As I stirred the pot, the aroma of sundried tomatoes and fresh thyme filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy evening in my favorite café. This creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just comfort food; it’s an invitation to bring warmth to your dining table and a promise to impress your loved ones. With its rich, velvety texture and hearty ingredients, this soup is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions that call for something extraordinary. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover chicken you might have on hand! Curious about how this delightful recipe can become a staple in your home? Let’s dive into the details and bring some love into your bowl!
Why Is This Chicken Soup Irresistible?
Comforting and Cozy: The creamy texture will wrap you in warmth, making every spoonful a hug in a bowl.
Rich Flavor Profile: Infused with sundried tomatoes and fresh thyme, it’s more than just soup; it’s a flavor experience.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal fuss!
Versatile Delights: Use leftover chicken or switch up the veggies to make it your own. Plus, it’s adaptable for any dietary needs, whether gluten-free or dairy-free.
Family Favorite: This soup is guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table and might just become your go-to comfort food. So, why wait? Let’s get cooking and savor the goodness together!
Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create this deliciously creamy Chicken Soup!
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the onions; substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
- Diced Onion – Builds an essential flavor base; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors; seasoned to taste for the perfect balance.
- Garlic Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh garlic is a great alternative for a punchier flavor.
- Dried Thyme – Introduces aromatic notes; fresh thyme can be substituted, just use more due to its lower concentration.
For the Soup
- Tomato Paste – Intensifies umami flavor in this creamy chicken soup; crushed tomatoes work as a lighter substitute.
- Chicken Stock – Forms the base of the soup; opt for homemade or low-sodium stock for a healthier option.
- Filtered Water – Adjusts consistency; replace with stock for a richer flavor profile.
- Sundried Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and robust flavor; fresh tomatoes can lighten the recipe but might require acidity adjustments.
- Diced/Shredded Chicken – Provides protein; leftover rotisserie chicken is a quick option, or use raw chicken for richer taste but adjust cooking time.
For Texture and Creaminess
- Small Pasta Shapes (e.g., orecchiette, ditalini) – Adds heartiness and texture; avoid large pasta as it may become mushy too quickly.
- Heavy Cream – Gives the soup its luxurious creaminess; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances richness; nutritional yeast is a nice vegan alternative.
For Brightness
- Red Wine Vinegar – Brightens the flavors of the soup; lemon juice may also work well for added acidity.
- Baby Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; you can swap for other greens, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up a comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup! Enjoy the process, and let the aromas fill your home with love and warmth.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add diced onions along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. This forms the flavorful base of your creamy chicken soup.
Step 2: Enhance the Flavor
Sprinkle in garlic powder and dried thyme, stirring for about 1 minute until the spices release their aroma. This step is crucial for layering the comforting flavors of your soup. Keep the heat steady to avoid burning the spices, promoting a fragrant mixture that beautifully complements the chicken soup.
Step 3: Introduce the Tomato Base
Add tomato paste to the pot and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This deepens the umami flavor of your creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. You’ll know it’s ready when the paste darkens slightly and coats the bottom of the pot. Scraping the pot enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken stock and filtered water, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth to the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the broth and tomato base to meld beautifully as the flavors intensify for the creamy chicken soup.
Step 5: Add the Chicken and Sundried Tomatoes
Stir in your chopped sundried tomatoes and shredded or diced chicken. If using leftover chicken, ensure it's heated through. Bring the soup to a boil once more, allowing it to bubble for 5 minutes. This step ensures that your chicken soup becomes a comforting blend of rich flavors and heartiness.
Step 6: Incorporate the Pasta
Add in your small pasta shapes—like ditalini or orecchiette—cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender yet al dente. This adds nourishment and texture, making your creamy chicken soup a complete meal.
Step 7: Finish with Cream and Greens
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, red wine vinegar, and baby spinach. The creaminess velvets the broth while the spinach wilts into the mixture. This final step adds richness and a pop of green color to the engaging flavors of your chicken soup.
Step 8: Adjust Seasonings
Taste your creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed. A discerning palate is key here! Mixing in the perfect balance ensures every spoonful is an inviting experience, ready to comfort you and your loved ones.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Accompany with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that warms the heart. Revel in the comforting embrace of your creamy chicken soup, which is sure to be loved by family and friends alike!
What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creating the perfect meal isn't just about the soup; it's about the delightful accompaniments that elevate the entire experience.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping, warm, crusty bread enhances the soup's creamy texture, making every bite a comforting joy.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding bright flavors and crunch.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Buttery and garlicky, these breadsticks offer a delightful contrast to the velvety chicken soup, making your meal feel indulgent.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds sweetness and a hearty element, rounding out the meal beautifully.
