There’s something magical about a recipe that’s so good it gets people talking — and the viral “Marry Me” dishes definitely fall into that category. From creamy skillet chicken to rich pasta bakes, the flavors have won over countless hearts (and stomachs). Now, there’s a new contender for the ultimate comfort food title: Marry Me Chicken Soup. Imagine tender chicken, velvety broth, Italian-inspired seasonings, and just the right amount of creamy indulgence in every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that can warm you from the inside out on a cold day or impress guests at a cozy dinner party. And yes, it’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Looking for inspiration? Try our creamy chicken and rice recipe for another comforting bowl of goodness.
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What Makes Marry Me Chicken Soup So Irresistible?
The name itself suggests romance, but this recipe’s real proposal is to your taste buds. The soup version builds on the viral Marry Me Chicken concept by combining all its most beloved traits — creamy texture, savory depth, and a balance of tang and spice — into a bowl-friendly format.
Origins of the Viral “Marry Me” Recipe Trend
The first “Marry Me Chicken” gained internet fame as a skillet dish featuring chicken breasts in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Its rich, well-rounded flavor inspired dozens of variations, each promising a meal so good you might just get a marriage proposal after serving it. This soup adaptation takes those same elements and infuses them into a lighter, more comforting format, perfect for family dinners or make-ahead lunches.
Why This Soup Version Steals the Show
While the original is hearty, the soup adds a layer of versatility. The broth stretches those decadent flavors into a satisfying yet not overly heavy dish, ideal for year-round enjoyment. Plus, it’s easy to adapt: gluten-free pasta, dairy-free swaps, or extra veggies for a nutrient boost all work beautifully without losing the dish’s charm.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
This recipe shines because of its simple but strategic ingredient list — each component serves a purpose in creating a balanced, crave-worthy soup.
Choosing the Best Chicken for Rich Flavor
Shredded cooked chicken, particularly from a rotisserie bird, offers unbeatable convenience and depth of flavor. The tender meat absorbs the seasoned broth, adding savory satisfaction in every bite. You can also use leftover baked or grilled chicken for an easy weeknight option.
Creamy Base Essentials – Dairy & Dairy-Free Options
The signature creaminess comes from a combination of half & half and Boursin cheese, which melts into the broth for a silky finish. For a dairy-free twist, swap in Original Nutpods and Kite Hill cream cheese — you’ll still get that luscious texture without any dairy.
Herbs, Spices, and Italian-Inspired Touches
Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper give the soup its warmth and character, while sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness. A touch of Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free) rounds out the flavor with nutty, savory notes. Don’t miss our pesto without pine nuts for another Italian-inspired kitchen win.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Making Marry Me Chicken Soup is a breeze, and you can choose between stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker methods depending on your schedule.
Classic Stovetop Method
- Sauté the aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.
- Build the flavor base – Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste for a concentrated, tangy kick.
- Add the broth & seasonings – Pour in chicken broth and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the pasta – Add uncooked pasta and simmer until just al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Finish with the creamy touch – Reduce heat, stir in shredded chicken, chopped spinach, half & half, Boursin cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Instant Pot Variation
- Use the sauté setting for onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add broth, seasonings, pasta, and chicken. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, quick release, then stir in spinach, Boursin, and cream until fully melted and incorporated.
Slow Cooker Method
- Add all ingredients except pasta, spinach, and dairy to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes, then stir in spinach and dairy just before serving.
Check out our creamy Thai dumpling soup for another rich and flavorful comfort food recipe.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
The beauty of this soup is how easily it pairs with other dishes, making it a versatile main course.
Best Side Dishes to Complement the Soup
- Crusty bread or garlic knots – Perfect for soaking up the last drops of broth.
- Fresh green salad – A simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add extra nutrition and texture.
Garnishes That Elevate Presentation
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil instantly brightens the dish. For extra indulgence, top with more Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil. Crushed red pepper adds a gentle heat for spice lovers.
Don’t miss our Southern-style honey butter cornbread poppers for a sweet-savory side that complements creamy soups beautifully.
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips
Storing Marry Me Chicken Soup correctly ensures every reheated bowl tastes as good as the first.
How to Keep the Creamy Texture Intact
- Store the soup and pasta separately to prevent noodles from absorbing too much broth.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened.
Meal-Prep and Make-Ahead Advice
- Make the broth base in advance and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days before adding fresh pasta.
- Freeze without pasta or dairy for up to 3 months, then add them fresh when reheating for best texture.
For an equally satisfying freezer-friendly dish, discover our Tuscan beef casserole that keeps beautifully for future dinners.
Marry Me Chicken Soup FAQs
Can I make it keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version that still delivers creamy, rich flavor.
What other pasta shapes work well?
Small pasta like shells, ditalini, or orzo work best. They hold broth nicely and don’t overpower the soup.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Use Original Nutpods instead of half & half, Kite Hill cream cheese in place of Boursin, and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan. You’ll still get a creamy texture without dairy.
Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely. This soup often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just keep pasta separate to avoid mushiness when reheating.
Conclusion – Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just another comfort food — it’s a recipe that brings together creamy indulgence, nourishing ingredients, and simple cooking methods for a dish that’s perfect year-round. Whether you serve it for a romantic dinner, a casual family night, or as part of your meal-prep routine, it’s bound to win hearts (and empty bowls) every time.
Discover great ideas like our better-than-Bush’s baked beans for another cozy, flavor-packed recipe to add to your collection.
PrintMarry Me Chicken Soup
A creamy, hearty Marry Me Chicken Soup with tender shredded chicken, pasta, and Italian-inspired flavors. Easy to make on the stovetop, in the Instant Pot, or in a slow cooker, with gluten-free and dairy-free options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop / Instant Pot / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, drained and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 7 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
- 12 oz gluten-free shell pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 3/4 cup half & half (or Original Nutpods for dairy-free)
- 1 package Boursin cheese (or 4 oz cream cheese / Kite Hill cream cheese for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, divided (or 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste; stir for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then add uncooked pasta. Cook over medium heat until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add shredded chicken, spinach, half & half, Boursin cheese, and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Stir for 2–3 minutes until spinach wilts and broth is creamy.
- Serve hot, topped with remaining Parmesan, fresh parsley, and extra crushed red pepper if desired.
Notes
- Cook pasta separately if meal-prepping to avoid absorbing too much broth.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- For dairy-free, swap half & half with Nutpods, Boursin with Kite Hill cream cheese, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Freezes well without pasta or dairy; add these when reheating.
- Reheat gently to maintain creamy texture.