Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Soup
What is Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, rich broth, and delightful pasta—it's like a big hug in a bowl. Creamy and bursting with flavor, this soup transforms a few simple ingredients into a meal that feels luxurious. Perfect for chilly nights or when you want to impress someone special, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even a lifelong commitment!).
The story behind the name
The whimsical name Marry Me Chicken Soup originated from a popular dish that supposedly won over hearts with its deliciousness. As the story goes, anyone who tasted the savory creation would be so enamored they’d propose marriage. It’s a fun and relatable narrative that reflects our love for food and how it can evoke strong emotions and connections (Ever experienced that after a great meal?).
Why homemade soup is a game changer
There’s nothing quite like homemade soup. It not only fills your kitchen with enticing aromas, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and enhancing flavors. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, homemade meals tend to be more nutritious than processed alternatives, making your Marry Me Chicken Soup not just a delicious choice, but a healthy one too. Wouldn’t you agree that taking just a little time to prepare your meal can yield far greater satisfaction? For step-by-step instructions on making this incredible soup, check out our full recipe!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Essential ingredients for a heartwarming bowl
Creating the perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup starts with a selection of fresh and hearty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Use 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender bites.
- Aromatics: A medium yellow onion and three cloves of garlic are essential for flavor.
- Seasoning: Kosher salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes add depth.
- Tomatoes: Include ½ cup of julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste for richness.
- Broth: A base of 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth brings everything together.
- Pasta and Greens: Add 8 ounces of medium pasta shells and 5 ounces of baby spinach for texture and nutrients.
- Cream: Lastly, stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream and ½ ounce of Parmesan cheese for that luxurious finish.
Find more inspiration for hearty soups at Bon Appétit.
Substitutions for dietary preferences
If you have specific dietary preferences, there are several substitutions you can make without sacrificing flavor:
- Chicken: Swap with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Cream: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt for a lighter take.
- Pasta: Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can easily replace conventional options.
- Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be a great alternative for the greens.
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile, ensuring everyone can enjoy its comforting goodness!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Soup
Creating the delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup is a journey that begins with a few essential steps. This hearty delight combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into the preparations!
Prepare the chicken
Start by cutting 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re planning to impress someone special, this step is crucial—season the chicken generously with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This helps to draw out the natural flavors and ensures your chicken is fabulously tasty. Set it aside while you heat up the pot.
Sauté the aromatics
In your trusty Dutch oven or large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. As the butter begins to bubble, add in the seasoned chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes until browning occurs on both sides, then transfer it to a plate. This method locks in juiciness and flavor! In the same pot, toss in 1 medium yellow onion, diced, along with 3 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes. The aromas will fill your kitchen, setting a welcoming mood.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste
Now, it's time for the stars of the show—½ cup of julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir them into the onion mixture, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the paste darkens slightly in color. This richness, combined with the sweetness of the onions, is what makes your Marry Me Chicken Soup utterly irresistible.
Combine broth and spices
Next up, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and, for those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring this flavorful concoction to a boil. The broth will create a wonderful depth of flavor, acting as the perfect base for the soup.
Cook the pasta
Stir in 8 ounces of dried medium pasta shells, reducing the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta reaches al dente perfection—about 10 to 12 minutes. This step is essential for a well-rounded texture; you want the pasta to be firm yet tender to perfectly soak up the flavors.
Return the chicken and finish with cream and spinach
Finally, bring back your hero—the chicken—and any juices accumulated on the plate. Add in 5 ounces of baby spinach, ¾ cup of heavy cream, and ½ ounce of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the spinach wilts and the chicken warms through, about 2 minutes. Right before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top will elevate your presentation beautifully, leaving everyone eager for a taste.
And there you have it—your Marry Me Chicken Soup is ready to warm your heart and delight your taste buds! If you're looking for more wonderful recipes and inspiration, check out the Food Network or Bon Appétit for more culinary adventures!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Soup
When it comes to Marry Me Chicken Soup, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful variations to consider:
Creamy Vegan Version
Swap out the chicken for hearty chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms to create a satisfying vegan option. Use coconut milk or a cashew cream for that creamy texture without dairy. You’ll still enjoy a comforting bowl while staying plant-based!
Spice It Up with Different Herbs
Experiment by adding your favorite herbs like basil, dill, or rosemary for a fresh twist. These fragrant additions can elevate the flavor profile of your Marry Me Chicken Soup, making each bowl unique and delicious.
Add Seasonal Vegetables
Take advantage of the season’s bounty! Feel free to throw in diced carrots, zucchini, or any leafy greens, making your soup not just heartwarming, but also colorful and nutrient-packed.