- Cheese Scones: Flaky and cheesy, these scones bring a delightful warmth alongside the soup, perfect for a comforting supper.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay creates a lovely balance with the creamy soup and enhances its flavors with every sip.
- Peppery Croutons: Crunchy croutons infused with cracked pepper provide a textural contrast to the soup's smoothness, making each spoonful varied and exciting.
- Fruit Tart: For dessert, a delicate fruit tart offers a refreshing sweetness that cleanses the palate after the hearty soup.
- Sparkling Water: A bottle of sparkling water with lime slices can refresh your taste buds while enjoying the meal, creating a cohesive dining experience.
- Apple Cider: A warm apple cider, with its spices and sweetness, brings a cozy element to your meal, ideal for a comforting evening in.
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Soup
Customize this delicious dish to perfectly match your taste buds and pantry staples!
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties for a quick and tasty option. Enjoy the same hearty flavor without compromising dietary needs.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or even bell peppers for an additional nutrition boost. Get creative with seasonal vegetables to enhance both flavor and color.
- Creamy & Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to create a luscious, dairy-free version. The coconut adds an exotic twist that you will love!
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh rosemary or basil in place of thyme for a different aromatic profile. This gives a whole new layer of flavor that elevates your soup delightfully.
- Protein Swap: Use turkey or even plant-based protein for a deliciously rich alternative. Shredded rotisserie duck could also make a lovely twist for special occasions.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha for some heat. This spicy element can transform your comforting bowl into a heartwarming fire!
- Tomato Variations: Try using fire-roasted tomatoes instead of sundried for a smoky flavor or toss in some diced fresh tomatoes for a lovely garden-fresh taste. You’ll find a refreshing burst of flavor!
- Seasoning Alterations: Experiment with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist. Just a few drops can adjust the profile and brighten the dish.
Feel free to explore these fun options and make this Marry Me Chicken Soup your own! It’s all about tailoring it to your whims and cravings. For even more delicious ideas, check out Why Is This Chicken Soup Irresistible? to get inspired!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the cream just before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating: Always reheat your chicken soup on low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for easy meals. This way, you can savor a warm bowl of creamy chicken soup whenever the craving hits!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, garlic, and sundried tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. You can also cook the pasta and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days, preventing it from becoming mushy when reheating. When you're ready to enjoy this hearty chicken soup, simply follow the initial steps of sautéing the aromatics, adding in the prepped ingredients, and cooking everything together on the stove. This way, you'll have a delicious, comforting meal ready with minimal effort, just as time-saving and satisfying as you'd hoped!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken stock elevate the flavors significantly, ensuring your creamy chicken soup is rich and vibrant.
- Don’t Rush Onions: Take your time sautéing the onions; this develops their natural sweetness, providing a solid flavor base for your soup.
- Monitor Pasta Cooking: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking and becoming mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture!
- Cream at the End: For a smooth consistency, add heavy cream only after removing the pot from heat. This keeps the cream from curdling and ensures a luxurious finish.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving! Adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or vinegar for a perfectly balanced creamy chicken soup that suits your palate.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate. When reheating, add the cream then to maintain its velvety texture; it tastes even better the next day!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this chicken soup?
Absolutely! When selecting sundried tomatoes, look for those that are plump and have a vibrant color. For onions, choose ones that feel heavy for their size and are free of dark spots. As for herbs, fresh thyme should be bright and fragrant, while dry thyme should be aromatic and free from clumping.
What is the best method to store leftover chicken soup?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover creamy chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze creamy chicken soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, remember to omit the cream. Place the soup in a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then add the cream right before reheating to keep that lovely creamy texture.
What should I do if my chicken soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than expected, don't worry! Simply stir in a little warm chicken stock or filtered water until it reaches your desired consistency. You can do this gradually to avoid overshooting the texture.
Is there a way to make this chicken soup allergy-friendly?
Very! If you're accommodating dietary restrictions, simply use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly option. Additionally, for a dairy-free variation, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan cheese or swap it out for nutritional yeast. This way, you can ensure everyone at the table enjoys this delicious chicken soup!
Comforting Creamy Chicken Soup You’ll Want to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions with salt and pepper, sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder and dried thyme, stir for about 1 minute until the spices release their aroma.
- Add tomato paste, cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until darkened slightly.
- Pour in chicken stock and filtered water, scrape up any browned bits, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and chicken, bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add small pasta shapes, cover, and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 8-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat, stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, red wine vinegar, and spinach.
- Taste and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or vinegar before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread or salad.
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