Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup brings the viral Marry Me Chicken flavors into a comforting, one-pot soup perfect for weeknights. This creamy, hearty dish combines tender chunks of chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, Parmesan, and baby spinach, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. The result is a warm, flavorful bowl that’s equally suited for cozy nights at home or impressing guests at dinner parties.

Inspired by the classic Marry Me Chicken, this soup retains the signature creamy texture and bold Italian flavors but in a more rustic, spoonable form. Every ingredient blends to create a dish bursting with layers of garlic, herbs, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and umami-rich Parmesan, all tied together with a luxurious broth.

SAVE THIS!SAVE THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot simplicity – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Viral-inspired flavors – Inspired by Marry Me Chicken, known for its irresistible taste.
• Balanced and customizable – Creamy without being too heavy, and easy to tweak for different diets.
• Perfect for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
• Versatile dish – Serve as a comforting meal, an elegant starter, or even a crowd-pleasing lunch.

Essential Tools & Equipment

Before you begin, gather these tools to make preparation smooth:

• Large Dutch oven or stockpot – Ensures even cooking and enough space for all ingredients.
• Sharp chef’s knife – For cutting chicken and vegetables with precision.
• Cutting board – To keep ingredients organized.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Gentle on cookware and ideal for stirring.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accuracy.
• Ladle – For serving the perfect bowlful.

Why These Tools Matter

A Dutch oven helps maintain even heat, especially for simmering soups. A sharp knife ensures evenly cut vegetables and chicken, which promotes even cooking. Wooden spoons prevent scratching while allowing you to easily scrape up flavor-packed bits from the bottom of the pot.

---

Preparation Tips

• Pre-chop your vegetables and chicken for faster cooking.
• Use room-temperature cream to prevent curdling.
• Grate fresh Parmesan rather than using pre-shredded cheese for smoother melting.
• Drain and pat dry sun-dried tomatoes to control excess oil.
• Taste as you go to adjust seasoning gradually.

---

Ingredients List

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks or 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
• 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small-shaped pasta)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 handfuls baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons parsley or basil, finely chopped (for garnish)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
2. Add carrots, onion, and garlic, cooking for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the chicken and cook another 3 minutes until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Add tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
5. Pour in the chicken broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Stir in the pasta, cover again, and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and baby spinach until the spinach wilts.
9. Cover and let the soup rest for 5 minutes off heat to allow flavors to fully develop.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that can be served on its own or paired with complementary sides to make it part of a larger meal. The rich, creamy broth and tender chicken make it versatile enough for a casual family dinner or a cozy dinner party centerpiece. Here are a few ways to serve this comforting soup:

• Garnish generously – Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for extra flavor and color.
• Add a bright finish – A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving enhances the richness with a touch of acidity.
• Pair with crusty bread – Serve with warm Italian bread, a baguette, or garlic knots to soak up every bit of the creamy broth.
• Serve in bread bowls – Hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls create a fun, hearty presentation perfect for special occasions.
• Top with crispy bacon – For an extra savory touch, add crumbled crispy bacon or pancetta just before serving.
• Keep it light – Balance the richness with a light arugula salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette.

This soup works well as a stand-alone meal or as part of a multi-course dinner with appetizers and a dessert to follow.

---

Common Mistakes & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though Marry Me Chicken Soup is easy to prepare, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Overcooking the Chicken

The chicken breasts should be gently simmered, not boiled aggressively. Overcooking can make them dry and rubbery. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly, and avoid leaving them in the soup too long after they are fully cooked.

Curdling the Cream

Adding cream to a boiling soup can cause curdling. To prevent this, lower the heat before adding the cream and stir it in gradually. Use room temperature cream and avoid low-fat substitutes, which tend to break apart more easily.

Skipping the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

The sun-dried tomatoes provide a signature tang that balances the creamy broth. Omitting them results in a flatter flavor. Choose high-quality oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best texture and taste.

Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta

The pasta should be cooked directly in the soup for added flavor, but it’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Ditalini pasta works well because it holds its shape without becoming mushy. Taste the pasta near the end of the cooking time to ensure it’s just tender.

