Marry Me Soup

If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, look no further than Marry Me Soup! This delightful recipe has won over countless hearts (and taste buds) with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and sundried tomatoes, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What makes Marry Me Soup so special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this comforting dish will impress everyone. Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious soup on the table in about an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with savory flavors that blend beautifully together.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort on chilly days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Marry Me Soup is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need to create this delicious dish.

For the Soup

• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin)
• 1 quart heavy cream
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium if possible)
• 4 slices bacon (optional)
• 4 tbsps butter
• 1/2 cup flour
• 7 oz sundried tomatoes
• ½ onion (diced)
• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup basil (chopped)
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and chopped into small pieces)

For Seasoning

• 2 tsps paprika
• ½ tsp cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt

More Seasoning

• 2 tsps paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cajun seasoning

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Go vegetarian: Leave out the chicken and bacon entirely and add more veggies like carrots or spinach for a hearty meatless option.
• Add some heat: If you love spice, toss in a chopped jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Creamy alternatives: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version that still packs flavor.

How to Make Marry Me Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. This step not only adds flavor but also leaves behind delicious bacon fat that will enhance the taste of your soup. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain while leaving that lovely fat behind.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season your sliced chicken breasts with spices like paprika and garlic powder. Searing them in the leftover bacon fat is key—it creates a nice golden brown crust and seals in all those juicy flavors. Once browned on both sides and fully cooked through, set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add butter and sauté your diced onions and minced garlic until they soften. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup. The sweetness from the onions mixed with garlicky goodness sets up an irresistible base.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle flour into the pot to create a roux. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown; this thickens our soup beautifully later on. It’s important not to rush this step as it brings depth to our final dish.

Step 5: Add Sundried Tomatoes

Toss in those sun-dried tomatoes next! They add bursts of flavor that elevate every spoonful of Marry Me Soup. Stir everything together so those tomatoes get coated in all those savory juices.

Step 6: Combine Liquids and Spices

Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream while adding those spices again—this creates a creamy, seasoned broth that’s simply divine! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; let all those ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Incorporate Potatoes

Now it’s time for our Yukon gold potatoes! Add them into the simmering soup and let them cook until tender. Not only do they provide heartiness but they also soak up all that wonderful flavor during cooking.

Step 8: Melt in Parmesan Cheese

Once your potatoes are tender, sprinkle in shredded parmesan cheese. Stir until melted; this will give your soup that creamy texture we crave!

Step 9: Shred Chicken

Take your cooked chicken breasts, shred them up into bite-sized pieces, and stir them back into the pot. Let everything simmer together for just a bit longer so flavors combine perfectly.

Step 10: Garnish

Just before serving, toss in freshly chopped basil leaves for brightness! If you saved any bacon earlier, crumble it on top as garnish—this adds an extra touch of crunch!

And there you have it—your very own bowl of Marry Me Soup ready to share with loved ones! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also quite forgiving, allowing you to make small adjustments for an even more delightful experience!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and measuring out spices before you start cooking can save time and reduce stress during the cooking process.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil at the end of cooking adds a burst of flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. It brightens the soup and enhances its presentation!
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. On the flip side, if it’s too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Marry Me Soup

Marry Me Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, but it can also be dressed up for special occasions. Here are some fun ways to present this dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds color but also brings an aromatic touch that complements the creamy base beautifully.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons can add a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the soup.
• Grated Cheese: A little extra cheese on top right before serving makes for an indulgent touch that will impress your guests.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of this creamy soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers provide delicious flavor and nutrients while complementing the heartiness of the soup.
• Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: These options offer a great way to bulk up your meal while providing additional fiber and nutrients. Their mild flavors won’t compete with the rich taste of Marry Me Soup.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet night in or sharing it with friends at a gathering, Marry Me Soup is sure to win hearts all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Soup is an excellent choice for meal prepping! It stores beautifully and can be enjoyed throughout the week, making it a perfect dish for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion.
• Make sure to label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What makes Marry Me Soup special?

Marry Me Soup is special because it combines creamy flavors with hearty ingredients, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The combination of chicken, sundried tomatoes, and cheese makes it irresistible!

Can I make Marry Me Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can make a vegetarian version of Marry Me Soup by substituting chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will still give you a rich flavor without any meat.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Marry Me Soup?

To enhance the flavor of your Marry Me Soup, consider adding more spices such as Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a delightful brightness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Marry Me Soup as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays, this soup is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!