Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe | Easy Comfort Food

Cozy bowl of marry me chicken soup with creamy broth, tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Marry me chicken soup – creamy, savory, and irresistibly comforting. Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy dinner.

Catchy Opening & Hook

There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that feels like a hug in food form. Cozy, creamy, and brimming with flavor, this Marry Me Chicken Soup takes inspiration from the viral dish that captured hearts everywhere. The original skillet recipe became famous for its irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes — a dish so good, it earned the name “Marry Me Chicken.”

Now imagine those same flavors transformed into a hearty, soul-warming soup. Creamy broth, savory Parmesan, juicy chicken, and a touch of tang all come together in a way that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknights feel special and gatherings feel effortless. With every spoonful, you’ll taste why this soup is destined to become a new family favorite.

What Is Marry Me Chicken Soup?

The “Marry Me Chicken” trend began as a skillet dish that quickly went viral online. Its name came from the idea that the flavors were so irresistible, they could inspire a marriage proposal. The recipe featured juicy chicken simmered in a creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs — a perfect balance of richness and tang.

This soup version takes all those beloved elements and reimagines them in a cozy bowl. Instead of a skillet entrée, you get a creamy tomato base infused with garlic, onion, and herbs. Tender chicken simmers gently in the broth, soaking up all the flavors. Sun-dried tomatoes add their signature tang, while Parmesan lends savory depth.

The result is a soup that’s hearty yet elegant, perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions. It’s proof that viral recipes can evolve into timeless comfort food, bringing joy with every spoonful.

Why This Soup Wins Hearts

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup so special is its ability to straddle both comfort and sophistication. On one hand, it’s the ultimate cozy dinner — creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying. On the other, it’s elegant enough to serve to guests, with flavors that feel restaurant-worthy.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can make it on a busy weeknight without fuss, yet it’s equally at home on a holiday table or romantic dinner. The creamy tomato-Parmesan base feels indulgent, but the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs keeps it balanced.

Tip: The secret lies in the flavor harmony. Rich cream and cheese provide depth, while tangy tomatoes and fresh basil lift the dish, preventing it from feeling heavy. That balance is what makes people fall in love with it — and why it’s earned its “marry me” reputation.

Flavor Profile & Key Elements

The flavor profile of this soup is layered and irresistible. At its heart is a creamy broth made with Parmesan and cream, giving it a velvety texture and savory depth.

Sun-dried tomatoes bring tangy brightness, cutting through the richness and adding a slightly sweet, concentrated flavor. Garlic and onion form the aromatic base, while herbs like oregano and thyme add warmth and complexity.

For heartiness, pasta or rice can be added directly to the soup, turning it into a complete meal. Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work beautifully, while rice adds a comforting, rustic touch.

Pro Tip: Finish the soup with fresh basil just before serving. It adds a burst of freshness and color, elevating the dish from cozy to truly special.

Together, these elements create a soup that’s creamy, savory, tangy, and perfectly balanced — a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Nutritional & Health Benefits

While indulgent in flavor, Marry Me Chicken Soup offers plenty of nutritional perks. Chicken provides lean protein, keeping the dish satisfying and nourishing.

Spinach or other leafy greens can be stirred in for added vitamins, minerals, and fiber, boosting the soup’s nutritional profile without compromising flavor.

Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which supports heart health. They also add depth without the need for excessive salt.

Using bone broth as the base adds gut-friendly collagen and minerals, making the soup both flavorful and beneficial.

Altogether, this recipe strikes a balance between indulgence and wholesomeness. Cream and Parmesan lend richness, but the addition of lean protein, vegetables, and nutrient-dense broth ensures it’s a meal you can feel good about serving. It’s comfort food with a healthy twist — proof that cozy dinners can be both delicious and nourishing.

Cozy bowl of marry me chicken soup with creamy broth, tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe | Easy Comfort Food

This marry me chicken soup is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs simmer together to create a cozy bowl of comfort food. Quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American-Inspired, Italian-influenced comfort food
Servings 6 people as a main course.
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Ladle for serving

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1½ cups small pasta (orzo, shells, or ditalini) or rice
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken or bone broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  • Add chicken chunks, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Cook until lightly browned.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
  • Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add pasta (or rice) and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes.
  • Reduce heat and stir in cream and Parmesan until broth turns silky.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
  • Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
  • Expert Tip: Always taste the broth before serving — balance saltiness from Parmesan with brightness from tomatoes.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Cook base and add pasta fresh when reheating.
  • Storage: Refrigerate in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months; add fresh pasta when reheating.
  • Variations: Swap chicken for chickpeas, use rice instead of pasta, or add chili flakes for spice.
  • Tip: Add spinach or basil at the very end for vibrant color and flavor.
 
Keyword cozy weeknight dinner, creamy chicken soup, marry me chicken soup, sun-dried tomato chicken, viral recipe soup