Marry Me Chicken Soup

If you are searching for a soul-warming dish that bursts with flavor and comfort, this Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate answer. It masterfully balances tender shredded chicken, creamy Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious broth with perfectly cooked pasta. Every spoonful invites you into a cozy hug of vibrant textures and savory richness. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the carefully selected and simple Ingredients, each enhancing the dish’s depth and making it truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the Ingredients are. Each one plays an essential role: the sun-dried tomato oil brings an aromatic richness, the vegetables add sweetness and freshness, and the herbs perfectly round out the flavor profile, creating a harmonious and warming soup experience.

• 8 oz dry ditalini pasta: Small pasta shapes that soak up the broth without overpowering the other components.
• 3 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil: Adds a tangy, aromatic base that elevates every bite.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Provides natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 3 medium carrots, chopped: Bring subtle earthiness and a hint of natural sugar.
• 3 celery stalks, chopped: Offers crisp freshness and a mild bitterness that balances the richness.
• 8 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with savory warmth and fragrance.
• ¼ cup tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the broth color and taste.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps marry the flavors.
• ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Intensifies the tomato essence with a chewy texture.
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth: A clean and savory base that supports the other flavors.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs giving an herby, Mediterranean essence.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds subtle peppery and slightly minty notes.
• ½ tsp dried basil: Brings a delicate sweetness and floral aroma.
• 1¼ tsp salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the soup.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked): The hearty protein star, tender and juicy.
• ¾ cup heavy cream: Enriches the soup for a silky, velvety mouthfeel.
• ¾ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Imparts a nutty, salty finish that melts beautifully into the soup.
• Chopped fresh basil (optional): For a bright, herbal garnish that adds color and freshness.

How to Make Ingredients

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the ditalini pasta according to the package’s instructions, aiming for that perfect al dente firmness. Once cooked, drain and set it aside to wait patiently while we build the rest of the soup’s layers of flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, sautéing gently for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds to awaken its fragrance without burning.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add the tomato paste and butter to the pot, stirring until the veggies are coated evenly and start to caramelize slightly. Then, fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let this mixture sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, intensifying the tomato flavor and adding a hint of chewiness.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a rolling boil before reducing the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble softly for 10 minutes, so all the herbaceous and savory notes meld beautifully together.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

Remove the soup from heat and carefully stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked pasta. Mix thoroughly to combine everything, letting the cheese melt into the creamy broth, creating a rich, velvety texture that wraps around the tender chicken and pasta.

How to Serve Ingredients

Garnishes

The dish truly comes alive with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil on top. It adds a vibrant green pop and a fresh herbal aroma that perfectly contrasts with the soup’s creamy richness. Feel free to add a light drizzle of sun-dried tomato oil for an extra touch of flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or garlic focaccia to soak up every delicious drop. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette also complements the creamy texture and balances the heartiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve this soup in rustic bowls with grated Parmesan on the side for extra cheesiness. You might also add a few whole sun-dried tomatoes or a sprig of fresh basil to each bowl to give it an elegant restaurant-quality finish at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Marry Me Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it even more comforting the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but to preserve the texture, avoid adding the pasta before freezing. Store just the soup base and chicken, then cook or add fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini works great because of its small size, other small shapes like elbow macaroni or orzo also work beautifully in this soup.

Is rotisserie chicken better than cooking chicken from scratch?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds deliciously seasoned meat to the soup, but cooked chicken breast or thighs work perfectly as well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese or omit the Parmesan altogether.

How spicy is this soup?

This soup is mild and comforting by nature, but you can add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Definitely. You can prepare the full soup (without pasta if freezing), refrigerate, and then reheat it before serving with freshly cooked pasta for maximum texture.

Final Thoughts

Making Marry Me Chicken Soup is like inviting a close friend into your kitchen and sharing a bowl of love and warmth. The blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and rich creaminess makes this soup an instant favorite you’ll want to return to again and again. Don’t hesitate – gather your Ingredients and dive into a heartwarming cooking experience that’s as joyful as it is delicious!

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