creating that creamy richness we all crave, about 5 more minutes.
Garnish and serve
Finally, it’s time to garnish your masterpiece. Add your soup to bowls and finish with additional shards of Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and a dash of crushed red pepper for that extra kick. Serve immediately and enjoy the love that exudes from every comforting spoonful.
Take a moment to relish this moment – after all, you've just made This Marry Me Chicken Soup, a perfect companion for chilly evenings or intimate gatherings. Happy cooking!
Variations on This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Here are a couple of delicious twists to elevate This Marry Me Chicken Soup into something uniquely yours.
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Version
For those who adore earthy flavors, try adding sautéed mushrooms! Simply cook 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms alongside the onions and garlic for a rich, creamy texture. The mushrooms infuse the broth with an umami touch that makes each spoonful heartier and more satisfying. For extra creaminess, consider stirring in a bit more heavy cream at the end.
Spicy Kick with Added Chilies
If you enjoy a little heat, introducing chilies can take This Marry Me Chicken Soup to the next level. Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking the base. This spicy twist complements the dish beautifully, giving the soup a kick that appeals to adventurous palates. Just be cautious with the quantity—adjust according to your heat tolerance!
For more tips on customizing your soups, check out EatingWell. Whatever your style, you can’t go wrong with these variations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Secret to perfecting your soup's flavor
To elevate the flavor of This Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought for a richer taste. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also make a world of difference. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go; a pinch more salt or a dash of crushed red pepper can enhance the overall profile beautifully.
Best practices for storing leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the consistency and flavor. For longer storage, think about freezing your soup; it holds up wonderfully in a freezer-friendly container for about three months. Just remember to let it cool before freezing!
For more tips on soup storage, check out this helpful guide.
Serving Suggestions for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ideal accompaniments for your delicious soup
To elevate This Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad, keeping things light and vibrant. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a zesty contrast. You can also serve crusty bread or warm rolls for that perfect dunking experience. For a heartier touch, try adding some turkey bacon crisps or shredded chicken ham on top.
Presentation tips to impress your guests
First impressions are everything! Serve This Marry Me Chicken Soup in vibrant bowls, garnished with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of elegance. Light a couple of candles, and voilà—your cozy meal transforms into a romantic feast. Remember, the art of presentation can make your soup not just a dish but a delightful experience your guests will remember.
For more great serving ideas, check out Bon Appétit's suggestions.
Time Breakdown for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Preparation and cooking times are essential for planning your culinary adventure! Here’s a quick overview to help you schedule your next kitchen session.
Preparation Time
Spend about 20 minutes gathering and prepping your ingredients, including chopping onions and garlic and getting those lovely sun-dried tomatoes ready.
Cooking Time
You’ll need approximately 40 minutes to bring everything together and create the perfect bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Total Time
In just 1 hour, you’ll have a comforting, creamy soup that’s sure to impress anyone you share it with.
Now that you know the time commitment, are you ready to create some magic in your kitchen? Grab those ingredients, and let’s get started! For more tips on meal prep and cooking, check out Food & Wine for expert advice.
Nutritional Facts for This Marry Me Chicken Soup
When you're diving into a warm bowl of This Marry Me Chicken Soup, knowing its nutritional benefits can enhance your mealtime experience. Here are the essential details:
Calories per Serving
Each serving packs in 654 calories, making it a hearty option that's suitable for a comforting dinner without going overboard.
Protein Content
With 33 grams of protein per bowl, this soup is a great way to meet your daily protein needs, especially if you're looking for muscle recovery or balanced nutrition.
Sodium Levels
Keep an eye on the sodium levels, as this dish contains 2247 mg per serving. For those monitoring their intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or adjusting the salt to suit your taste.
Enjoy this delicious soup while being mindful of its nutritional profile, and make it part of your wholesome eating routine! For more on the importance of balanced meals, check out resources from the American Heart Association and ChooseMyPlate.gov.
FAQs about This Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for medium shell pasta, you can easily substitute it with your favorite pasta shape, like fusilli, bowties, or even whole grain options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta varieties may have varying requirements.
Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can enjoy this Marry Me Chicken Soup without dairy. Opt for a dairy-free cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip the cream cheese and Parmesan. You can also enhance the flavor by incorporating nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
What are the best sides to serve with this soup?
Pairing this delightful soup with fresh sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving it alongside a garden salad, crusty bread, or a light garlic focaccia. For a heartier touch, roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad could complement this Marry Me Chicken Soup perfectly.
Curious to explore more recipe ideas? Check out AllRecipes for endless inspiration!
Conclusion on This Marry Me Chicken Soup
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a hearty meal; it's a love story in every bowl. With creamy textures and vibrant flavors, it embodies comfort and warmth, perfect for any occasion. Once you try this delightful recipe, you’ll understand why it’s destined to win hearts!
This Marry Me Chicken Soup Is a Bowlful of Pure Love
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 0.5 cups drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs
- 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- 1.5 cups chopped yellow onion
- 4 medium cloves garlic, minced (about 4 teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 64 ounces chicken broth 2 packages
- 1 cups heavy whipping cream
- 4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil , plus more for garnish (optional)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1.5 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper , plus more for garnish
- 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
- 3 cups packed roughly chopped fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese , cubed, at room temperature
- 1.5 ounces Parmesan cheese , finely shredded, plus more for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all ingredients.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomatoes in a large Dutch oven over medium until shimmering. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring often, until softened, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes; cook, stirring constantly, until tomato paste is slightly deeper red in color, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in broth, cream, basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper; bring to a boil over medium, stirring occasionally, about 12 minutes.
- Add pasta and reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente, about 12 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, and add spinach, chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan; cook, stirring often, until cream cheese and Parmesan are melted and chicken is heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan, basil, and crushed red pepper. Serve immediately.
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