Marry Me Chicken Soup is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into something memorable. Inspired by the famous creamy chicken dish, this version transforms those bold, tangy flavors into a rich, spoonable comfort meal. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, pasta, and a velvety broth, this Chicken soup recipe delivers everything you love in one pot. If you crave comfort food that feels special yet simple, this hearty soup belongs in your weekly rotation.

Story

The first time I made Marry Me Chicken Soup, I understood exactly why the original dish earned its name. That creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, the aroma of garlic and basil, and the richness of Parmesan create something unforgettable. Turning it into Marry Me Chicken Soup felt natural because the flavors already begged for a cozy, one-pot version.

This Marry Me Chicken Soup takes everything people adore about the classic and transforms it into a deeply satisfying bowl. Instead of serving the chicken over pasta, the pasta cooks right in the broth, absorbing flavor while thickening the soup. As a result, every spoonful tastes layered and balanced.

Because Marry Me Chicken Soup uses rotisserie chicken, it stays simple enough for weeknights. Yet it feels elegant enough for date night. Whether you serve it for family dinner or a quiet evening at home, it delivers warmth and richness without fuss.

Ingredients

½ cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with herbs
1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
4 medium garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
64 ounces chicken broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
4 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta
3 cups chopped fresh baby spinach
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
1 ½ ounces finely shredded Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic so everything cooks evenly. Drain the sun-dried tomatoes and reserve one tablespoon of their flavorful oil. Cube the cream cheese and let it sit at room temperature so it melts smoothly later. Measure the broth, cream, and seasonings in advance to keep the cooking process steady and stress-free.

Cooking Instructions

Heat the reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, then cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for about 2 minutes until the paste deepens in color.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, add the pasta and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta reaches al dente texture.

Lower the heat and stir in spinach, shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the chicken heats through, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid adding the rotisserie chicken too early, since overcooking can dry it out. Instead, stir it in at the end just to warm through. Also, do not boil the soup aggressively once you add the cream, because high heat can cause separation. Finally, monitor the pasta carefully so it does not overcook and become mushy.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Add red pepper flakes gradually if you prefer milder heat. If the cream cheese resists melting, press any lumps against the side of the pot to help them dissolve. For extra richness, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top just before serving. You can also swap medium shells for another small pasta shape, adjusting cook time according to package directions.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup hot with crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. This easy soup stands on its own, yet simple sides make it feel like a complete, satisfying meal.

How to Store Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream since the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat while stirring.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup combines creamy broth, tender chicken, pasta, and bold sun-dried tomato flavor in one unforgettable bowl. It feels indulgent yet approachable, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Once you try it, you may understand why people say this recipe inspires devotion at first bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. However, since the pasta absorbs liquid as it sits, you may need to add extra broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

Can I substitute another pasta shape?

Absolutely. Small shapes like orecchiette or ditalini work well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust as needed so the pasta remains tender but firm.

Is it possible to make this soup less spicy?

Yes. Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level. You can always add more at the end if you prefer a little kick.