There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that can warm both your body and soul. This Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup: Perfect for Dinner is one of those recipes that will make your loved ones fall for you all over again—or at least fall in love with your cooking! Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a luscious creamy broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

The name “Marry Me Chicken” is often used for dishes so irresistible that they might just earn you a marriage proposal. This soup version lives up to the hype with its creamy richness and complex flavors, while still being simple enough for anyone to prepare. It’s a guaranteed hit for date nights, family dinners, or even a cozy night alone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this heartwarming dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1 teaspoon
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs	1-1½ lbs (diced into 1-inch pieces)
Italian Seasoning	2 teaspoons (divided)
Salt and pepper	To taste
Carrots, diced	½ cup
Celery, diced	½ cup
Onions, diced	½ cup
Sun-dried tomatoes, diced	¼ cup
Garlic, minced	3 cloves

For the Broth and Thickening

Ingredient	Quantity
Flour	¼ cup
Tomato paste (optional)	2 tablespoons
Chicken broth	6-8 cups (start with 6 cups)

Final Additions

Ingredient	Quantity
Pasta (Italian small shells)	6 oz
Heavy whipping cream	1 cup
Parmesan Reggiano, grated	½-1 cup
Fresh spinach	2½-3 cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced chicken, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic.
• Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

3. Add the Flour

• Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables, stirring well to coat them.
• If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly to combine.

4. Add the Broth

• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Use a spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the surface.

Simmering for Perfection

5. Bring to a Boil

• Increase the heat and bring the soup to a rolling boil.
• Add the pasta, the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper to taste.

6. Simmer Until Tender

• Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
• This step ensures the chicken is cooked through, the pasta becomes tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Adding Creamy Goodness

7. Stir in the Cream and Cheese

• Open the pot and reduce the heat to low.
• Add the heavy whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until fully incorporated.

8. Add the Spinach

• Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the soup. This should only take about 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

9. Serve Warm

• Ladle the rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a bit of chicken, pasta, and spinach.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for an added touch.

10. Pair It With

This soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further:

• Crusty garlic bread for dipping.
• A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, Parmesan, and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Pasta Options: If you can’t find small shells, try using ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni.
• Customize the Texture: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or increase the amount of flour used.
• Watch the Salt: The Parmesan and chicken broth add saltiness, so taste the soup before adding more salt.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	35g
Total Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g

FAQs About Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

1. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, boneless, skinless turkey or even shrimp can work as substitutes for chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half, coconut milk, or even evaporated milk for a lighter option.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and pasta to create a gluten-free version.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when reheated. Add freshly cooked pasta when serving.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

6. What if I don’t have Parmesan Reggiano?

You can use Pecorino Romano or even shredded mozzarella as alternatives.

Conclusion: A Dinner to Remember

This Rich and Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup: Perfect for Dinner is the ultimate comfort food that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. With its creamy broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that brings people together and leaves them asking for seconds.

So why not whip up a pot tonight? Your loved ones—and your taste buds—will thank you.

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