Marry me chicken soup
Marry Me Chicken Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken, creamy broth, and just the right blend of herbs and seasonings that make every…
Tip: save now, cook later.Marry Me Chicken Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken, creamy broth, and just the right blend of herbs and seasonings that make every spoonful feel special. It’s a cozy twist on a comfort classic that has a little extra love baked right in. The flavors are rich but gentle, making it perfect for any day you want to feel cared for.
I love making Marry Me Chicken Soup when I need something easy and satisfying, but still a bit fancy. It’s a dish that gets everyone asking for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them! Cooking it feels like a little moment of joy because it’s simple to put together but tastes like it took a lot of thought. Plus, it’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand, adding your own spin every time.
My favorite way to serve this soup is with a slice of crusty bread or some buttery crackers on the side. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you just want something comforting without too much fuss. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m sharing a secret recipe that brings a bit of happiness to the table—and that’s really what good food is all about.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked shredded chicken is the heart of this soup. Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick fix. You can also poach your own chicken breasts or thighs for fresh flavor.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative.
Mushrooms: Use white or cremini mushrooms for an earthy boost. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap them for diced zucchini or omit altogether.
Rotini Pasta: This pasta holds the soup nicely, but you can use any small pasta like elbow macaroni, or gluten-free variants if needed.
Spinach & Parsley: Fresh greens brighten the soup. Baby kale or swiss chard are great swaps if fresh spinach is not available.
How Can I Get the Soup Creamy Without Curdling?
Adding cream to hot soup can sometimes cause it to curdle. To avoid this:
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer before adding cream.
- Temper the cream by slowly stirring in a little hot soup before mixing it all together.
- Stir well but avoid boiling the soup after cream is added.
- Adding the cream near the end helps keep it smooth and velvety.
Following these tips will give you a silky and comforting soup that feels indulgent but cooks easily.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot – perfect for cooking all your ingredients together and simmering the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – essential for chopping onions, garlic, mushrooms, and herbs quickly.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep organized and safe.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your broth, cream, and spices just right.
- Ladle – helps serve the soup easily without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or shredded rotisserie duck for a richer flavor that’s perfect in cooler months.
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky crunch that complements the creamy broth beautifully.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to add a sweet, tangy punch.
- Use kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier texture and earthy taste.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 ounces rotini or similar pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Cooked crispy bacon or pancetta bits
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a comforting meal ready in about 30 minutes total. It’s a perfect quick dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft. Then, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until mushrooms are tender and golden.
2. Add Chicken and Broth:
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so the flavors blend nicely.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Add the rotini pasta to the pot and cook for about 7-9 minutes until the pasta is al dente — soft but with a little bite.
4. Add Fresh Greens and Seasoning:
Stir in the chopped spinach and parsley, cooking just until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra parsley. If you like, add crispy bacon or pancetta bits for a smoky crunch and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy, creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup!
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Flavor Variations & Tips:
- Swap chicken for turkey or shredded duck for a richer twist.
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for smoky flavor.
- Try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to add a sweet tang.
- Use kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier leafy green.
- To keep the soup creamy without curdling, add cream at a gentle simmer, and avoid boiling after adding it.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before adding it to the soup. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the creamy texture.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Pasta for a Gluten-Free Option?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or swap for cooked rice or quinoa for a tasty gluten-free alternative that absorbs the soup’s flavors well.