Name: Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: Crusty bread or crackers for serving

There's something magical about the warm embrace of Marry Me Chicken Soup on a chilly evening. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and earthy herbs come together in a comforting bowl that's as heartwarming as it is delicious.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a spin on classic chicken soup, and it was love at first spoonful. My family quickly dubbed it "marry me soup," claiming its rich, luxurious flavor was irresistible enough to win anyone over. Whether you're cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Why You'll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this indulgent yet simple soup. It’s the ultimate combination of comfort and sophistication, making it perfect for everything from a weeknight dinner to a cozy date night.

First, this soup is incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and minimal prep time, it’s a lifesaver on busy days when you need a hearty meal fast.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. Creamy, garlicky broth mingles with juicy chicken and fragrant herbs for a soup that feels elevated without any fuss.

It’s also adaptable to your needs. Whether you’re catering to a gluten-free diet or looking to sneak in extra veggies, this soup welcomes modifications.

Finally, it’s freezer-friendly. Make a big batch, and you’ll have the perfect comfort meal ready to reheat when you’re craving something delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Soup lies in its simple, yet high-impact ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a dish that’s flavorful and comforting.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for their juicy texture and rich flavor. You can substitute with chicken breasts, but thighs give the broth extra depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are a must here, infusing the soup with their warm, savory aroma.
Chicken Broth: Use a high-quality chicken broth as it forms the base of the soup. Homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought option works wonderfully.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems add a tangy sweetness that elevates the soup. Look for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.
Cream: Heavy cream adds a luscious, velvety texture. For a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, though the soup won’t be as rich.
Herbs: A mix of Italian seasoning, fresh basil, and thyme ties all the flavors together beautifully.

If you have one, a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for cooking this soup evenly and capturing all the flavors.

How to Make This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Crafting this soup is a breeze, even for beginner cooks. Let me guide you through the process step by step!

Prepare the chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Let it sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, then stir in diced onions and cook until softened.
Build the broth: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pot. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of heavy cream.
Simmer and shred: Return the chicken to the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.
Finish with herbs: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, and an extra splash of cream for good measure. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes before serving.

In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a pot of soul-warming soup ready to enjoy. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate experience!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (and you might want to make extra!), this soup stores beautifully.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tip: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Soup is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether and serve the soup over rice or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for chickpeas or diced tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or diced zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end for a richer flavor.

Experiment and find the combination that speaks to your taste buds. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this soup!

Whether you're wooing a loved one or just treating yourself, this Marry Me Chicken Soup will win hearts and satisfy appetites. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a recipe you treasure forever!