Marry Me Chicken Soup

This creamy and comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup has become my go-to comfort food for chilly evenings. It combines rich flavors and fresh ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious yet easy enough for any weeknight. The balance of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, savory herbs, and creamy parmesan makes it unforgettable.

This recipe first came to my table on a cold evening when I wanted something cozy yet special. Since then, it has turned into a repeat favorite whenever I crave a warm and hearty meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: provides a flavorful base and helps soften the aromatics
• Butter: enhances richness and smooths out the flavors
• Medium onion chopped: builds a sweet and savory foundation
• Garlic minced: adds a punch of aromatic depth
• Tomato paste double concentrated: gives concentrated tomato flavor and a lovely color
• Sun-dried tomatoes: introduce a sweet tang and chewy texture, look for ones packed in oil for more flavor
• Italian seasoning: a classic herb blend that complements the chicken and tomatoes
• Dried oregano: adds earthiness and ties in with the Italian theme
• Crushed red pepper flakes optional: for a gentle heat if you like a little kick
• Dry white wine: helps deglaze the pot and brings delicate acidity
• Chicken broth: the soul of the soup, choose low sodium for better control over seasoning
• Cooked rotisserie chicken: easy shortcut for tender protein with great flavor
• Uncooked rotini or fusilli pasta: these shapes hold the broth well, fresh pasta can work too
• Heavy cream: creates the creamy and indulgent texture
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: melts into the soup giving sharp and savory notes
• Fresh baby spinach packed: adds fresh greens and vibrant color
• Fresh basil torn or sliced: provides a bright herbal finish
• Salt and pepper to taste: essential for balancing all the flavors

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add olive oil, butter, and chopped onion to a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook for 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step is important to build a flavorful base.

Add Garlic and Flavorings:

Add minced garlic, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and cook everything together for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant and the tomato paste slightly darkens.

Deglaze with Wine:

Pour in the dry white wine. Stir to incorporate the tomato and herb mixture, and let the wine bubble for one to two minutes. This step lifts the caramelized bits from the pan and adds depth to the soup.

Add Broth and Pasta:

Increase heat to high and add chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta, reduce heat to a simmer, cover with the lid slightly ajar, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Finish with Cream and Chicken:

Stir in the heavy cream and the shredded rotisserie chicken. Cook for another four to five minutes letting the pasta become tender and the chicken warm through.

Add Cheese and Greens:

Turn off the heat. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese, the packed baby spinach, and torn fresh basil. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Give a final stir and serve once the spinach has wilted. Top each bowl with extra parmesan for serving.

This soup was the first recipe I made to get my partner to propose, so it has a special place in my heart beyond just taste.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the pasta, it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe to avoid sogginess. Reheat gently on low with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes try roasted red peppers for a different but complementary sweetness. Use gluten-free pasta to keep it gluten-free – just watch cooking time according to the package. Swap heavy cream for half and half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option, though the texture will be less rich.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or a garlic baguette to soak up every bit of the rich broth. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. A glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors well and enhances the meal.

This soup balances indulgence with fresh, vibrant flavors to make your weeknight dinner feel special and satisfying.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but will provide a milder flavor and more liquid. Sun-dried tomatoes offer concentrated taste that enhances the soup.

→ What pasta works best in this dish?

Short pasta like rotini or fusilli hold sauce well and maintain texture during simmering.

→ Is it possible to make this soup without wine?

Yes, substituting the white wine with extra broth or a splash of vinegar keeps the depth of flavor intact.

→ Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but storing leftovers in the fridge for up to two days is fine. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

→ What cheese substitutes work well besides parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used as alternatives to parmesan for a similar salty, nutty finish.