This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup with Sundried Tomatoes is pure comfort in a bowl — rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor. Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken” recipe, this soup version transforms those same irresistible flavors — creamy sauce, tangy sundried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan — into a warm, hearty, and soul-soothing meal.
Each spoonful is packed with tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a luscious, cheesy broth that feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s the kind of soup that makes anyone fall in love after just one bite — cozy, creamy, and perfect for chilly days or romantic dinners at home.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
You’ll love this recipe because it brings together all the flavors of your favorite creamy chicken dinner in a single, comforting bowl. The balance of creamy richness with the tang of sundried tomatoes and a hint of garlic makes it unforgettable.
It’s also easy to prepare — simple ingredients, one pot, and under an hour to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special someone, this soup has “wow” factor written all over it.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love soups that feel luxurious without being complicated, this one’s for you. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal yet light enough to enjoy anytime. The combination of Parmesan, heavy cream, and sundried tomatoes creates layers of flavor that deepen as it simmers.
It’s comfort food with elegance — creamy, slightly tangy, garlicky, and satisfying. One bowl, and you’ll understand exactly why it’s called “Marry Me” Chicken Soup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into small cubes)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (small shells, ditalini, or penne)
Optional Garnishes
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Cracked black pepper
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup with Sundried Tomatoes (Step-by-Step)
1. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add butter (if needed), then sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Sundried Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let cook for 1–2 minutes to release their oils and flavor.
4. Create the Base
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to coat. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Pasta and Simmer
Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally, until tender. The starch from the pasta will naturally thicken the soup.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
7. Return Chicken and Add Spinach
Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with fresh spinach. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese as desired.
9. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan, basil, or freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm with crusty bread or garlic toast.
10 Tips for the Best Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Use quality sundried tomatoes — packed in oil for richer flavor.
- Don’t rush the sautéing step; it builds flavor depth.
- Add broth gradually while whisking to ensure smooth texture.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to avoid curdling.
- Shred or cube chicken small for perfect bite-size pieces.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts more smoothly.
- Adjust consistency — add more broth for thinner soup, or simmer longer to thicken.
- Add spinach near the end to keep it bright and tender.
- Balance the saltiness — Parmesan adds salt, so taste before seasoning.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
10 Variations & Substitutions
- Crock Pot Version: Combine all ingredients except cream and cheese; cook LOW 6 hrs, then add cream and cheese at the end.
- No Pasta Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or more red pepper flakes.
- Mushroom Version: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy depth.
- Bacon Lover’s Twist: Add crispy bacon bits on top.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice instead.
- Extra Veggie: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Herb Boost: Add basil, oregano, or thyme for more aroma.
What to Serve With Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup (Step-by-Step)
- Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic butter rolls.
- Add a side salad with balsamic dressing for balance.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus.
- Offer grilled cheese or paninis for a cozy lunch.
- Finish with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
- For gatherings, serve with bruschetta or antipasto skewers.
Storage & Reheating Tips (Step-by-Step)
To Store
Cool completely, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze
Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
To Reheat (From Refrigerator)
Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
To Reheat (From Frozen)
Thaw overnight, then heat on the stovetop until hot and creamy again.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, it saves time and works perfectly.
- Can I skip sundried tomatoes? You can, but they’re key to the flavor.
- Can I make it spicy? Add more chili flakes or cayenne.
- Can I use milk instead of cream? Yes, but the soup will be lighter.
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead? Use diced tomatoes for a milder flavor.
- Can I use spinach substitutes? Kale or arugula also work well.
- Can I use leftover chicken? Yes, just stir it in during the final minutes.
- Can I make it vegetarian? Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use veggie broth.
- Can I cook the pasta separately? Yes, then add it before serving to avoid overcooking.
- Can I thicken the soup more? Simmer uncovered or add more Parmesan.
- Can I make it in an Instant Pot? Yes — cook 5 mins on HIGH, then stir in cream and cheese.
- Can I freeze with pasta? It’s better without — pasta gets mushy.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, roast or sauté them first for flavor.
- Can I add bacon? Absolutely, it adds smoky richness.
- Can I use cream cheese? Yes, for an even creamier base.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, great for meal prep.
- Can I use low-fat cream? Yes, though it’ll be less rich.
- Can I serve it over rice? Yes, for a heartier meal.
- Can I make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and vegan cheese.
- What’s the best pasta type? Small pasta like shells or ditalini holds the soup well.