Oh boy, let me tell you about the warm hug in a bowl that is Marry Me Chicken Soup! Picture this: a cool evening, the scent of simmering spices wafting through the air, and you getting cozy with a comforting bowl of soup that could just win someone’s heart. Honestly, it’s like a love potion in a dish!
I stumbled upon this recipe while I was trying to impress a certain someone — but, truth be told, I fell in love with it myself long before they did! The creamy texture combined with tender chicken and a medley of fresh veggies creates a symphony of flavors that serenade my taste buds. Pair this with fresh bread, and you’ve got a dinner ready to sweep anyone off their feet!
What’s in Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this soup not only delicious but also easy to throw together.
Chicken Breast or Thighs: Whether you choose tender chicken breasts or juicy thighs is totally up to you! Thighs offer a bit more flavor and moisture, while breasts are leaner. I love using boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy option that we’re using as our base for sautéing. It gives a lovely flavor and helps us get that golden sear on the chicken!
Onion: Chopped up, this brings a sweet and savory depth to the soup. I always prefer yellow or sweet onions for this recipe.
Garlic: Minced and aromatic, garlic is like the trusty sidekick that enhances the flavor of everything!
Carrots: Diced for sweetness and color, they also provide an essential crunch that brightens up the dish.
Celery: Diced celery contributes a lovely crunch and fresh flavor, making this soup feel vibrant.
Chicken Broth: This is our liquid gold! Feel free to use homemade or store-bought (low-sodium recommended).
Heavy Cream: This ingredient takes the soup to a luxurious level. It adds that creamy richness that makes every spoonful feel indulgent.
Fresh Herbs (like Thyme and Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate the dish and add aromatic qualities that make it even more appealing. Don’t skip this!
Salt and Pepper: The basic seasoning heroes of every dish! Make sure to adjust to your taste.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little kick, adding red pepper flakes brings a nice warmth to the flavor profile!
Is Marry Me Chicken Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with health benefits. The combination of **chicken** provides lean protein, perfect for a hearty meal. **Carrots** and **celery** are great sources of vitamins and minerals while also keeping things light and fresh. The inclusion of **heavy cream** adds richness, but you can opt for a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half, if desired. Just remember, everything in moderation!
This isn’t the “diet soup” that leaves you feeling deprived; it’s really about balance and enjoying the flavors while nourishing your body. Just be mindful of the sodium content, especially in store-bought broth, and adjust it according to your health needs.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Soup
– 2 chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 pound)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
This recipe serves 4 generous bowls of comfort.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup?
1. In a pot, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat.
2. Add the **chopped onion**, **minced garlic**, **diced carrots**, and **diced celery**. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they get softened and fragrant.
3. Toss in the **chicken** to the pot and sear it until golden on the outside, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the **chicken broth** and crank up the heat to bring it to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and juicy, about 20 minutes.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it, and then return it to the soup.
7. Stir in the **heavy cream**, **fresh herbs**, **salt**, and **pepper**. If you’re feeling adventurous, add **red pepper flakes** for that kick!
8. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through nicely.
Serve hot, and watch it melt away all your troubles!
Serving Suggestions for Your Heartwarming Soup
To complete the experience, I love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread or homemade garlic bread. You could also sprinkle some additional herbs on top as a garnish for a pop of color! If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
I truly hope you give this Marry Me Chicken Soup a try. It’s guaranteed to warm your heart and maybe even someone else’s! Don’t forget to share your experience or any fun variations you try. Happy cooking!