If you’re looking for a warm, cozy dish that can win anyone over, try Marry Me Chicken Soup! This recipe mixes tender chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty seasonings in a creamy broth. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. In this blog, I’ll guide you through everything you need to create this comforting meal, from step-by-step instructions to helpful tips. Let’s dive into this delicious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup combines tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a rich and creamy broth, perfect for cozy nights.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: The soup can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or herbs, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
- Family Favorite: This hearty dish is sure to impress your loved ones, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Marry Me Chicken Soup is both hearty and simple. To make this dish, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s the list:
– Chicken
– 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Vegetables
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Broth and Cream
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
These ingredients come together to create a warm, comforting soup. The chicken adds protein, while the vegetables bring color and flavor. The broth and cream create a rich base, making every bite satisfying. Don’t forget the fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Sautéing the aromatics
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it looks clear, about 5 minutes. The onion adds a nice base to the soup. Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another minute. The garlic will smell great!
2. Adding the chicken and vegetables
Now, add 3 sliced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot. Cook these veggies for about 3-4 minutes. They should start to get soft. Then, raise the heat to medium-high. Add 2 cut chicken breasts to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is light brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combining the broth and seasonings
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add a can of drained diced tomatoes. Then mix in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf. Stir everything well. Bring the pot to a boil. This helps all the flavors blend.
4. Simmering the soup
Once it boils, turn the heat down low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This makes the soup rich and tasty. Afterward, remove the bay leaf. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of frozen peas. Heat for another 5 minutes. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if you want.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– How to achieve the best flavor: Start by sautéing onions in olive oil. This builds a strong base for your soup. Add garlic after the onions soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen and excite your taste buds. Use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano for a bright punch. They help elevate the dish’s taste.
– Tips for chicken doneness: Cook the chicken until it turns light brown and no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. To check doneness, cut a piece in half. It should be white and juicy. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for 165°F (75°C).
– Adjusting the thickness of the soup: If your soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. For a thicker soup, let it cook longer without a lid. The liquid will reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Presentation Suggestions
– Garnishing ideas: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Chop it finely and sprinkle it on top before serving. You can also drizzle a little cream on top for a lovely swirl. Consider adding a dash of paprika for a pop of color.
– Serving suggestions: Serve the soup in warm bowls to keep it hot. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad. This makes for a comforting meal. You can also offer grated cheese on the side for those who love extra flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your soup. Consider adding fresh thyme or oregano towards the end of cooking for a vibrant taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter soup, you can substitute half the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative, adjusting the richness to your liking.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure the chicken remains tender, avoid overcooking it. Cook just until it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Flavorful Broth: Enhance the broth by using homemade chicken stock if available, or add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot before simmering.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the proteins in Marry Me Chicken Soup. If you want to use turkey, it works well too. Just make sure to cut it into small pieces. For a different flavor, try shrimp. Cook it until it turns pink.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. These options add protein without meat. Make sure to add them at the end to keep them nice.
Flavor Enhancements
To make this soup even tastier, add spices. A dash of cayenne pepper gives it a kick. You can also try smoked paprika for a rich flavor. If you love herbs, add fresh basil or dill. They add a fresh taste.
Adding more vegetables is a great idea, too. Spinach or kale adds color and nutrients. You can also try zucchini or bell peppers for a crunchy texture. Just chop them small and toss them in while cooking.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Marry Me Chicken Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the soup cools to room temperature before sealing it. This helps prevent moisture buildup. The soup lasts in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup, let it cool completely. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, take the soup out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat. Stir it often until it’s hot. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating. Enjoy this cozy dish at your convenience!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great! Just shred it and add it to the soup. This saves time and adds flavor. You can skip the step of cooking the chicken in the pot.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can use a slow cooker to make this soup. Just add all the ingredients except the cream and peas. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cream and peas in the last 30 minutes.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This will keep the soup creamy and delicious without dairy.
This blog post covered how to make delicious Marry Me Chicken Soup. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for great flavor. We explored variations and how to store your soup properly.
In conclusion, this recipe is flexible and easy. You can customize it to suit your taste. Keep experimenting with flavors and ingredients. You’ll enjoy making this soup over and ove
