Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. This soup features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of fresh basil, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. It’s not just comforting; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight meals to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly.
• Flavorful Ingredients – The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates a burst of flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Meal Option – Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Comforting and Hearty – The addition of rotini pasta makes this soup filling and satisfying, ideal for chilly days.
• Family-Friendly – This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and enhance the flavors of your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – A must-have for simmering the soup ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Chef’s knife – Provides precision when chopping vegetables, enhancing the overall presentation of your soup.

Ingredients

For this delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound shredded chicken
• 3-4 ounce sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 3 ounce tomato paste
• 4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup basil (chopped)
• 2 cup rotini pasta (dry)
• 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• salt & pepper to taste
• parmesan for garnish

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onions, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil so that everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and garlic over medium heat. Cook until they are soft and beginning to brown. Then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil.

Step 3: Combine with Tomato Paste

Add in the tomato paste to the pot. Stir it into the mixture and let it cook for about one minute. Next, add in the shredded chicken followed by pouring in the chicken broth.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

Bring the broth to a boil before lowering it to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add in the dry rotini pasta. Follow package instructions for cooking time; typically around 10-12 minutes should suffice.

Step 6: Add Creamy Finish

Once your pasta is cooked through, turn off the heat. Stir in heavy cream gently and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese. It’s now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or rustic country bread can enhance the meal. The crusty texture is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Add a Side Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing each bowl with extra chopped basil or parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread is an excellent side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup, adding crunch and flavor to every bite.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide grated parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on top of their soup. This adds a savory depth that many will love.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors of the soup, making it even more refreshing and enjoyable.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup

To achieve a truly exceptional Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips. They’ll make your dish even more delightful!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will make a significant difference in flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it simmers and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook rotini pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when added to the soup.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld all the flavors together beautifully.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Complement your Marry Me Chicken Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender; it’s a great way to add some greens.

2. Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the soup’s texture.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices create a filling option alongside your chicken soup.

5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for an easy yet flavorful starter.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that balances well with savory flavors in the soup.

7. Crispy Kale Chips – Baked kale leaves seasoned lightly add crunch and are an excellent healthy snack alongside the meal.

8. Cornbread Muffins – Soft cornbread muffins provide a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with creamy soups like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Chicken Soup can be delightful, but there are common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping ingredient prep – Not prepping your ingredients can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Take time to chop and measure everything before you start cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the rotini pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Under-seasoning your soup may lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning accordingly.
• Using cold broth – Adding cold chicken broth can lower the cooking temperature. Always use broth at room temperature or warm to ensure a consistent cook.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow sufficient time for all ingredients to meld together.
• Forgetting garnishes – Missing out on garnishes like parmesan can diminish presentation and taste. Always add that final touch before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Marry Me Chicken Soup.

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup special?

Marry Me Chicken Soup stands out due to its creamy texture and rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, making it both comforting and delicious.

Can I customize the ingredients in Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or carrots, or use different types of pasta based on your preference.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Soup healthier?

To make this soup healthier, consider using low-fat cream or substituting heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Pair this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy base combined with tender chicken makes it comforting during colder months while being light enough for warmer days. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding your favorite ingredients!