If you have ever wished for a dish that wraps you up in warmth, comfort, and a burst of delicious flavors, then you are going to adore this recipe. Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl is not just any ordinary soup; it’s a luscious blend of tender rotisserie chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness that feels like a big, cozy embrace from your favorite person. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a heartwarming symphony of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes all coming together to soothe both body and soul.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This soup’s magic lies in its beautifully balanced yet simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to add depth, color, and texture to every bite. From the richness of cream cheese to the herbal brightness of fresh basil, these components make Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl truly unforgettable.

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes: Julienne-cut and packed in oil with herbs, they bring a burst of tangy sweetness and a chewy texture that elevates the soup.
1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar: This flavorful oil infuses the base with concentrated tomato-herb goodness right from the start.
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed to soft perfection.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and a subtle pungency.
3 tbsp tomato paste: Deepens the tomato flavor and adds vibrant color.
32 oz (2 packages) chicken broth: The hearty foundation that complements and brings all flavors together.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates an irresistibly creamy texture that feels indulgent yet comforting.
4 tsp fresh basil: Fresh and fragrant, these leaves brighten the flavor profile with their herbal lift.
2 tsp kosher salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing the soup’s savory elements.
1 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and a touch of Mediterranean charm.
1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor and rounds out the seasoning.
¼ tsp crushed red pepper: Provides a gentle kick that can be adjusted to your liking.
8 oz uncooked medium shell pasta: Perfect bite-sized pasta that soaks up the luscious broth.
3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped: Adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness.
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender, flavorful protein that makes the soup heartier.
8 oz cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature: Melts into the soup to create a rich, velvety consistency.
1 ½ oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded: Adds a savory, nutty flair and helps bind the flavors.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, and let them cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their irresistible fragrance. This step lays the fragrant foundation for all the layers of flavor coming your way.

Step 2: Build the Base

Next, stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes. Keep the mixture moving for about 2 minutes as the tomato paste deepens in color and intensifies in flavor. This concentrated tomato goodness is what makes Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl so richly satisfying.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Now pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring this blend up to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to combine all the seasonings perfectly. Let the soup simmer for about 12 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the medium shell pasta to the simmering broth, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the pasta to cook for around 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. The pasta will become tender as it absorbs the flavorful broth, making each spoonful wonderfully hearty.

Step 5: Make It Creamy & Delicious

Lower the heat to low, and gently fold in the chopped spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese cubes, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir frequently for 5 minutes until the cream cheese melts completely, the spinach wilts, and the chicken warms through. This finishing touch transforms the soup into the ultimate creamy comfort food.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle this luscious Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl into your favorite bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with a little extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and subtle heat. Serve it immediately alongside crusty bread or a crisp green salad to complete your comforting meal.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese bring brightness and texture to each bowl. Adding red pepper flakes gives you the option to amp up the spice just a bit, making each bite feel vibrant and well-rounded.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread for dipping or a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Either side adds freshness and contrast, enhancing your warm, creamy bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out mini bread bowls or sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top to introduce an unexpected crunch. For individual portions, ladle into decorative ramekins and garnish with microgreens for an elegant touch when entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Properly stored, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but keep in mind the pasta may slightly soften after thawing. Consider freezing the soup without pasta if you plan to store it long-term. Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy defrosting and reheating later on.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir frequently until heated through and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup feels too thick. Avoid microwaving at high heat for better texture and flavor retention.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same concentrated flavor and texture as sun-dried tomatoes, which add a wonderful tang and chewiness to Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl. If you must substitute, consider slow-roasting fresh tomatoes to deepen their flavor first.

What pasta can I use if I don’t have medium shell pasta?

Any bite-sized pasta like small elbows, orzo, or mini rotini will work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure it reaches the perfect tender texture without becoming mushy.

Is this soup spicy?

The recipe includes crushed red pepper for a gentle heat, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste, making Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl as mild or as spicy as you prefer.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the rotisserie chicken. Adding mushrooms or tofu can help boost the protein content without losing the comforting vibe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing creaminess?

Slow reheating over low heat with occasional stirring works best to keep the cream cheese and heavy cream from separating. Adding a little extra cream or broth when reheating can help restore the lovely texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a warm bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl on a chilly day or when you need a little extra comfort. This recipe combines simple ingredients with rich, creamy flavors that truly feel like a loving embrace. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and fall in love with this soul-soothing soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!