Description
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and al dente shell pasta in a luscious tomato and cream-based broth. Infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, this hearty soup is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Base and Aromatics
- 1 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar (divided)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
Tomato and Broth
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 32 oz packages chicken broth
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Parmesan (grated, for garnish)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- 2 tsp sea salt
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups dry shell pasta
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach (chopped)
- 3 cups cooked chicken breasts (shredded)
- Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, then add the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the garlic releases its aroma without burning.
- Add Tomato Elements: Incorporate the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir frequently to coat the onions and garlic evenly with the tomato paste, cooking for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Combine Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add chopped fresh basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and sea salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Add dry shell pasta to the simmering soup. Let it cook for approximately 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Once pasta is cooked, add the chopped baby spinach, shredded cooked chicken, room temperature cream cheese, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheeses to melt and the spinach to soften.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the soup with grated Parmesan cheese and additional chopped fresh basil for color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Using oil from the sun-dried tomato jar adds extra flavor to the base; if unavailable, substitute with olive oil.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting and smoother texture in the soup.
- Simmering pasta directly in the soup enhances the broth's starchiness, giving a creamier consistency.
- Adjust crushed red pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers store well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
