Ah, chicken soup! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I can’t think of anything more comforting than a steaming pot of chicken soup simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with that irresistible aroma. It’s the kind of food that brings friends and family together, making every gathering feel a little cozier. Now, let me tell you about my absolute favorite twist on this classic: Marry Me Chicken Soup.
Trust me, this soup has a way of making hearts flutter and taste buds dance! With tender shredded chicken, vibrant veggies, and a luscious creamy broth, it’s a dish that’s bound to impress. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply wanting to show someone you care, this soup is a must-try. Prepare to fall in love, one spoonful at a time!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Let’s gather everything you need to make this delightful soup! Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or roast your own if you’re feeling ambitious!
- 4 cups chicken broth – Homemade is best, but store-bought works wonders too. Just make sure it’s low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- 1 cup carrots, diced – Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness and texture. Cut them small so they cook evenly!
- 1 cup celery, diced – This adds a lovely crunch and flavor. Make sure they’re chopped nicely!
- 1 cup onion, chopped – Onions are the base of flavor here, so don’t skimp! Chop them finely for the best results.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes a world of difference. I always say, the more garlic, the better!
- 1 teaspoon thyme – Dried thyme works perfectly, but fresh is even better if you have it on hand.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary – Just a hint of this herb goes a long way in adding depth to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference for that perfect seasoning.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy. You could try half-and-half for a lighter version if you’d like!
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to making a bowl of love that everyone will adore! Don’t worry if you don’t have everything; feel free to substitute or add your favorite veggies. Cooking is all about making it your own!
How to Prepare Marry Me Chicken Soup
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to create such a delicious bowl of love. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have your own pot of Marry Me Chicken Soup bubbling away!
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
First up, grab a large pot and heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in those chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté them together for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. You want the onions to become translucent, and the veggies should start to soften up. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen—heavenly!
Step 2: Add Garlic
Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Stir it in and let it cook for just 1 minute. Be careful not to overcook it! Garlic can go from perfect to burnt in a flash, and we want that lovely garlicky flavor without the bitterness. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Step 3: Combine with Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Now, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This is where the soup starts to come alive! Once it’s bubbling away, it’s time for the next step.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Herbs
Now, add in your shredded chicken, dried thyme, rosemary, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken is well coated with those lovely herbs. This is where you can start to feel the love in the air—so comforting!
Step 5: Simmer
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll want to keep it at a gentle simmer—just enough to keep the bubbles dancing but not boiling over.
Step 6: Add Cream
Finally, stir in that luscious heavy cream. This is what gives the soup its dreamy, creamy consistency. Heat it through for a few more minutes, and voilà! Your Marry Me Chicken Soup is ready to be served. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary—you want it to be just right!
Nutritional Information for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Now, let’s talk numbers! This Marry Me Chicken Soup not only warms your heart but also provides a nice balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, based on the ingredients used:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. Whether you’re counting macros or just enjoying a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe hits the spot!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your Marry Me Chicken Soup turns out perfect every time! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy shortcut, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves you time and adds amazing flavor!
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to tweak the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to suit your taste. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it yours!
- Chop Evenly: Make sure your veggies are diced evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate, ensuring that every bite has the perfect texture.
- Let It Simmer: Simmering isn’t just about cooking; it’s about letting those flavors develop! Don’t rush this step; it’s where the magic happens.
- Save the Cream for Last: Adding the heavy cream at the end keeps it rich and velvety. Heating it too long can change the texture, so stir it in just before serving.
- Serve with Love: Don’t forget to serve your soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s all about those little touches that make your meal special!
With these tips, you’re all set to whip up a bowl of soup that not only warms the belly but also the heart. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this delightful Marry Me Chicken Soup, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience! There are some wonderful sides and accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the soup. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Crusty Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty loaf of bread! It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaking up all that delicious broth.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent option, serve some buttery garlic bread on the side. The flavors pair beautifully, and who can resist garlic bread?
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: If you’re feeling nostalgic, a gooey grilled cheese sandwich is like a match made in heaven with chicken soup. Go for sharp cheddar or your favorite cheese!
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies not only brings color to your plate but also adds a healthy touch. Try carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and herbs.
- Cheesy Biscuit: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are another fantastic option! They’re perfect for sopping up that creamy goodness and add a delightful texture to your meal.
No matter what you choose to serve alongside your Marry Me Chicken Soup, just remember that sharing it with loved ones makes it even more special. Enjoy every spoonful and every moment around the table!
FAQ About Marry Me Chicken Soup
Got questions about my Marry Me Chicken Soup? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I get. Let’s dive in!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can even throw frozen chicken breasts straight into the pot with the broth and let them cook through—just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it might not be as creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to let it cool before sealing it up. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat gently on the stove!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is super versatile. Feel free to toss in peas, corn, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the veggies you choose!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Just double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
You bet! Just sauté the veggies first, then combine everything in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream right before serving to keep it nice and creamy!
What can I serve with this soup?
Oh, so many options! Crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a gooey grilled cheese sandwich pair perfectly. The key is to have something to dip or enjoy on the side!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, doubling the recipe is a great idea if you want to make a big batch! Just make sure your pot is large enough to hold it all, and adjust cooking times if needed.
I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident in making my Marry Me Chicken Soup! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this Marry Me Chicken Soup is a game changer! Here are just a few reasons why you’re going to fall head over heels for it:
- Comforting and Cozy: It’s like a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
- Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup without any fuss.
- Quick to Make: In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a pot of love ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously Creamy: The heavy cream adds a rich, velvety texture that takes the flavor to another level!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore this soup, making it a hit for the whole family.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to make it uniquely yours!
- Perfect for Leftovers: It stores well, so you can enjoy the comforting goodness for days or freeze it for later.
Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become a staple in your home. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, and everyone will be asking for the recipe!
PrintMarry Me Chicken Soup: 7 Secrets to Heartwarming Flavor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting chicken soup that will make you fall in love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Serve with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Marry Me Chicken Soup, chicken soup, comfort food