This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with juicy chicken, rich tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, it’s so tasty it might just get you a proposal!
I love how it fills the kitchen with amazing smells while cooking. It’s perfect for chilly days or any time you need a little comfort. Serve it with some crusty bread, and enjoy! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for starting any soup. It adds a light flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or even butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Onion and Garlic: They form the base of the flavor. If you’re out of onion, shallots work in a pinch. For garlic powder, use 1/8 teaspoon per clove needed.
Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap any veggies you like! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can be great additions. Canned green beans are a quick alternative if fresh ones aren’t available.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too. For a lighter option, try vegetable broth. You can also use water, just add more seasoning.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but you can replace it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use low-fat milk for a lighter soup.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Tender?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, it’s essential to add it toward the end of cooking. Here’s how:
- Use cooked, shredded chicken (like rotisserie) which heats through easily.
- Don’t overcook the chicken once it’s added; just warm it through to retain moisture.
This way, you won’t end up with tough chicken bits and will have a lovely, comforting soup!
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. A perfect meal for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until it’s translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step lays the foundation for delicious flavors.
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, chopped celery, and carrots. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies start to soften. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Spice it Up:
Add the smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), and seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute to really bring out those lovely flavors!
4. Bring in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the undrained diced tomatoes. Toss in the cubed potatoes and chopped green beans too. Stir everything together!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. You’ll want the potatoes and green beans to be tender by the time you’re finished simmering.
6. Add the Chicken:
Once the veggies are tender, gently stir in the cooked shredded chicken. This is where the soup starts to transform into a hearty meal.
7. Make it Creamy:
Slowly add the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and fresh spinach to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through. It’s all coming together!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, don’t forget to taste the soup! Add more salt and pepper if necessary. It’s your creation, after all!
9. Serve it Up:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a final touch. Serve warm, and look forward to all the compliments on your culinary skills!
Enjoy this comforting, hearty Marry Me Chicken Soup that’s loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely first. The best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight or you can thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. After thawing, shred it and add it to the soup as per the recipe instructions.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add some cooked chickpeas or lentils for protein.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just cook it and let it cool, then refrigerate. To serve, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick after cooling.