Inconsistent Chopping

Uniformly chopped vegetables and chicken ensure everything cooks evenly. Large chunks of carrot or overly small bits of chicken can lead to an unbalanced texture.

Over-salting

Since Parmesan is salty, be cautious with additional salt, especially if using regular chicken broth rather than low-sodium. Taste and adjust the seasoning after the Parmesan melts.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

While Marry Me Chicken Soup can stand alone, pairing it with complementary sides enhances the meal and adds variety. Here are eight perfect side dishes to serve:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks

Soft, buttery breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with Parmesan create the ultimate dipping companion for the rich broth.

Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons

The crisp romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the creamy soup.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Lightly roasted asparagus tossed with lemon zest offers a bright, fresh contrast to the soup’s richness.

Caprese Salad

Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing Italian touch.

Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with grated Parmesan offer a hearty, savory pairing.

Classic Bruschetta

Toasted baguette slices topped with marinated tomatoes, garlic, and basil provide a light, flavorful appetizer to start the meal.

Italian Herb Focaccia

Herb-flecked focaccia bread, with its chewy texture and olive oil-rich flavor, pairs beautifully with the creamy broth.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Mushrooms

These tender mushrooms filled with creamy ricotta and spinach offer a rich but balanced side to the soup’s heartiness.

Recipe Tips

Perfecting Marry Me Chicken Soup comes down to attention to detail and small adjustments that enhance both flavor and texture. Whether you are preparing this for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, these tips ensure the best results.

• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes – These provide the signature tangy, umami-rich burst that balances the creamy broth.
• Grate your own Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese creates a silkier texture.
• Keep the cream at room temperature – Cold cream can curdle when added to hot broth. Letting it warm slightly helps it blend in smoothly.
• Taste as you go – Sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and broth all add salt. Taste at the end and adjust seasoning carefully.
• Add spinach at the end – This preserves its bright color and tender texture. Stir it in after the heat is turned off.
• Make it heartier – Adding white beans, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers can increase both texture and nutrition.
• Customize the herbs – Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano add vibrant flavor. Stir them in just before serving.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken Soup is how well it stores and reheats. This makes it a perfect choice for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.

• Refrigeration – Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – If you plan to freeze the soup, leave out the pasta and spinach until reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating on the stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
• Reheating in the microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy chicken soup inspired by the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe. It features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and Italian herbs in a rich broth.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup gluten-free?

Yes. Simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or even cooked rice or quinoa for a different texture.

What makes Marry Me Chicken so popular?

The viral Marry Me Chicken dish gained popularity for its rich, creamy sauce combined with bold sun-dried tomato and herb flavors. This soup captures those same flavors in a cozy, spoonable format.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Always lower the heat before adding the cream. Stir it in slowly and use room temperature cream for best results.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup without the pasta, cream, and spinach if making ahead. Add those when reheating to maintain the best texture.

What pasta works best in Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Ditalini is ideal because it holds its shape without becoming too soft. Orzo or small shells also work well.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except pasta, cream, Parmesan, and spinach. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes, followed by cream, Parmesan, and spinach just before serving.

Is Marry Me Chicken Soup keto-friendly?

It can be. Replace the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles and use heavy cream for a lower-carb option.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, zucchini, kale, or roasted red peppers all complement the flavors beautifully.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you do not have sun-dried tomatoes, try using roasted cherry tomatoes or fire-roasted red peppers, though the flavor will shift slightly.

---

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup takes everything people love about the original viral dish and transforms it into a rich, comforting soup that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving to guests. The creamy broth, tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant Italian herbs come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is both cozy and elegant.

Whether served with crusty bread, paired with a crisp salad, or enjoyed on its own, this soup delivers bold flavor and comforting texture in every spoonful. With easy preparation, customizable options, and excellent storage potential, it is a versatile recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

For more cozy, comforting recipes, be sure to check out our collection of one-pot soups and Italian-inspired dinners for even more inspiration.