Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, luscious soup to warm your soul, look no further than the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe. This dish will quickly become a favorite with its tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, dreamy broth that wraps you in a big, flavorful hug. It’s not only delicious but deceptively simple to make, delivering layers of flavor that make every spoonful a cozy experience you’ll want to share and savor on any chilly day.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the fragrant garlic to the creamy cheeses, every element shines and elevates the soup into something truly sensational.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Creates a flavorful base for sautéing and adds a subtle richness.
• ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth that enhances the soup’s complexity.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic punch that lifts the entire dish.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, drained and chopped: Introduces a tangy, sweet contrast that brightens the broth.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens flavor and enriches the broth with a touch of caramelized umami.
• 7 cups chicken broth: The hearty foundation of the soup; opt for low-sodium to control seasoning perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons salt, more to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Balances the creamy richness with a gentle bite.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses the soup with herby warmth and a classic Mediterranean touch.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Adds a mild kick to keep things interesting; adjust depending on your heat preference.
• 12 oz gluten-free shell pasta: The perfect shape for capturing the creamy broth in every spoonful.
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for tender, flavorful protein.
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped: Keeps the soup vibrant and fresh, adding important greens.
• ¾ cup half & half: Creates the silky, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
• 1 package Boursin cheese (about 4 oz): Melts perfectly to deliver a rich, herby creaminess.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds that nutty, salty kick and melts beautifully into the broth.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until the onion softens and the mixture releases a heavenly aroma. This foundational step builds the flavor base you’ll love in every bite.

Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Let the mixture cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly, which deepens the overall flavor and gives the broth a lovely richness and color.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings

Pour the chicken broth into your pot, then add the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil so that all those beautiful herbs and spices have time to meld into a cozy, fragrant base.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the gluten-free shell pasta directly into the boiling broth. Cook it just until al dente, since it will continue to soften when we add the remaining ingredients. This step ensures perfectly tender pasta that holds the creamy broth well.

Step 5: Incorporate Chicken, Spinach, and Creamy Ingredients

Turn down the heat to low, then add the shredded cooked chicken, chopped fresh spinach, half & half, Boursin cheese, and part of the Parmesan cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly to allow the cheeses to melt and create that signature creamy consistency that makes the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe so memorable.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Once everything is melted together and the soup is piping hot, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a fresh, colorful finish.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your soup brings an extra element of appeal and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the cheesy experience, while a pinch of crushed red pepper adds a subtle heat. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish with their vibrant aroma and color.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides such as crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. Garlic bread or a warm focaccia are fantastic for dipping and soaking up every creamy, flavorful drop. For a lighter option, serve alongside a chopped cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a squeeze of lemon.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this soup for company or to make a meal feel special, try serving it in small, colorful bowls or even hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a fun fall twist. Layer with a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto on top to create contrast and visual interest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and chill promptly to keep it fresh. You’ll find the flavors taste even more developed the next day!

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, which makes it a perfect meal prep option. Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it into a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When freezing, consider leaving the pasta out and adding fresh pasta upon reheating to preserve texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat to prevent curdling of the dairy. Stir often until heated through. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or half & half to loosen it back up to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While gluten-free shells are recommended for their shape and ability to capture broth, you can swap in any small pasta like ditalini or orzo. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Is there a substitute for Boursin cheese?

If you don’t have Boursin cheese, cream cheese combined with garlic and herbs can mimic its rich, tangy flavor. Adding some fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley will help replicate that delicious herby note.

Can this soup be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or your favorite dairy-free cream alternative instead of half & half, and choose a dairy-free cheese substitute or simply omit the cheeses for a lighter yet still flavorful soup.

How spicy is the soup?

The soup has a mild heat from the crushed red pepper, but it’s very gentle and can be adjusted to your taste. Omit or reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version perfect for kids or spice-sensitive palates.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes won’t provide quite the same concentrated tang and sweetness as sun-dried tomatoes. If using fresh, you might want to roast them first to deepen their flavor or add a splash of tomato paste to compensate.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe is truly a treasure in the kitchen—easy to pull together yet bursting with incredible flavor and cozy comfort. Whether you’re craving a meal to soothe a chilly evening or simply want to impress your family with your soup-making skills, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll reach for the bowl again and again.

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