Introduction to Marry Me Chicken Soup
Why "Marry Me" Chicken Soup?
Have you ever had that moment when a dish is so delicious it makes you stop in your tracks? Enter Marry Me Chicken Soup, a cozy creation that has earned its name for a reason. This soup is packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness, making it hard to resist. Legend has it that anyone lucky enough to taste this delightful bowl could get an impromptu marriage proposal—hence the name.
But what truly elevates marry me chicken soup is the perfect combination of ingredients: tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach enveloped in a creamy broth. It's a heartwarming recipe that doesn’t just satisfy your hunger—it wraps you in a comforting embrace after a long day. Whether you’re curling up on the couch or whipping up a quick dinner for friends, this soup has you covered.
If you’re curious about how to create this enchanting dish, stay tuned! You'll find that its preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for both cooking novices and seasoned chefs. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get this delicious pot of love simmering!
For more cooking inspiration or tips on easily elevating everyday meals, check out Bon Appétit or Food Network.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that could practically win hearts, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Soup. This dish combines tender chicken with the warmth of a classic soup, all heightened by delightful flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this love-at-first-bite recipe:
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Feel free to mix them for added flavor and texture!
- Butter: Just 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to sauté those delicious aromatics.
- Onion and Garlic: A medium yellow onion (diced) and 3 cloves of minced garlic give the soup its rich fragrance.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: A ½ cup of julienned sun-dried tomatoes really elevates the flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: You'll need 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to keep it light but savory.
- Cream and Spinach: Finish it off with ¾ cup of heavy cream and 5 ounces of baby spinach for richness and color!
These delicious ingredients come together to create a dish that’s sure to impress. If you want more inspiration, check out this article from The Spruce Eats, which goes into great detail about the benefits of incorporating more lean proteins like chicken into your meals. Happy cooking!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Soup
Making Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful venture that promises not just delicious flavors but also a comforting dish perfect for any day. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you through the process with ease.
Prepare the chicken
Start by cutting 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend beautifully into the soup. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over the chicken to season it well. This process allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, elevating your soup’s taste.
Sauté the aromatics
In a Dutch oven or a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. The key here is patience; don’t rush it! Once the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, cooking until golden brown on both sides—approximately 4 to 6 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a plate using a slotted spoon.
Now, let’s bring some depth to our Marry Me Chicken Soup. In the same pot, toss in 1 diced medium yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Add the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir occasionally, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This aromatic base is essential for building layers of flavor.
Add the sundried tomatoes and broth
Next, stir in ½ cup of julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Allow this to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste deepens in color. This step enriches the soup with a rich, tangy profile. After this, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme along with a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you’re a fan of a little heat). Bring everything to a gentle boil, which helps develop a wonderful aroma.
Cook the pasta
Next, we need some heartiness in this soup! Stir in 8 ounces of dried medium pasta shells, reducing the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally; nobody wants pasta that’s stuck to the bottom!
Combine the chicken, spinach, cream, and cheese
Finally, return the beautifully browned chicken (with any juices) back to the pot. Add in a generous 5 ounces of baby spinach, ¾ cup of heavy cream, and ½ ounce of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring often, until the spinach wilts and the chicken gets warmed through, usually about 2 minutes. Taste your creation and season with additional kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Want to make it even more special? Serve up your Marry Me Chicken Soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top.
This flavorful, comforting soup is sure to impress, making it a perfect dish to share with family or friends. For more recipe inspiration, consider checking out The New York Times Cooking for further culinary delights!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken Soup
Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition
Transform your Marry Me Chicken Soup into a nutrition powerhouse by adding a variety of vegetables. Carrots, celery, and bell peppers not only enhance the flavor but also boost the soup’s vitamin content. For a twist, try incorporating zucchini or kale. You can toss them in with the onions and garlic to give them a chance to soften, blending beautifully with the savory broth. For more inspiration, consider checking out this vegetable benefits guide.
Use Different Pasta Shapes
Don't feel tied to medium pasta shells! Experimenting with different shapes can add a fun texture to your Marry Me Chicken Soup. Try orzo for a heartier feel, or use butterfly-shaped pasta for a whimsical twist. Each shape absorbs the delicious broth differently, so feel free to get creative. You could even opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you're looking for dietary alternatives. Embrace your inner chef and make this dish uniquely yours!
