Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Soup
When you hear the name "Marry Me Chicken Soup," it immediately sparks curiosity and delight. This dish combines comforting ingredients into a beautiful bowl of warmth that’s so delicious it’s rumored to inspire proposals. It's an enticing blend of flavors, textures, and heartwarming essence that makes it a go-to for cozy meals or special occasions with loved ones.
So, why call it “Marry Me Chicken Soup”? The legend surrounding this dish suggests that if you make this recipe for someone you love, they'll be so enchanted by its savory goodness that they will instinctively pop the question! While this might be a playful exaggeration, it underscores the nostalgia and affection that food can evoke. Whether it's date night or a family gathering, Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to impress.
This dish features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, luscious cream, and a host of spices that come together in perfect harmony. Not only is it satisfying, but it's also straightforward enough to whip up on a weeknight. Looking for a dish that nourishes both body and soul? Dive into the recipe below and watch as your loved ones savor every bite!
For more comforting recipes, check out resources like The Kitchn for fantastic inspiration.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
If you're excited to create a bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Let’s quickly run through what you’ll need to whip up this heartwarming dish:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (feel free to mix and match!)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided (seasoning is key!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for that rich flavor)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup julienne or thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes (drained if oil-packed)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (a soothing base)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells (about 2 ¾ cups)
- 5 ounces baby spinach (trust me, it wilts perfectly)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (for that luxurious texture)
- ½ ounce grated Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup), plus more for serving
These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that might just inspire a proposal! For more cooking inspiration, check out this guide to cooking chicken. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creating a comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful journey filled with fragrant aromas and hearty flavors. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation so you can impress your loved ones with this scrumptious dish.
Prepare the chicken
Start by cutting 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This is a crucial step because evenly sized pieces ensure that the chicken cooks uniformly. Once cut, season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This basic seasoning lays the foundation for flavor, making every bite delicious. For those who prefer a quicker option, feel free to use about 2 ½ cups of diced, cooked chicken instead of raw.
Sauté the aromatics
Next, it’s time to add some depth to your soup. In a Dutch oven or a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook the chicken for about 4 to 6 minutes until it’s browned on both sides and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving behind the flavorful drippings.
Now, introduce 1 diced medium yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper into the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt as well. Sauté the mixture until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Combine tomatoes and broth
With the aromatics nicely sautéed, it’s time to add some rich flavors. Stir in ½ cup of julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook this for a couple of minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly, intensifying its flavor. Next, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. For a little kick, you might want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
Cook the pasta
Now, let’s get that pasta in the mix! Add in 8 ounces of dried medium pasta shells and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked al dente, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. This gives the pasta a lovely texture that absorbs the broth beautifully.
Add the chicken and finish the soup
Finally, return the chicken to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Toss in 5 ounces of baby spinach, ¾ cup of heavy cream, and ½ ounce of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the chicken warms through—this will only take about 2 minutes.
Make sure to taste your soup, adding more kosher salt or black pepper if desired. Serve your Marry Me Chicken Soup with extra Parmesan on top for that restaurant-quality finish. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this satisfying dish!
For more fantastic recipes like this, check out The Kitchn for inspiration. Happy cooking!
Variations of Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Soup
If you're a fan of creamy textures, try this delightful take on Marry Me Chicken Soup! Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms alongside the onions for that earthy flavor. As you prepare the soup, incorporate a splash of low-sodium vegetable broth to balance the heaviness of the cream. This variation adds a luscious feel while enhancing the deliciousness of the chicken and fresh spinach. Serve it with rustic bread for a comforting meal that says, "I love you!"
Spicy Chicken and Corn Soup
For those who crave a kick, the Spicy Chicken and Corn variation is a must! In this version of Marry Me Chicken Soup, add sweet corn kernels and a generous dash of hot sauce after stirring in the broth. Don’t forget to enhance the spices with diced jalapeños for that extra heat. This zesty twist not only livens up the classic recipe but is also perfect for chilly evenings when you need a warming bowl of soup that’s full of flavor.
Feel free to experiment with these variations; they’re sure to impress your loved ones! Want more inspiration? Check out this guide on flavor pairings to discover new ingredient combinations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Cooking Marry Me Chicken Soup is both delightful and straightforward! Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
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Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap chicken for turkey ham or diced chicken ham for a different flavor profile. This adds a smoky touch that really complements the dish.
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Perfectly Cooked Pasta: To prevent mushy noodles, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This keeps it al dente and perfect!
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Storing Leftovers: If you have any soup left, store it in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat slowly on the stove to maintain its creamy texture.
For more cooking tips and techniques, you can check out Serious Eats for easy inspiration! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
When enjoying your delightful Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider pairing it with some crusty garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a delightful contrast of textures. The creamy richness of the soup complements a light side dish wonderfully, bringing out the flavors of both.
For a special touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to enhance the dish's presentation and freshness. You could also offer grated Parmesan on the side, allowing guests to customize their servings.
Don’t forget to accompany this delicious meal with a refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade for the perfect finish! For more side ideas, check out this collection of easy recipes.
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Get your ingredients ready by chopping and measuring everything out. This step sets you up for a smooth cooking experience!
Cooking time: 30 minutes
The beauty of Marry Me Chicken Soup lies in its quick, yet delicious preparation. You'll spend about 30 minutes on the stove, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Total time: 45 minutes
In less than an hour, you'll have a comforting bowl of soup that's perfect for any occasion. Check out more tips on timing and prep here for maximizing your cooking efficiency.
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Soup
When preparing Marry Me Chicken Soup, you'll find it packed with nutrients to fuel your day.
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Calories: Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable meal option.
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Protein: With about 35 grams of protein per serving, this soup is a great choice for muscle repair and growth, perfect for anyone looking to stay fit.
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Sodium: The recipe features around 800 mg of sodium per serving, thanks to the low-sodium chicken broth. Adjust this amount if you want to lower your sodium intake further.
For more details on the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used in this delicious soup, check out sources like Healthline or the USDA’s food database to get deeper insights into their health benefits!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs are preferred for Marry Me Chicken Soup, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Feel free to experiment with darker cuts like chicken legs for a richer flavor. Just remember, if you're using pre-cooked chicken, skip the initial browning step and add it during the last few minutes of cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing your Marry Me Chicken Soup is straightforward! Pour any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. If you anticipate having more than a few servings, consider freezing individual portions for future quick meals. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
What can I serve with the soup?
This soup is hearty on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some delicious sides. Freshly baked garlic bread or a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the flavors of Marry Me Chicken Soup. Want a light bite? Think about a creamy cheese board with assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
For more tips on soup pairings, check out this guide for inspiration.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Soup
In conclusion, Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with a touch of romance. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing a loved one, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful—your taste buds will thank you!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs or a combination
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided, plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more as needed
- 0.5 cup julienne sun-dried tomatoes drained if oil-packed (2 ½ ounces)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells about 2 ¾ cups
- 5 ounces baby spinach 5 packed cups
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 ounce grated Parmesan cheese about ¼ cup, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Cut 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season all over with 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt.
- Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Transfer the chicken to a plate with a slotted spoon.
- Add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pot, until the onion is softened and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in ½ cup julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook, stirring often, until the tomato paste is slightly darkened in color, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 pinch red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Add 5 ounces baby spinach, ¾ cup heavy cream, and ½ ounce grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring often, until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Taste and season with more kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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