Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a flavorful, comforting soup that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and a medley of savory ingredients in a velvety base. The soup is enhanced with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, making it so delicious, it might just convince someone to say “yes!” This cozy, indulgent dish is perfect for chilly nights, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy without being heavy, flavorful without being overwhelming, and packed with ingredients that meld together to create a rich, satisfying dish. The tender chicken, combined with the smooth, velvety broth and cheesy finish, makes this soup absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve it for a special dinner or just need a hearty, quick meal, Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional, for added texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Build the soup base: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, dried basil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Add the chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pot, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
Optional pasta or rice: If you’re adding pasta or rice, stir it in at this point, and let the soup simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the pasta or rice is heated through.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian soup.
Spicy version: Add a diced jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
Herb variation: Fresh thyme and basil work great in this recipe, but you can also use other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Use of different dairy: For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you can add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can also cook the chicken directly from frozen, but it may take a little longer to cook through.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well and can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, you can use milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version of this soup. However, using cream gives it a rich, velvety texture that is a signature of this dish.

How can I make this soup more flavorful?

To elevate the flavors, try adding a splash of white wine when cooking the vegetables or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the creaminess. Fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice can also add an extra layer of brightness.

Conclusion

Rich, Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food that blends tender chicken, creamy broth, and rich Parmesan into a delightful meal that will leave you wanting more. With its savory flavors and velvety texture, this soup is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table.