Rich, creamy soup with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan—so good, it might inspire proposals!
Introduction
Imagine a dish so rich, comforting, and flavorful that it might just lead to a marriage proposal. Welcome to Marry Me Soup—a creamy, cheesy, sun-dried tomato–infused chicken soup that’s earned its name for good reason. Inspired by the flavors of Tuscan cuisine and elevated with a luxurious texture, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or feeding a crowd, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between easy prep and gourmet taste.
In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, offer useful tips to customize your soup, and provide the full breakdown of ingredients, prep time, calories, and storage suggestions. By the end, you’ll be armed with everything you need to create a soul-warming soup that’s perfect for any occasion—romantic or otherwise.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the rich layers of flavor in this dish. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds a silky texture and buttery richness to the base.
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1 medium white onion, diced – Aromatic and slightly sweet when sautéed.
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4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and warmth.
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Brings a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor.
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¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the soup into a creamy consistency.
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Acts as the flavorful liquid base.
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4 cups heavy cream – Provides luxurious richness and creaminess.
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2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded – Offers tender, protein-rich substance.
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and essential for umami depth.
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1 teaspoon dried basil – Lends subtle herbaceous notes.
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary adds complexity.
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Salt and pepper, to taste – Season carefully for balanced flavor.
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Optional garnish: crispy bacon bits – For a smoky, salty crunch on top.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add diced white onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
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Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
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Continue cooking for 2 minutes to let the garlic release its fragrance and the tomatoes soften.
Pro Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, as this can create a bitter flavor.
Step 2: Create a Roux for Creaminess
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Sprinkle the flour over the onion-garlic-tomato mixture while stirring constantly.
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Keep stirring for about 2–3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and develop the roux.
Roux Tip: The roux should be smooth and slightly golden but not too dark, which helps keep the soup light in color and rich in texture.
Step 3: Add the Liquid Components
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Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
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Then add the heavy cream slowly, continuing to stir as the mixture thickens.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer.
Why Simmering Matters: Boiling cream can cause it to separate. A low simmer ensures the soup stays velvety and smooth.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
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Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper.
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Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to allow all flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken.
Chicken Tip: Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut, or poach chicken breasts in broth ahead of time for a juicier texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Ladle the creamy soup into bowls.
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Top with optional crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and a savory kick.
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Serve with slices of crusty sourdough or warm garlic bread for dipping.
Preparation Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories
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Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving (based on 8 servings)
Expert Tips & Tricks
1. Cheese Matters
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the soup.
2. Balance the Creaminess
If you prefer a slightly lighter version, swap 1–2 cups of the heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half. For a richer soup, consider using a touch of cream cheese (about 2 tablespoons) for added body.
3. Boost the Veggies
Want more color and nutrients? Add chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms in Step 4. These additions blend beautifully with the creamy base and add a hearty dimension.
4. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want a little heat. This works especially well if you’re pairing the soup with a sweet side like cornbread.
5. Make It Ahead
Marry Me Soup is ideal for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully.
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Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Let soup cool completely. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat.
6. Perfect Pairings
This soup pairs well with:
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Buttery garlic bread
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Toasted baguette slices
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Side Caesar salad
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Roasted vegetables
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Crispy bacon crumbles or pancetta bits on top
Add a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon to round out the meal.
Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Soup
The name “Marry Me Soup” comes from its irresistible flavor—rumor has it that one bite could lead to a proposal. Much like the viral “Marry Me Chicken,” this soup blends creamy indulgence with cozy familiarity, making it perfect for impressing guests or sharing a romantic meal.
It’s ideal for:
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Date nights
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Dinner parties
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Valentine’s Day
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Comfort food cravings
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Impressing your in-laws
This is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again—so keep it handy!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to impress a special someone or simply indulge in a heartwarming dish, this Marry Me Soup delivers on every level. From the silky cream base and savory Parmesan to the sweet sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken, it’s comfort food at its most luxurious.
Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor, this soup will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Don’t be surprised if your guests ask for seconds—or your hand in marriage.