Description
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Inspired by the popular “Marry Me” recipes, this soup brings all the creamy, comforting flavors of Marry Me Chicken into a warm, hearty bowl. Packed with sundried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s a perfect comfort dish that combines richness without being too heavy. Ideal for using leftover rotisserie chicken, this dish is easy to make and even easier to fall in love with. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy meal.
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium carrot, diced
2-3 celery stalks, diced
2 large garlic cloves, chopped
½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
1 pinch red chili flakes
1 bay leaf
¾ cup ditalini pasta
6 cups chicken stock
½ cup low-fat cream cheese
½ cup half and half
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
⅓ cup grated Parmesan
2 cups baby spinach
Salt & pepper
Directions:
1. Heat oil, sauté veggies.
2. Add garlic, tomatoes, chili flakes, cook briefly.
3. Add stock, pasta, bay leaf. Simmer 10-12 mins.
4. Stir in cream, chicken, spinach.
5. Season, serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 343
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the chopped garlic, sundried tomatoes, red chili flakes, and bay leaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the low-fat cream cheese and half and half until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
5. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, grated Parmesan, and baby spinach. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich soup is a meal in itself but is elevated with the right accompaniments. Serve it in deep bowls with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast. For garnish, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, a swirl of cream, or fresh basil leaves add visual appeal and flavor.
How-to Summary
Sauté aromatic vegetables, then bloom garlic and sundried tomatoes. Simmer stock and pasta until tender. Finish by stirring in creamy elements, cooked chicken, and spinach. Season and serve hot for a deeply comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use heavy cream instead of half and half? Yes, but it will be much richer. For a closer result, thin a small amount of heavy cream with a splash of milk.
How can I make this soup ahead of time? Prepare the soup but omit the pasta and spinach. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, cook the pasta separately, and add it with the spinach at the end.
What can I use instead of ditalini pasta? Any small pasta like orzo, small shells, or even broken spaghetti will work. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese? Full-fat Greek yogurt or mascarpone can be used. Add them off the heat at the very end to prevent curdling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb broth, so add a splash of stock or water when reheating on the stove over low heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Add it to the simmering broth and cook just until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup.
- Adding dairy on high heat: Always reduce the heat to low before adding cream cheese and half and half to prevent separation.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese is best.
- Skipping the sauté step: Properly cooking the vegetables builds a crucial flavor foundation for the entire soup.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Soup successfully translates the iconic, crave-worthy flavors of the original dish into a spoonable, comforting form. It’s a versatile recipe that is both impressive enough for guests and simple enough for a weeknight. With its creamy texture, savory depth, and hearty ingredients, this soup is truly a bowlful of comfort you’ll want to make again and again.