Marry Me Chicken Soup

Introduction

Discover a Soup That Everyone Will Fall in Love With

If you’ve been searching for that one recipe that warms your heart, fills your home with a comforting aroma, and brings everyone together at the dining table, look no further than the Marry Me Chicken Soup. Full of delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even marriage proposals. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, creamy soup that’s perfect for every occasion.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

The Basics to Get Started

– Chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless
– Chicken broth, about 4 cups
– Heavy cream, approximately 1 cup
– Grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup
– Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
– Garlic cloves, finely minced, about 4 cloves
– Onion, finely diced, 1 medium
– Crushed tomatoes, 1 cup
– Baby spinach, one handful
– Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon
– Red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time

Mise en Place is the Key

Every great soup starts with a little preparation. Begin by washing and chopping your vegetables, mincing the garlic, and pre-measuring your broth, cream, and seasonings. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and easy serving. Once your ingredients are ready, you’ll find the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Expect to spend around 15-20 minutes prepping everything.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Timely Perfection at Its Best

To cook this delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes. This includes sautéing the vegetables, cooking the chicken, and bringing all the ingredients together into a creamy, flavorful dish. The total time from start to finish should be no more than 50-55 minutes, making it a feasible option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe yields approximately 4 hearty servings, making it perfect for a small gathering or family meal.

Embark on a Culinary Journey

The Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just another recipe; it’s a celebration of rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and culinary love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or planning something special, this soup will surely impress. Try making it today—you might just fall in love with it as much as the people you share it with.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

– Begin by gathering all the ingredients required for the recipe.
– Measure and chop ingredients as instructed in the recipe for efficiency during cooking.
– Ensure all items are clean and ready for use.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

– Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
– Add a drizzle of olive oil.
– Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet.
– Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

– In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
– Add finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Prepare the Soup Base

– Pour chicken broth into the skillet and gently scrape the bottom to release any browned bits.
– Add heavy cream and stir the mixture to combine thoroughly.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back

– Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
– Ensure the chicken is submerged in the liquid.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

– Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
– Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully cook and the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Final Touches

– Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor.
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve

– Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets an equal amount of chicken and soup.
– Garnish with extra basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Adjustments for Creaminess

You can adjust the creaminess of the soup by adding more or less heavy cream based on your preference.

Note 2: Substitutions for Chicken

You may substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture or use cooked shredded chicken for convenience.

Note 3: Reheating the Soup

Reheat the soup on low heat to maintain its texture and avoid curdling the cream.

Note 4: Storage & Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice for a heartier meal.
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Cook Techniques

How to Sear the Chicken Perfectly

To sear the chicken perfectly, use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for even heat distribution. Heat the pan on medium-high heat until hot before adding the oil. Place the chicken skin-side down and don’t move it until it releases easily and forms a golden crust.

Creating a Flavorful Base

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in the same skillet where you seared your chicken. This trick allows you to incorporate all the flavors left behind from the seared chicken into the aromatic base of the soup.

Deglazing the Pan

Deglazing the pan is vital for building flavor. After sautéing the aromatics, pour in dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan for a delicious boost of flavor.

Combining Heavy Cream for Richness

Adding heavy cream is what gives the soup its rich and comforting texture. Stir it into the base after it has simmered with chicken broth to create a luscious creamy consistency.

Using Fresh Herbs

Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil right before serving to brighten the flavors without overwhelming the creamy base.

Simmering for Tender Chicken

To achieve tender chicken, lower the heat and let the soup simmer. Slow cooking at a gentle simmer allows the chicken to cook through while absorbing all the flavors from the broth and aromatics.

FAQ

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster and could dry out if overcooked. Adjust the simmering time accordingly.

What Can Be Used Instead of Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative.

How Can I Thicken the Soup?

To thicken the soup, you can make a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with cold water and stirring it into the soup. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.

Can I Freeze the Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Avoid adding fresh herbs or additional cream until reheating, as these are best added fresh after thawing.

What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Can I Add Extra Vegetables?

Absolutely, you can customize the soup with additional vegetables like spinach, kale, mushrooms, or chopped carrots for added nutrients and flavor.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is the perfect dish for anyone looking to impress with a meal that’s rich, flavorful, and heartwarming. With its creamy texture and perfect blend of savory ingredients, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving comfort food, this soup delivers an unforgettable experience.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Pair the comforting flavors of Marry Me Chicken Soup with a side of garlic butter shrimp pasta for a complete and wholesome meal.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

For a rustic inspiration, serve alongside creamy Tuscan chicken for a flavorful and rich combination.

Herbed Garlic Bread

This soup perfectly matches herbed garlic bread, ideal for dipping and complementing the creamy broth.

Roasted Vegetable Medley

Balance out the richness of the soup with a side of oven-roasted vegetables, adding freshness and texture.

Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Combine the creamy soup with a side of buttery parmesan mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food combo.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad can provide a fresh and tangy pairing to enhance the soup’s savory notes.