Cooking Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Making the perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup is easier than you think! Here are some essential tips to enhance your cooking experience:
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Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken thighs if you want a richer flavor. They stay tender during cooking and can elevate your soup.
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Broth Matters: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish. You can always add more salt, but it's tough to take it away if it’s too salty!
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Fresh Additions: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving for a burst of flavor.
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Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta al dente before adding it to the soup to prevent it from getting mushy.
For more insights on choosing the best chicken or enhancing flavors, check this helpful guide from Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
When it comes to enjoying your Marry Me Chicken Soup, the right sides can elevate the experience. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:
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Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. It’s perfect for sopping up the rich, creamy broth.
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Salad Inspiration: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup.
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Herb Twist: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an added burst of flavor and a pop of color.
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Cheese Extravaganza: Don’t forget extra Parmesan cheese for serving! It adds a delightful savory note.
Sharing this cinnamon-infused soup with loved ones will definitely bring them happily to the table. Interested in more culinary tips? Check out The Spruce Eats for inspiration!
Time breakdown for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Preparation time
The prep time for Marry Me Chicken Soup is a quick and breezy 10 minutes. That’s just enough time to gather your ingredients, chop some veggies, and get everything ready for cooking. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal without the hassle.
Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped, the cooking time comes to about 45 minutes. This includes sautéing, simmering, and letting those flavors meld together beautifully. As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that’s guaranteed to make your mouth water!
Total time
Adding both preparation and cooking times, you’ll need around 55 minutes to whip up this delightful soup. It’s a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, ensuring hearty satisfaction in just under an hour.
Additional resources for your cooking journey: for more tips on meal prepping, check out the Food Network's guide.
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken Soup
When indulging in a warm bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, knowing its nutritional highlights can help you enjoy it guilt-free. Here are the key facts:
Calories
One serving of this hearty soup typically contains around 350 calories, making it a fulfilling but manageable option for lunch or dinner.
Protein
Each bowl is packed with about 30 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken and other wholesome ingredients. This nutrient is vital for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full longer.
Sodium
While a comforting dish, be mindful that it contains roughly 800 mg of sodium per serving. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth can help bring that number down without sacrificing flavor.
For more details on the benefits of sodium in moderation, check out this helpful resource. If you're interested in maximizing the protein content, consider adding legumes, as suggested in this nutrition article. Enjoy this Marry Me Chicken Soup knowing you’re nourishing your body!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great option when you're short on time or didn't plan ahead. Just remember to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through. You can add the frozen chicken directly to the pot, but cooking it thoroughly may take an additional 10-15 minutes.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for lighter alternatives, options like half-and-half, coconut cream, or even silken tofu blended until smooth work wonders in this Marry Me Chicken Soup. Each will bring a different flavor profile, so choose one that complements your taste. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream adds a delightful richness.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To give your Marry Me Chicken Soup an extra kick, try incorporating more red pepper flakes or even finely chopped jalapeños during the cooking process. You can also drizzle in some hot sauce just before serving for a flavorful punch. Adjust to your heat preference and enjoy the warmth!
For more cooking tips, check out resources like Fine Cooking and Cooking Light for inspiration.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken Soup
In the bustling world of quick meals, Marry Me Chicken Soup stands out as a comforting favorite. With rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and the ability to bring loved ones together, it's sure to make your dinner nights special. Give it a try, and enjoy the magical moments it creates!
For more delicious soup recipes, check out this great resource for inspiration! And if you're feeling adventurous, don’t forget to experiment with different veggies or proteins to make it your own.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- large pot
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs or a combination
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided, plus more as needed
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more as needed
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup julienne or thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes drained if oil-packed (2 ½ ounces)
Broth
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Pasta and Greens
- 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells about 2 ¾ cups
- 5 ounces baby spinach about 5 packed cups
Cream and Cheese
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ ounce grated Parmesan cheese about ¼ cup, plus more for serving
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cut 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces, then season all over with 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt.
- Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Transfer the chicken to a plate with a slotted spoon.
- Add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pot, until the onion is softened and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in ½ cup julienne sun-dried tomatoes and 3 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook, stirring often, until the tomato paste is slightly darkened in color, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 pinch red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in 8 ounces dried medium pasta shells. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Add 5 ounces baby spinach, ¾ cup heavy cream, and ½ ounce grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring often, until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Taste and season with more kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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