Marry Me Chicken Soup

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Introduction

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s so delicious, it’s said to be a recipe you’ll want to marry. This hearty soup features tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that’s simmered to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food that combines the creaminess of a classic chicken soup with the bold flavors of garlic, thyme, and a hint of Parmesan.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner with family, and the reaction was priceless. The creamy broth, perfectly seasoned chicken, and the addition of Parmesan create a taste that’s simply irresistible. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, comforting and satisfying, with just the right balance of flavors to make it special.

What’s so great about this recipe is that it’s not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and some time to let the flavors meld together, you can have a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to impress your guests, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Perfect for:

  • Cozy dinners
  • Family meals
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Special occasions
  • Serving to guests

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here’s why Marry Me Chicken Soup will quickly become your favorite:

  • Creamy and Rich: The soup has a luxurious, creamy texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent.
  • Bold and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and thyme infuses the soup with deep, savory flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
  • Hearty and Filling: With tender chicken and hearty vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
  • Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in one pot, making it simple to prepare without a lot of fuss.
  • Versatile: You can customize this soup by adding extra vegetables or using different herbs to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Marry Me Chicken Soup:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken breasts (or thighs) provide the bulk of protein and flavor in this soup.
  • Creamy Base: Heavy cream and whole milk create the soup’s luxurious creaminess, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth.
  • Herbs and Spices: Fresh garlic, thyme, and basil infuse the soup with aromatic flavors, and a hint of lemon juice balances the richness.
  • Vegetables: Carrots and celery bring texture and sweetness to the soup, complementing the savory chicken and broth.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds creaminess and umami to the soup, making it even more irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Marry Me Chicken Soup:

Prepare the Soup Base:

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
  3. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Shred the Chicken: While the broth is heating, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or chop it into small cubes.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Make it Creamy:

  1. Add the Cream and Milk: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes rich and creamy.
  2. Optional Thickening: If you want a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
  3. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Serve the Soup:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for a cozy meal at home or serving guests. Here’s how to enjoy it:

  • With Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the rich broth.
  • As a Main Course: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main course for dinner, especially with a side salad.
  • For Lunch: It’s the perfect comforting soup to bring to work for lunch, or serve as part of a meal prep for the week.
  • For Special Occasions: The creamy, flavorful nature of this soup makes it great for holiday dinners or a comforting dish for family gatherings.

Additional Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here are some tips to make your Marry Me Chicken Soup even better:

  • Use Bone-In Chicken: For extra flavor, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to remove the bones after cooking.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a little heat.
  • Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables, like potatoes, spinach, or peas, to bulk up the soup and add more flavor.
  • Blend the Soup: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part or all of the soup with an immersion blender.
  • Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup and helps balance the richness.
  • Meal Prep: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Marry Me Chicken Soup:

  • Chicken and Spinach Soup: Add fresh spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for a healthy, vibrant addition.
  • Lemon Chicken Soup: Increase the amount of lemon juice for a citrus-forward flavor.
  • Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Add cooked wild rice to the soup for added texture and heartiness.
  • Chicken Tortilla Soup: Add corn and a little chili powder to turn this into a chicken tortilla soup with a southwestern twist.
  • Chicken and Mushroom Soup: Add sliced mushrooms to the soup for an earthy, savory flavor.
  • Low-Carb Chicken Soup: Omit the potatoes and use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version.
  • Spicy Chicken Soup: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to give the soup a spicy kick.
  • Dairy-Free Chicken Soup: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the cream and milk to make the soup dairy-free.
  • Chicken Pesto Soup: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of pesto for an herby, basil-rich variation.
  • Chicken and Dumpling Soup: Add small dumplings (made from biscuit dough or homemade) to make the soup even heartier.

Freezing and Storage for Marry Me Chicken Soup

  • Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Marry Me Chicken Soup easier:

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This will allow you to cook all the ingredients together in one pot.
  • Immersion Blender: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup for a smoother, creamier texture (optional).
  • Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is helpful for cutting the chicken and vegetables efficiently.
  • Ladle: A ladle makes serving the soup easier and less messy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Marry Me Chicken Soup

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly and add more flavor to the soup.
  2. Can I make this soup without cream?
    Yes, you can substitute the cream with more milk or a dairy-free option like coconut cream for a lighter version.
  3. Can I use frozen chicken?
    It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking, but you can cook it from frozen if necessary, just allow extra cooking time.
  4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
    Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  5. How do I know when the soup is done?
    The soup is done when the chicken is cooked through and shredded, and the soup has reached a creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best qualities of a hearty meal: rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Tender chicken simmered in a savory broth, with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, creates a soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a cold evening or a dish that will impress at a family gathering, this soup is sure to deliver.

The creamy texture and savory depth of flavor make each spoonful feel like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you feeling satisfied and content, and it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Serve it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or just enjoy it on its own. This Marry Me Chicken Soup will win over everyone who tries it—and they might just ask for the recipe!

I’d love to see how your Marry Me Chicken Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy cooking and sharing this special dish!