Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Soup

Introduction about Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Have you ever tasted a dish so comforting that it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? Well, let me introduce you to Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl. This sumptuous dish is not just a soup; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings love and warmth to your dining table. Imagine sipping a creamy, delectable soup filled with tender chicken and the delightful flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. Doesn’t that sound enticing?

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is sure to become a staple in your home. Its creamy texture and rich flavors create a symphony of taste that elevates comfort food to a new level. You might just find yourself planning romantic dinners or cozy family gatherings around this dish!

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe offers a special touch that resonates with everyone. Its blend of savory flavors and creamy goodness will have your loved ones asking for seconds, and you might even have them thinking about marriage after this meal! So let’s dive into the world of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl.

Key Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Why you’ll love this recipe

When it comes to choosing a soup that can warm both hearts and stomachs, Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl checks all the boxes. Here’s why you’ll adore this delightful recipe:

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Quick Cooking Time: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for meals on the go.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: It’s customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

What makes it stand out

What sets Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl apart is its unique blend of flavors and the care that goes into every spoonful. It’s not just another chicken soup; it’s an experience. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet and tangy bite, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious richness that transforms a simple soup into a gourmet dish.

Seasonally, this soup works wonders in the fall and winter when cozy flavors are in high demand. It’s healing, warming, and filling—a bowl of love to keep you satisfied on chilly nights. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can tweak it to cater to your taste buds or dietary needs. Yes, this soup is as flexible as it is delicious!

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Complete ingredient list with measurements

Here’s the complete list of ingredients that you’ll need to make your own bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl:

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienne-cut, packed in oil with herbs)
• 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 32 oz (2 packages) chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 tsp fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (or more if you like heat)
• 8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed (room temperature)
• 1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (plus more for garnish)

Substitutes and alternatives

If certain ingredients don’t fit your dietary needs or preferences, fret not! Here are some handy substitutions:

• Sun-dried tomatoes: Substitute with roasted red peppers for a similar sweetness or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Heavy whipping cream: Use coconut cream or almond milk for a lighter version.
• Chicken broth: Swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Cream cheese: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor and creamy texture, though it will alter the taste slightly.
• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta can replace regular pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Fresh basil: Dried basil can substitute fresh—use about 1 tsp for every tablespoon of fresh.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl – Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1 – Prep your workspace and ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to have everything organized. Gather all your ingredients and tools:

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chopping board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

This way, you can smoothly transition from one step to another without any interruptions.

Step 2 – Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped yellow onion.

• Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

You’ll know you’re on the right track when the kitchen starts smelling amazing!

Step 3 – Build the base

Next, stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and the julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes. This step is crucial for deepening the flavor of your soup.

• Cook for 2 minutes, continually stirring. The tomato paste should darken slightly, which is a great sign that it’s ready for the next phase.

Step 4 – Simmer the broth

Pour in 32 oz (2 packages) of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream.

• Follow this by adding 4 teaspoons of fresh basil, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 ½ teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

• Let it simmer for 12 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Step 5 – Cook the pasta

Now it’s time for the pasta! Add 8 oz of uncooked medium shell pasta to the pot.

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be perfectly tender by the end of this step.

Step 6 – Make it creamy & delicious

Lower the heat to low, and it’s time to make the soup creamy and hearty.

• Stir in 3 cups of freshly chopped baby spinach, 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 8 oz of cubed cream cheese, and 1 ½ oz of finely shredded Parmesan cheese.

• Stir often for 5 minutes, allowing the cheeses to melt into the soup and the chicken to warm through. The result should be a thick and creamy texture!

Step 7 – Adjust the seasoning

At this point, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• If you desire more heat, feel free to sprinkle in additional crushed red pepper. This is your chance to customize the flavor to your liking!

Step 8 – Serve & enjoy

Now comes the best part! Ladle the soup into bowls, and don’t hold back on the garnishes.

• Add extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and a bit of crushed red pepper flakes for that wow factor.

Serve immediately with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side. Enjoy the warm embrace of your homemade Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl!

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Best occasions to serve this dish

Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is perfect for various occasions:

• Family Dinners: A wonderful way to gather everyone around the table.
• Date Nights: Impress your partner with a cozy, romantic meal.
• Comfort Food Cravings: Perfect for those days when you need a little extra warmth and comfort.
• Game Days: Serve it as a hearty appetizer during your game day parties.
• Winter Celebrations: Ideal for cold-weather holidays, bringing warmth and cheer to your festivities.

What to serve with it

Pair your delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all the flavors.
• Green Salad: A light side with a zesty dressing to balance the richness.
• Garlic Bread: An indulgent option that complements the soup wonderfully.
• Wine: A full-bodied white wine or even a light red can enhance the meal.
• Crackers: Serve alongside for an added crunch.

Storing Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl Properly

Best storage practices

To keep your Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl fresh, it’s important to store it correctly:

• In the fridge: Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• In the freezer: Divide into smaller portions in freezer-safe containers. The soup will last for 3-4 months frozen.

Reheating and freezing tips

When it comes time to enjoy the leftovers, here are some tips:

• Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• What to avoid: Avoid reheating too quickly, as the soup can separate. Low and slow is the way to go!

Tips & Tricks for Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Mistakes to avoid

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly, keep an eye out for common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the pasta: Keep track of the cooking time to ensure your pasta isn’t mushy.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste throughout the cooking process and adjust accordingly.
• Skipping the aromatics: Don’t rush the sautéing step; this builds depth in flavor.

Extra tips for better results

• Fresh herbs: Always opt for fresh basil when possible; it elevates the soup’s flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Creaminess factor: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer or add more cream cheese.

Recipe Variations of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Creative twists

Looking to shake things up? Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Nutty addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
• Seasonal flavors: In fall, add in diced butternut squash or pumpkin for a seasonal twist.

Dietary adjustments

If you have dietary restrictions, here’s how to cater to those needs:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Dairy-free: Swap cream and cream cheese with cashew cream or coconut milk.
• Vegan: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use plant-based cream alternatives.

Conclusion about Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

In summary, Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is a delightful recipe packed with flavors that warm your soul. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and has the comfort of a fresh meal made right at home. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this soup is perfect for any occasion.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You might just find yourself falling in love with it and excited to share it with friends and family. Embrace the rich creamy goodness and warmth that this dish offers, and who knows? You may just end up marrying it after your first spoonful!

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

What if it doesn’t turn out right?

If you find your soup too thick, add a little more broth or cream to loosen it up. If it’s lacking flavor, a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice can brighten it. Cooking is a learning experience, so don’t worry—adjust as needed!

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

What are the best ingredient substitutions?

If you’re missing an ingredient, you can always swap for what you have on hand. Common substitutes include using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

How long can it be stored?

In the fridge, the soup will last for about 4-5 days. If stored in the freezer, it can be kept for 3-4 months. Be sure to label it with the date in a freezer-safe container!

Can I use store-bought dough or crust?

While this recipe doesn’t call for dough, if you were to create a baked version, using store-bought dough would be perfectly acceptable and save you time.

Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?

Yes! This soup is not only kid-friendly but also packed with flavors that appeal to all ages. The creamy base and pasta make it a hit with children.

Can I make this recipe allergen-free?

Indeed! You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and iron out any allergens by selecting broth and cream that suit your dietary needs. Customize it to make it allergen-friendly!

By following this guide, you can create a beautiful and memorable meal with Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl that everyone will love. Happy cooking!