Some recipes stick with you forever, not just because they taste amazing, but because they remind you of the people you love. For me, marry me chicken soup is one of those dishes.

I still remember the first time I made a version of this soup. It wasn’t fancy or complicated, but my husband took one bite, looked at me, and said, “I’d marry you all over again just for this.” Now, it’s a staple in our house, especially on chilly evenings when we all crave something warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. My boys love dunking their bread into the rich broth, and honestly, I can’t blame them, it’s pure comfort in a bowl.

If you’ve never heard of marry me chicken, the idea is that it’s so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal. Sounds dramatic? Maybe. But once you taste this creamy, dreamy soup, you’ll see exactly why it has that name. So let’s jump into the recipe details.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

What Makes This Soup So Special?

There’s something magical about a bowl of marry me chicken soup. It’s got the same creamy, savory flavors as the classic marry me chicken but in a cozy soup form. The rich broth, tender shredded chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes come together with just the right amount of parmesan and cream. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

What makes this soup truly shine is its balance. The creamy base isn’t too heavy, the tomatoes add a little tang, and the parmesan gives it a subtle saltiness. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

To get the best results, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds depth and sweetness to the broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because every good soup needs garlic!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Brings out the flavors of the chicken and tomatoes.
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste – Creates a rich, flavorful base.
• 1 quart (4 cups) chicken stock – The heart of the soup. Use homemade or store-bought.
• 2 cups water – Helps balance the broth.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Cuts the acidity of the tomatoes.
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – The secret to that signature marry me flavor.
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 2 cups uncooked ditalini or small pasta – Holds its shape well without overpowering the soup.
• ½ cup heavy cream – For that rich, creamy texture.
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds depth and saltiness.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – A pop of color and nutrients.
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar – Brightens everything up at the end.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste – Adjust to your preference.

Want a soup with extra protein? You might like this high-protein buffalo chicken dip for another easy chicken-based meal!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Soup

Prepping the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, get everything ready:

• Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
• Chop the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Shred the cooked chicken.
• Measure out all the seasonings, stock, and cream.

This small step makes cooking smoother and stress-free!

Cooking the Base for Maximum Flavor

1. Sauté the onions & garlic – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring until soft. Toss in the garlic and thyme, and stir for another 30 seconds.
2. Create the tomato base – Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for 1 minute. This caramelizes the tomato paste slightly, deepening the flavor.
3. Add the liquids – Pour in the chicken stock and water, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Season & simmer – Stir in the salt, sugar, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Bringing It All Together

5. Add the chicken & pasta – Stir in the shredded chicken, then add the uncooked pasta. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the pasta is tender, about 8-12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Finish with cream & cheese – Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and red wine vinegar. Let it warm through without boiling.
7. Add the spinach – Toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup.
8. Taste & adjust – Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the broth is too thick, add a splash of extra stock.
9. Serve & enjoy! – Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra parmesan if you like.

Want another creamy soup idea? You might enjoy this cheesy hamburger potato soup for a similar hearty meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup

When it comes to making the best marry me chicken soup, a few simple tricks can make all the difference. Here’s how to take your soup from good to absolutely unforgettable!

Keep the Pasta from Getting Mushy

Pasta has a sneaky way of soaking up liquid, even after it’s cooked. If you’re planning to enjoy leftovers, consider these two options:

• Cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving.
• Slightly undercook the pasta in the soup so it stays firm when reheated.

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Want to cut your cooking time in half? Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly. It’s tender, flavorful, and saves you from having to cook raw chicken separately.

Don’t Skip the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are the key to getting that signature marry me flavor. They add a touch of sweetness and tanginess that balances the creamy broth beautifully.

Make It Creamier Without Heavy Cream

If you want a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for:

• Half-and-half (for a slightly less rich taste)
• Full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free alternative)
• A mix of milk and a bit of butter (for a budget-friendly option)

Balance the Flavors at the End

Before serving, do a quick taste test. If the soup tastes too rich, add a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up. A little acidity goes a long way!

If you want a delicious homemade dessert to side with this soup, check out this Protein Cinnamon Rolls.

Variations to Try

Love this soup but want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to customize your marry me chicken soup to fit different tastes and dietary needs.

Dairy-Free Option

Want all the creaminess without the dairy? Try these simple swaps:

• Use unsweetened coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor.
• Add extra blended white beans to thicken the broth naturally.

Low-Carb Version

If you’re watching your carbs, swap out the pasta for:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
• Cauliflower rice
• Shredded cabbage

Each of these options will soak up the flavors beautifully while keeping the dish light.

Adding Extra Protein

Need even more protein in your soup? Here’s how to bulk it up:

• Add white beans or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Stir in an egg at the end for a silky texture, similar to egg drop soup.
• Use bone broth instead of stock for added nutrients and protein.

Nutritional Facts

Curious about the nutritional breakdown of this marry me chicken soup? It’s not just delicious—it’s also packed with protein, healthy fats, and a good balance of carbs. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll be getting in each serving:

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	387 kcal
Carbohydrates	26g
Protein	27g
Fat	19g
Saturated Fat	8g
Polyunsaturated Fat	2g
Monounsaturated Fat	7g
Sugar	5g

This soup is high in protein, making it a satisfying meal on its own. The spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add essential vitamins and antioxidants, while the parmesan and cream give it a rich, indulgent taste.

If you want to reduce the fat content, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter dairy-free option. And if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and go easy on the parmesan.

Best Toppings & Sides to Serve With This Soup

This marry me chicken soup is already a complete meal, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more enjoyable. Whether you want something crunchy, cheesy, or light, here are some great options!

Topping Ideas

• Extra Parmesan Cheese – Because more cheese is always a good idea!
• Fresh Basil or Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat.
• Toasted Croutons – A crunchy contrast to the creamy broth.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil – A touch of richness to enhance the flavors.

Best Sides to Serve

• Garlic Bread or Breadsticks – Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
• Crispy Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients.
• Simple Green Salad – A light side with balsamic dressing balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Because soup and grilled cheese are a match made in heaven!

Want another comforting dish? Try a cheesy hamburger potato soup for another warm and hearty meal idea.

With these toppings and sides, every bowl of marry me chicken soup will feel like a restaurant-quality experience right at home!

Storing & Freezing Tips

One of the best things about marry me chicken soup is that it stores beautifully. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers for later, these tips will help keep your soup fresh and delicious.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water.
• Pasta Absorption Warning: The pasta will continue to soak up the broth over time. If you know you’ll be storing leftovers, you can cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.

How to Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup

This soup freezes well, but for the best texture, follow these steps:

• Freeze Without Pasta: If you plan to freeze the soup, leave out the pasta and add it when reheating. Pasta can turn mushy after freezing.
• Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label & Store: Write the date on the container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thawing & Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop, adding fresh pasta while warming.

By following these tips, you’ll always have a cozy, creamy bowl of marry me chicken soup ready to enjoy!

FAQs – Your Marry Me Chicken Soup Questions Answered

Got questions? Here are answers to some of the most common ones about making marry me chicken soup.

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