Ret Soup
Introduction
This creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a dish that will make everyone fall in love with its taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 tsp dried oregano (2 g)
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (1 g)
800 ml low-sodium chicken broth
200 ml heavy cream
100 g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
150 g baby spinach
50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cubed chicken breast, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the broth.
7. Adjust seasoning if necessary and let the soup sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken breast, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned.
Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 6: Stir in Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Add Spinach and Parmesan
Add the baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the broth.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Adjust seasoning if necessary and let the soup sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.
Customizations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers, or substitute the chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your spice preference.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the Marry Me Chicken Soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you wish to freeze the soup, ensure it is completely cooled before pouring it into a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also serve it over cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal. Garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be added for a touch of freshness.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately):
– Calories: 420
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 3g
– Total Fat: 28g
– Saturated Fat: 15g
– Sodium: 600mg
This soup is a great source of protein from the chicken and provides healthy fats from the cream and olive oil, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredient Substitutions
– **Olive Oil**: Can be replaced with butter or avocado oil for a different flavor.
– **Chicken Breast**: Thighs or rotisserie chicken can be used for a juicier option.
– **Heavy Cream**: Coconut cream or half-and-half can be used for a lighter version or dairy-free alternative.
– **Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: Fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers can be used instead.
– **Baby Spinach**: Kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for added nutrition.
– **Parmesan Cheese**: Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option, or any other hard cheese you prefer.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is the technique of cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over high heat. In this recipe, the onions and garlic are sautéed to enhance their flavors and create a fragrant base for the soup.
Braising
Braising involves cooking meat slowly in a liquid. After browning the chicken, it simmers in chicken broth, allowing it to absorb flavors and become tender.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking at a low heat where small bubbles rise gently to the surface. This technique is used to cook the chicken through and meld the flavors of the ingredients without boiling, which can toughen the meat.
Incorporating
Incorporating refers to the process of gently mixing ingredients to combine them thoroughly. When adding the spinach and Parmesan cheese, stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a creamy texture.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the art of adding finishing touches to a dish for visual appeal and flavor. In this recipe, fresh basil is used as a garnish to enhance presentation and add a burst of freshness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor, but cooking times may vary slightly due to the difference in meat texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk as a substitute, but the soup may have a different consistency and flavor.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or over rice for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth and comfort. With its rich and creamy texture, combined with the flavorful notes of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, this soup is sure to bring a smile to any table. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with loved ones, it will undoubtedly make your guests fall in love with your cooking.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Soup
Swap the sun-dried tomatoes for sautéed mushrooms to create a delightful twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken Soup. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy broth.
Spicy Taco Chicken Soup
Add in some taco seasoning and a can of black beans for a zesty kick. Top with avocado slices and cilantro for a refreshing finish.
Lemon Herb Chicken Soup
For a brighter flavor, incorporate fresh lemon juice and zest along with chopped dill. This will bring a refreshing tang that enhances the creaminess of the soup.
Vegetarian Marry Me Soup
Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version. Add more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for variety.
Italian Sausage Chicken Soup
Mix in crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier version. The savory sausage flavor will elevate the soup’s profile, making it even more satisfying.
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Soup
Incorporate artichoke hearts alongside spinach for a rich and creamy soup inspired by the classic dip. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
