Description
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that has gained popularity for its rich taste and comforting ingredients. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and pasta in a creamy broth, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces medium shell pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Paste:
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Prepare Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Seasonings:
- Add the cream cheese cubes and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and add the shell pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken and Spinach:
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and chopped spinach.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil adds a rich flavor. Ensure they are well-drained before chopping.
- Cream Cheese: Having the cream cheese at room temperature helps it to incorporate smoothly into the soup. If needed, press any lumps against the side of the pot to help them melt.
- Pasta: Medium shell pasta is recommended, but feel free to substitute with your preferred small pasta shape. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work well.
- Serving Suggestions: This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.