There’s a certain kind of solace that comes from a warm bowl of Chicken Pasta with Spinach, especially on a chilly evening when comfort food is calling. The moment you lift the lid and the rich aroma of simmering chicken and herbs fills your kitchen, your worries seem to melt away. I stumbled upon this recipe during an impromptu dinner gathering, and it quickly turned into a cherished favorite. With its mouthwatering blend of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy goodness, it’s not just a meal—it’s a heartwarming experience that brings everyone to the table.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a cozy dinner option on a busy night, this dish strikes the perfect balance of ease and elegance. The beauty of Chicken Pasta with Spinach lies in its versatility; you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Trust me, this is the kind of recipe that leaves a lasting impression, making it a go-to for any occasion. Let’s dive into the steps to create this magical dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why love Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This soup brings a cozy warmth to your kitchen, perfect on a chilly evening!
Simplicity: With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a flavorful dish that even novice cooks can master.
Rich Flavor: The delightful blend of creamy broth, herbs, and tender chicken creates a taste that captivates every palate.
Versatile Delight: Easily swap in seasonal vegetables or add your favorite spices for a unique twist.
Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it a showstopper for dinner parties.
You’ll find that preparing this dish is not only straightforward but also a surefire crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy everyone around the table!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
This Chicken Pasta with Spinach is truly delightful!
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – add a teaspoon for a touch of healthy fat and flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – use 1 ½ pounds for tender and juicy meat.
• Italian seasoning – 2 teaspoons will infuse your dish with a beautiful herbaceous essence.
• Salt and pepper – season to taste for enhanced flavors.
For the Vegetables
• Diced carrots – ½ cup adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Diced celery – ½ cup provides a nice crunch and fresh taste.
• Diced onions – ½ cup will create a savory base that enhances the soup’s depth.
• Diced sundried tomatoes – ¼ cup adds a burst of tangy flavor to the mix.
• Garlic cloves – 3 minced cloves ignite your dish with aromatic goodness.
For the Soup Consistency
• Flour – ¼ cup acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup a comforting texture.
• Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons deepen the tomato flavor and richness.
• Chicken broth – 6-8 cups will create a delightful base; start with 6 cups and adjust as needed.
For the Pasta and Creaminess
• Pasta – 6 ounces of your choice provides hearty satisfaction.
• Heavy whipping cream – 1 cup makes this soup luxuriously smooth and creamy.
• Grated parmesan reggiano cheese – ½-1 cup elevates the flavor with a salty richness.
• Fresh spinach – 2 ½-3 cups, wilted directly into the soup for a pop of color and nutrition.
Prepare this soul-soothing Marry Me Chicken Soup, and elevate your dinner table with warmth and flavor!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Allow the oil to warm up before moving on to the next step. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers.
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Brown the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown, typically around 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté diced carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic in the pot. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
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Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to combine. This will help thicken your soup, allowing it to achieve that coveted creamy texture.
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Add tomato paste and pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a simmer. You can add more broth later if needed!
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Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes, ensuring it retains a slight bite.
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Reduce the heat and gently fold in the heavy whipping cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Toss in fresh spinach and stir until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. You want the spinach to maintain its vibrant green color and a bit of texture.
Optional: Garnish with additional parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup
Refrigerator: Store your Chicken Pasta with Spinach in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious!
Freezer: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion, and label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it appears too thick after freezing.
Thawing: For optimal flavor, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures even warming and retains the savory taste of your soup!
What to Serve with Chicken Pasta with Spinach?
Nothing completes a cozy meal quite like perfectly paired sides that elevate the experience and tantalize your taste buds.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread complements the creamy soup, perfect for dipping into all that delicious broth.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the pasta wonderfully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini and bell peppers add depth, vibrancy, and nutrition to your meal, enhancing your overall dining experience.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites can serve as a delightful appetizer, offering a fantastic texture contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, zesty drink cuts through the creaminess, cleansing your palate and keeping the meal bright and lively.
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Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your culinary experience with a light, airy chocolate mousse that wraps up your meal on a sweet note, leaving everyone delighted.
These pairings will not only delight your guests but also create a feast that warms the heart and brings everyone together.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Marry Me Chicken Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save valuable time during your busy week! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and crisp. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (steps 1-7) up to 3 days beforehand; just prepare it until you fold in the fresh spinach, refrigerate, and reheat gently on the stove. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir in the spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes, ensuring a deliciously vibrant dish that’s just as satisfying as when freshly made! This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort.
Variations & Substitutions for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add your personal touch to enhance flavors and enjoy new twists.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties. Make sure to follow package directions for cooking time since they may vary.
- Dairy-Free Cream: Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy whipping cream for a lighter, dairy-free soup without sacrificing creaminess.
- Vegetable Medley: Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. This also introduces new textures and flavors to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables. This will add a delightful warmth!
- Citrus Burst: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving. The acidity brightens flavors and elevates the dish to a whole new level.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley. Adding a handful of chopped herbs just before serving can enhance aroma and taste beautifully.
- Protein Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or diced turkey for a quicker version. Both options pack a punch of flavor and help reduce cooking time.
- Mushroom Madness: Incorporate sliced mushrooms when sautéing the veggies. They provide earthy depth and a satisfying, hearty addition to your soup.
Embrace these variations to make this comforting bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup truly your own!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Soup
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Perfect Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness; avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
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Flavor Boost: Sauté vegetables until they are soft and fragrant for a deeper flavor—don’t rush this crucial step!
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Creamy Consistency: Whisk in the heavy cream slowly to maintain that luscious creaminess and avoid separation.
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Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta al dente in your soup for the best texture; it should absorb flavor without becoming mushy.
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Fresh Spinach: Add spinach at the end to keep its bright color and nutrients; overcooking can lead to a wilted, unappetizing appearance.
Enjoy making your own Marry Me Chicken Soup, and let these tips elevate your delicious creation!
Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What types of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer a richer taste. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand!
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Very! Store your Chicken Pasta with Spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Definitely! Freeze your soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen. Label with the date for easy reference!
What can I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries at all! If your soup ends up thicker than desired, simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while stirring over medium-low heat. This will help restore that creamy consistency. You can do this just before serving!
Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch. For the pasta, opt for gluten-free alternatives available in most stores. Just follow package instructions for cooking times.
Can I add different vegetables to the soup?
Very much so! Feel free to swap out the diced carrots, celery, or even add bell peppers for a personal touch. Just remember that some veggies may require slightly different cooking times, so adjust as needed to keep everything tender and delicious!
Marry Me Chicken Soup: The Comfort Food You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Allow the oil to warm up until it shimmers.
- Brown the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for around 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Sauté diced carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic in the pot for about 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to combine for thickening.
- Add tomato paste and pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Reduce heat and fold in heavy whipping cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, maintaining its vibrant color.
