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Looking for a comforting, rich, and creamy soup that will have everyone asking for the recipe? Marry Me Chicken Soup is the perfect choice. This hearty, flavorful dish is packed with tender chicken, savory broth, and a delicious blend of herbs and spices. The addition of cream and Parmesan cheese gives it a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or serving it to friends and family, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. The name “Marry Me Chicken Soup” says it all – it’s so good that you might just want to propose to the cook after tasting it! Easy to make and full of rich, savory flavors, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make time and time again, whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or for a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

This soup has a velvety smooth texture from the cream and Parmesan, making it both comforting and indulgent.

2. Hearty and Filling

Packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a deliciously thick broth, this soup is perfect for filling you up without feeling heavy.

3. Quick and Easy

With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this soup can be on the table in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

4. Versatile

You can adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your liking, adding more vegetables, spice, or even swapping the chicken for another protein.

5. Loved by All

From kids to adults, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of comforting.

Ingredients

Chicken breast or thighs
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Dried thyme
Dried oregano
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Swap the Protein: Use rotisserie chicken or shredded turkey if you want to save time. You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a more tender and juicy alternative.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add beans or tofu for a plant-based option.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as potatoes, spinach, or zucchini to make it even heartier.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
Lighter Version: For a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter milk option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Shred the chicken once it’s cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Once the soup has simmered, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Combine

Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir to incorporate the chicken into the soup, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook the Chicken First: Cooking the chicken in the pot first gives it a chance to brown, adding more depth of flavor to the soup.
Don’t Skip the Parmesan: The Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.
Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, allow it to simmer longer, or add more cream. If you like it lighter, simply add more broth.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary.

How to Serve

Marry Me Chicken Soup is best served warm with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. It’s the kind of soup that’s perfect for cozying up on a cold evening, or for serving guests at a casual dinner gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup will continue to thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little more broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this soup. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

4. Can I use heavy cream alternatives?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.

5. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, spinach, or any other veggies you love.

7. How can I thicken the soup?

If you like a thicker soup, simply simmer it longer or add more cream and Parmesan cheese.

8. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.

9. Can I make this soup with a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, then add the broth and seasonings. Once the soup is done, add the cream and Parmesan cheese.

10. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will add even more flavor to the soup.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or preparing it in advance for a busy week, this soup will become a favorite in your recipe collection. Warm up with a bowl of this heartwarming soup, and you’ll see why everyone loves it. It’s a dish so good, it might just have you saying, “I do!”