There’s something magical about cooking a hearty soup on a chilly day, and let me tell you, this Marry Me Chicken Soup has a special story behind it. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy dinner party with friends, where the soup became the talk of the evening—everyone declared that if they weren’t married already, they’d want to be after tasting it! It’s creamy, rich, and absolutely comforting. Whenever I make it, I think about those giggles and the warmth of friendship.
What sets this soup apart is not just its delightful taste but the love and care that goes into it. Trust me; it feels like a hug in a bowl! Whether you’re impressing that special someone or just treating yourself, this soup promises to bring warmth to your kitchen and heart.
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the show! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease and tenderness. It cooks up beautifully and soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a lovely sweetness to the base. I love using yellow onions for their balanced flavor.
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the fragrant hero! Fresh minced garlic gives this soup the aromatic kick that intertwines with all the other ingredients.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: For a comforting soup, I prefer using low-sodium chicken broth. It allows me to control the saltiness while still providing a rich flavor.
Cream: This makes the soup decadent and silky. I usually go for heavy cream, but half-and-half works well if you want something slightly lighter.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach brightens the dish and adds a nutritious twist! You can also use kale if you’re feeling adventurous.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous grating of freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely umami flavor that enhances every sip of this soup.
Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme, Italian seasoning, and black pepper round it all out and elevate the dish. You can also add a bit of red pepper flakes if you want a gentle kick!
Is Marry Me Chicken Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This soup is loaded with wholesome ingredients that not only satisfy the soul but also provide nutrition.
Chicken Breast: Packed with lean protein, it supports muscle strength and keeps you feeling full longer. Plus, it’s low in fat!
Spinach: This leafy green is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and folate. It’s a nutrient powerhouse that boosts overall health.
Garlic: There’s link between garlic and improved heart health due to its cholesterol-lowering effects. It’s also believed to have immune-boosting properties.
Of course, the creaminess of this soup does mean it’s a bit richer, so if you’re watching calories or saturated fats, you could consider using lighter cream or less cheese. But every spoonful is worth it; indulging once in a while is part of the joy of cooking!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (serves about 4)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is covered.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined.
7. Finally, add the spinach and let it wilt in the hot soup for a couple of minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve warm, and don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for that final touch!
Soup-er Serving Suggestions!
To elevate this experience, pair your Marry Me Chicken Soup with some crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad for balance. It’s the perfect companion for cozy evenings or even a romantic dinner at home. You could also swap spinach for any leafy green you prefer or add in your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas to make it your own!
Lastly, if you make this soup, I would absolutely love to hear how it turns out. This recipe holds a soft spot in my heart, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy its warm embrace! Cook it up, share it, and maybe just prepare for a few love declarations along the way!
