Marry me chicken soup
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With its…
Tip: save now, cook later.Marry Me Chicken Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture and hints of garlic and herbs, this soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying on a chilly day.
I love making this soup when I want something simple but special. The name always makes me smile—it promises a dish so good, someone might just pop the question! It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether you’re sharing it with family or friends.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this soup is with a side of crusty bread for dipping and a little sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a little extra comfort food to brighten your day. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breasts keeps the soup tender and juicy. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken or shredded leftover chicken to save time.
Chicken Broth: This builds the base flavor. For a lighter option, try low-sodium broth or vegetable broth for a twist. Homemade broth works best if you have it.
Small Pasta Shells or Orzo: These add a nice texture without overpowering the soup. If you don’t have these, small elbow macaroni or ditalini can work well too.
Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrients with mild flavor. You can swap with kale or Swiss chard, but add them a bit earlier to soften.
Herbs (Basil and Parsley): Fresh herbs really brighten the soup at the end. If fresh isn’t available, use dried herbs but add them earlier in cooking to release flavor.
How Can I Make Sure the Pasta Does Not Get Mushy in the Soup?
One common challenge is avoiding mushy pasta when making soup ahead or storing leftovers. Here’s how to keep it just right:
- Cook the pasta separately until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- Add the pasta to each bowl when serving, or just before reheating individual portions.
- If you prefer cooking the pasta in the soup, reduce cooking time and check often to avoid overcooking.
I usually cook my pasta separately so leftovers keep their texture better. This small extra step really helps keep your soup enjoyable the next day!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for simmering the soup and cooking pasta all in one place.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – helps you dice veggies and shred chicken easily.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep neat and organized.
- Ladle – makes serving hot soup simple and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the herbs.
- Swap chicken for turkey if you want a leaner protein with similar taste and texture.
- Stir in some cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies and a different texture.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)
- 6 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup small pasta shells or orzo
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chiffonade (thinly sliced), for garnish
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Approximately 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes to prepare the vegetables and chicken, 15 minutes simmering to cook the pasta and blend the flavors, plus a few minutes to finish and garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until fragrant—but be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Simmer the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and add the diced tomatoes and pasta shells or orzo. Let the soup simmer uncovered until the pasta is tender, around 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Add Chicken and Spinach:
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and chopped spinach. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.
5. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and optionally fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread if you’d like.
Enjoy your warm and nourishing Marry Me Chicken Soup—perfect for cozy meals any time!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding and adding it to the soup. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the soup, cool it completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
How Can I Prevent the Pasta from Getting Mushy?
To avoid mushy pasta, cook the pasta separately until al dente, then add to individual bowls when serving. If cooking pasta in the soup, watch the simmer time carefully and avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Spinach?
You can use kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach. Just remember to add kale and chard a bit earlier to soften properly, and thaw frozen spinach well before adding.