Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup that’s packed with nutritious goodness, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein). It’s creamy, hearty, and full of vibrant flavors that come together in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-warming meal to share, this soup perfectly balances tender chicken, tender potatoes, fresh spinach, and cheesy richness—all with a boost of protein that will keep you satisfied and energized.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) shine. Each choice plays an essential role, from building creamy texture to lifting layers of savory flavor and adding a pop of bright green color.
- 21 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or shredded rotisserie chicken: Provides the star protein, juicy and tender, perfect for every comforting spoonful.
- 2 chopped yellow onions: Bring sweetness and depth through slow sautéing until translucent.
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a warm, aromatic kick that wakes up the entire soup.
- 2 potatoes (cut into 1/4″ and smaller cubes): The larger cubes add texture, while the smaller ones blend into a naturally creamy base.
- 2 packages (32-ounce) chicken broth: Rich and savory, it forms the flavor-packed foundation.
- 5 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a gentle umami and vibrant color boost.
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach: A fresh, nutrient-packed green to brighten and balance every bite.
- 1 ½ ounces finely shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish): Melts into luscious creaminess with a subtle salty tang.
- 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta: The perfect bite-sized pasta to soak up all that delicious broth.
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: Herbs that bring warmth and herbaceous layers of flavor.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, adjust to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the ingredients.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: For pan-frying potatoes and sautéing onions, enhancing aroma and texture.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein)
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by carefully washing and peeling your potatoes. Cut one potato into 1/4-inch cubes—the chunkier pieces that will give you delightful texture—while the other potato is chopped into smaller cubes destined to be blended into the soup’s creamy base. This dual texture technique is a clever way to get creaminess without any cream.
Step 2: Sauté Potatoes for Maximum Flavor
Heat your pot over medium-high and add olive oil before tossing in all the potatoes. Stir-fry them for a minute to coat evenly, then let them sit without stirring for two minutes. This step allows the potatoes to develop a gorgeous golden brown crust, unlocking their natural sweetness and creating complex layers you’ll taste in each spoonful. After browning, set them aside into two separate portions based on size.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Cooking until the onions become translucent intensifies their natural sweetness and fills your kitchen with that irresistible savory aroma we all love. This step is vital because it forms the flavorful backbone of your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein).
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and tomato paste, letting them cook for about a minute. This deepens the flavor by gently toasting the tomato paste and awakening the herbs. Next, add the smaller potato cubes, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. When the soup reaches a boil, use an immersion blender to blend the smaller potatoes into a silky, velvety texture. This natural creaminess is what makes this soup truly special.
Step 5: Add Texture and Protein
Return the larger potato cubes to the pot along with the uncooked shell pasta. Boil everything together until the pasta and potatoes are tender, which usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Then, toss in the fresh baby spinach and salt to taste to brighten the soup and bring a burst of green freshness.
Step 6: Top with Juicy Chicken
Finally, spoon your rich and creamy soup into bowls and place the cooked chicken breast on top. Whether you pan-fry it yourself for tenderness or use shredded rotisserie chicken, this final touch adds the high-protein star and makes every bite unforgettable.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein)
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra finely shredded Parmesan on top adds a lovely salty finish and an inviting visual pop. Fresh cracked black pepper and freshly chopped parsley make the dish look fresh and give subtle herbal notes that complement the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal on its own, but serving it alongside crunchy garlic bread or a fresh green salad creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The bread’s crispness pairs so wonderfully with the creamy soup, making for a satisfying dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every bit of that delicious broth. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and flair. It’s a simple way to elevate your Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) into a restaurant-worthy experience at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal just as comforting as the first.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the creamy texture and the tender chicken.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up. Avoid microwaving for the best texture maintenance.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While medium shell pasta works wonderfully here, feel free to substitute with small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Just keep cooking times in mind to avoid overcooking.
Is this soup dairy-free?
This recipe includes Parmesan cheese which adds creamy richness. To make it dairy-free, you can either skip the cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan substitute, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
Can I use frozen chicken?
You can, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed and drained to avoid extra liquid in your soup. Cooking fresh or rotisserie chicken is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when you add the paprika and dried herbs. That will give the soup a nice warming kick without overpowering its comforting character.
Can I prepare this soup vegetarian?
While the traditional recipe relies on chicken broth and chicken, you can swap these for vegetable broth and add hearty beans or tofu for protein to create a vegetarian twist. Adjust seasonings to taste for a flavorful alternative.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) that makes it a reliable favorite to reach for any day of the week. Easy, nourishing, and bursting with flavor, it perfectly balances creamy comfort with high-protein goodness. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy classic too.
