If you are on the hunt for comfort food that envelops you like a warm embrace, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl. This creamy, vibrant bowl brings together tender rotisserie chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a rich broth that feels like a cozy kitchen hug. Every spoonful sings with layers of flavor and the perfect balance of creaminess and freshness, making it the ultimate soul-warming dish for any day of the year.

Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl so special starts with simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the depth, texture, and inviting color that make this soup unforgettable.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed in oil with herbs, they bring a concentrated, tangy sweetness that lifts the broth.

Sun-dried tomato oil: Used to sauté aromatics, infusing the soup with underlying richness.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and body once softened.

Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic creates a fragrant, savory base.
Tomato paste: Deepens the soup’s color and adds umami complexity.

Chicken broth: The flavorful foundation that ties everything together.
Heavy whipping cream: Brings creamy indulgence and smooth texture.
Fresh basil: Brightens the soup with herbal notes.

Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and amplifying flavors.
Dried Italian seasoning: A classic blend to complement the tomato and chicken.
Garlic powder: Boosts savory depth beyond fresh garlic.

Crushed red pepper: Adds a gentle kick; adjust for your preferred heat level.
Medium shell pasta: Provides tender, bite-sized comfort in every spoonful.
Fresh baby spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh, leafy texture.

Shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender, ready-to-go protein that keeps this recipe fuss-free.
Cream cheese: Cubed and softened, it melts beautifully to create luscious creaminess.
Parmesan cheese: Finely shredded for nutty, salty finish and garnish.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the sun-dried tomato oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic then cook them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and their fragrance fills the kitchen. This step builds a flavorful base that will support all the other ingredients.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste along with the sun-dried tomatoes themselves. Keep the pot moving as you cook for 2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly. This intensifies the soup’s richness and develops deep, savory notes that will make every spoonful unforgettable.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the heavy cream, fresh basil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. This slow melding of flavors is where the magic happens, allowing the soup to thicken and turn velvety smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Drop the uncooked medium shell pasta into the simmering broth. Adjust the heat to medium-low and cook for another 12 minutes, stirring sometimes to prevent sticking. The pasta becomes tender but still holds its shape nicely, creating the perfect texture contrast in this soul-warming soup.

Step 5: Make It Creamy & Delicious

Lower the heat to low and add the chopped spinach, shredded rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese cubes, and freshly shredded Parmesan. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt into a luscious creamy layer and the chicken is warmed through. This final step ensures every bite melts in your mouth with a comforting richness.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle this heartwarming Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl into your favorite bowls. Garnish generously with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Serve it immediately alongside crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a meal that feels like a feast from the inside out.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and a shower of finely shredded Parmesan cheese add brightness and an extra layer of flavor that elevates every spoonful. Don’t shy away from a small pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want to add a gentle heat that balances the soup’s creamy richness.

Side Dishes

A slice of toasted artisanal bread or a warm baguette is ideal for dipping into this luxurious soup. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad featuring crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast that keeps the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun twist that’s perfect for guests or special occasions. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a flavored crème fraîche on top for a gourmet touch that impresses without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers an even better treat for the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, although the pasta may soften a bit more upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If you froze it without pasta, add pre-cooked pasta now and warm through for the perfect texture. Add a splash of cream or broth as needed to bring back its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes offer a different flavor profile and less concentrated tang, so while you can substitute them, sun-dried tomatoes provide that signature intensity that defines this soup.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can swap heavy cream and cream cheese for coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, but expect a slight change in texture and flavor. The soup will still be delicious but less creamy.

What pasta works best in Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl?

Medium shell pasta is ideal because it holds the broth well and adds delightful bites, but small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni also work beautifully.

Can I prepare this soup without rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs. Rotisserie chicken is recommended for its flavor and convenience, but any tender cooked chicken will do.

How spicy is the soup with crushed red pepper?

The recipe calls for a mild amount of crushed red pepper that gives a gentle warmth without overpowering. You can easily adjust the quantity to suit your personal heat preference.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve savored Marry Me Chicken Soup – A Hug in a Bowl, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved recipe worth making again and again. Its perfect harmony of creamy texture, fresh greens, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomato goodness creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace. I warmly encourage you to dive into making this delightful soup soon – it might just become your new favorite for cozy nights and happy gatherings.