This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a cozy bowl full of love! With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and lots of herbs, it’s like a warm hug in a dish. Perfect for any night you want to impress!
I often whip this up when I’m feeling like I need some extra TLC. Just stir, simmer, and enjoy the deliciousness—trust me, it’s hard not to fall in love with it! ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless breasts work too, but you might want to add a bit more olive oil.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for their sweetness, but white or red onions can be used as substitutes if you have them on hand.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it may change the flavor a bit.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If it’s not available, you can substitute with kale or frozen spinach (thaw and drain before adding).
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Super Tender?
The key to tender chicken is not overcooking it. Browning the chicken lightly on each side before adding the broth helps lock in moisture. After simmering, don’t skip the step of shredding the chicken; it allows for better mixing with the soup.
- Cook the chicken just until it’s lightly browned, about 3 minutes per side.
- When simmering with the broth, keep the heat on medium-low. This way, the chicken cooks through gently and stays tender.
What’s the Best Way to Add Flavor?
Fresh herbs and spices make a big difference! Sautéing the onions and spices together releases their flavors. Stir them for just a minute to get the full aromatic effect before adding other ingredients.
- Don’t rush the sauté step; it’s vital for building a deep flavor.
- Feel free to adjust spices and add your favorite herbs like thyme or basil if you’d like!
Enjoy making this comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup! It’s bound to impress anyone you serve it to.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheerful soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. Including simmering time, you’ll have it ready in about 45 minutes, making it a quick and cozy meal for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This is where the flavor starts!
2. Add the Flavors:
Now it’s time to add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir everything together for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—you’ll love the aroma!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add your chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Lightly brown them on each side for about 3 minutes. This will help keep the chicken juicy while it cooks.
4. Bring in the Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juices, along with the halved or quartered baby potatoes. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
After 20-25 minutes, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and then return it to the soup. This makes the chicken easier to enjoy in each bite!
6. Cream it Up and Add Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream and the fresh chopped spinach. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. Creamy goodness is on the way!
7. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and black pepper to your liking. Then ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Serve hot, perhaps with some crusty bread for dipping. This soup is a delicious treat that’s sure to warm your heart!
Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of spice makes this Marry Me Chicken Soup a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll want to thaw the chicken first to ensure it cooks evenly. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag until thawed.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream if it looks too thick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For dairy-free, try coconut milk or a cashew cream, though these may alter the flavor slightly. Just make sure to add it towards the end of cooking for the best texture!