Make sure to check out seasonal produce guides for inspiration on what to include! With these simple changes, your Marry Me Chicken Soup can always feel new and exciting. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Chicken Soup
How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency
For a delightfully creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup, gradually incorporate the heavy cream towards the end of cooking. If the soup gets too thick, just add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to thin it out. Remember to stir often so everything melds beautifully.
Storing Leftovers Tips
When you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, add a bit of broth if it thickens too much.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To elevate the flavors in your Marry Me Chicken Soup, try adding a dash of paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add a refreshing touch. Explore more variations by incorporating veggies such as carrots or celery according to your taste!
Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Pairing with bread or rolls
Elevate your Marry Me Chicken Soup experience by pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. Whether you opt for a classic sourdough or buttery garlic knots, the right bread can soak up every delightful drop of the soup, creating a satisfying meal. Not only will it enhance the flavor, but it will also add a lovely texture contrast.
Adding garnishes for a fancy touch
Garnishing can elevate your soup from comforting to gourmet! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also awakens the flavors. For a creamy finish, consider a drizzle of extra heavy cream or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. These little touches can impress your dinner guests or just make your meal feel a bit more special.
Serving as a hearty main or light starter
While Marry Me Chicken Soup shines as a hearty main dish, it can easily double as a lighter starter, especially when serving guests. Present small bowls as an appetizer or enjoy a generous scoop as an uncomplicated, filling meal. Either way, this soup is designed to delight and satisfy, no matter how you choose to serve it!
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Preparation Time:
Getting ready to whip up your delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup only takes about 10 minutes. This includes chopping your veg and seasoning your chicken, so take your time to enjoy the process!
Cooking Time:
Let the magic happen! Cooking your soup will take approximately 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s just right for sharing.
Total Time:
In just 55 minutes, you’ll have a hearty pot of Marry Me Chicken Soup ready to serve. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something filling yet uncomplicated.
For a deeper dive into similar recipes, check out this Chicken Soup History for an interesting take on a classic comfort food!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Calories per Serving
Each serving of Marry Me Chicken Soup contains approximately 360 calories, making it a hearty yet nutritious option for your dinner table!
Key Nutrients
This delicious soup is not just filling—it's packed with essential nutrients:
- Protein: Chicken and Parmesan provide a protein boost.
- Vitamins A & C: Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes contribute vitamins that support immune health.
- Calcium: Heavy cream and cheese add a dairy component, boosting calcium intake.
Dietary Considerations
If you’re mindful of dietary restrictions, Marry Me Chicken Soup can be adapted!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a satisfying alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Lower Calorie: You can reduce the heavy cream and use a low-fat alternative for a lighter version.
For more nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA Dietary Guidelines or Nutritional Facts for a deeper understanding of the ingredients!
Enjoy this comforting soup that not only warms your heart but also nourishes your body!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken in your Marry Me Chicken Soup. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. If you're short on time, you can cook the frozen chicken directly in the soup; just remember to increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What can I add for extra nutrition?
There are plenty of ways to amp up the nutrition in your Marry Me Chicken Soup! Consider adding:
- Chopped carrots or celery for fiber and vitamins.
- Legumes like chickpeas or lentils for added protein.
- Kale or Swiss chard as a delicious alternative to spinach.
- Quinoa or farro for whole grains that’ll keep you full.
These additions not only increase nutritional value but also bring exciting flavors and textures!
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Storing your Marry Me Chicken Soup is simple! Place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your delicious soup anytime!
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Soup
Recap of the soup's appeal
Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only comforting and delicious, but it’s also packed with flavors that draw everyone in. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich cream creates a culinary hug in a bowl that you won't soon forget.
Encouragement to try the recipe
If you haven’t yet made this soul-nurturing recipe, I encourage you to dive in! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or to impress that special someone. Trust me; their heart will truly melt, and so will yours.
Invitation to share personal stories and variations
We'd love to hear about your experience with Marry Me Chicken Soup! Have you added your own twist or secret ingredient? Share your personal stories, tips, and variations in the comments below. Let’s swap ideas and inspire each other on our cooking adventures!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided, plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more as needed
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes julienne or thinly sliced, drained if oil-packed (2 ½ ounces)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
- 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells (about 2 ¾ cups)
- 5 ounces baby spinach (5 packed cups)
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 ounce grated Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup), plus more for serving
Instructions
- Cut 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season all over with 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt.
- Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Transfer the chicken to a plate with a slotted spoon.
- Add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pot, until the onion is softened and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in ½ cup julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook, stirring often, until the tomato paste is slightly darkened in color, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 pinch red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Add 5 ounces baby spinach, ¾ cup heavy cream, and ½ ounce grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring often, until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Taste and season with more kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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