If there’s one bowl of soup that can win over hearts instantly, it’s this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Think cozy, creamy comfort with a little kick of spice and the deep, savory notes of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll understand why it’s called “marry me” — it’s simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a silky, luxurious broth.
Flavor-Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs give every bite a burst of flavor.
Wholesome and Comforting: With chicken, veggies, and spinach, it’s nourishing as well as indulgent.
Perfect Anytime: This soup works equally well as a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping starter.

Ingredients

Here’s what makes this soup magical:

Olive Oil and Butter: A rich base for sautéing and adding depth.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: Classic aromatics that build flavor.
Garlic: Brings warmth and a savory kick.
Chicken Breast: Lean protein that keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
Chicken Broth: The flavorful foundation for the soup.
Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Infuse tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
Italian Seasoning & Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Layers of herb and spice to balance richness.
Parmesan Cheese: For salty, cheesy depth.
Spinach: A touch of green for freshness and nutrients.
Fresh Basil: Finishes with brightness and aroma.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

How to Make the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add cubed chicken to the pot. Stir and cook until golden on the outside, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Build Flavor

Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let everything cook together for 2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add the Greens

Toss in spinach and simmer for 2–3 minutes until just wilted.

Step 7: Finish with Basil

Stir in fresh basil, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Rush the Aromatics: Let the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery soften properly — this step builds the soup’s flavor foundation.
Cut Chicken Evenly: Cube the chicken into similar-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds richer flavor.
Balance the Heat: Add more or less crushed red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
Make It Thicker: If you prefer a creamier soup, let it simmer uncovered a little longer to reduce slightly.

How to Serve

With Bread: Pair with crusty bread, garlic knots, or focaccia to soak up that creamy broth.
As a Starter: Serve smaller bowls as the first course at a cozy dinner.
With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to bring the cream back together. Add a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add even more richness and stay tender. Just trim excess fat before cubing.

How can I make this soup lighter?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk, and use less Parmesan for a lighter version.

Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes?
They’re key to the “marry me” flavor, but you can substitute with roasted red peppers for a sweeter twist.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the soup up to 24 hours ahead and reheat before serving. Just wait to add spinach and basil until reheating to keep them fresh and vibrant.

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a date night, or just because you’re craving something cozy, it’s bound to win you over. 🥣💕