Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting meal that packs a nutritional punch, you absolutely have to try this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein). It’s creamy and rich in flavor but surprisingly light, thanks to a clever blend of blended potatoes and fresh ingredients that keep it low in calories and fat. Plus, it’s a speedy dish that you can whip up in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a little extra warmth and nourishment in your life. Trust me, this soup feels like a hug in a bowl and might just become your next favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All ingredients in this Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Each component works harmoniously, from tender chicken to hearty potatoes, vibrant spinach, and sharp Parmesan cheese.

• 21 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star protein that keeps this soup hearty and satisfying.
• 2 yellow onions, chopped: For that sweet, aromatic base flavor that builds depth.
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a warm, fragrant punch that wakes up the taste buds.
• 2 potatoes (cut into both 1/4″ cubes and smaller cubes): The blend of textures, plus they’re the secret to creamy richness without cream.
• 2 packages (32-ounce) chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together softly.
• 5 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds a lovely tang and richness, intensifying the overall taste.
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds freshness and a lovely green color, plus vitamins.
• 1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely shredded: For that salty, nutty kick that makes the soup irresistible.
• 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta: Adds fun bite-sized morsels and helps soak up the soup’s flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: Brings herbal warmth and complexity.
• 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds smoky undertones and a hint of vibrant color.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (to adjust): Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your veggies and prepping your chicken. Wash and peel one potato and cut it into quarter-inch cubes, then dice the second potato into much smaller cubes—this contrast is crucial for both texture and creaminess. Dice your onions and mince the garlic so they’re ready to add in quick succession.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Potatoes for Maximum Flavor

Heat a pot on medium-high and add four tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the potatoes and stir to coat them well. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes until they turn beautifully golden on one side, then stir again to cook evenly. This step unlocks a lovely aroma and slight sweetness that makes all the difference.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Remove the potatoes and set them aside divided into their two size groups. In the same pot, add your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and tender, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma. Then add Italian seasoning and tomato paste, cooking everything together to deepen the flavors before adding liquids.

Step 4: Bring the Soup to Life

Next, stir in the smaller potato cubes, chicken broth, and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. Allow the soup to come to a boil, then use an immersion blender to puree it right in the pot until it’s silky smooth. This blending method makes the soup creamy without needing heavy cream, keeping it lighter but still luxuriously thick.

Step 5: Final Cooking and Adding Texture

Add back the larger potato cubes along with the uncooked medium shell pasta. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes or until the pasta and potatoes are tender but not mushy. Then toss in fresh baby spinach and season with kosher salt to your taste.

Step 6: Serve with Juicy Chicken

Turn off the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with the pan-fried chicken breast for an eye-catching and protein-rich finishing touch. This combo ensures every bite is loaded with delightful textures and flavor contrasts.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein)

Garnishes

This soup is fantastic with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra salty, creamy boost and some cracked black pepper for a little zing. You can also add fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of chili oil if you want a subtle heat to balance the richness.

Side Dishes

A warm slice of crusty bread or some garlic toast pairs perfectly with this soup since the bread is great for sopping up the silky broth. Light green salads or roasted veggies can complement the protein focus without weighing down your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for individual servings at dinner parties, or drizzle with a swirl of pesto to add color and herbaceous complexity. Layering the chicken on the side rather than on top also allows diners to customize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months but be cautious with the pasta as it may soften too much upon thawing. Consider freezing the soup base separately and cooking fresh pasta when reheating to retain its perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a wonderful time-saver and adds a depth of flavor. Just add it at the end to warm through without overcooking.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without dairy. The blended potatoes still keep the soup creamy.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

While this recipe is designed to be high protein with chicken, you can swap the chicken breast for plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

How can I increase the protein content even more?

To boost protein further, simply add more chicken, swap regular pasta for chickpea or lentil pasta, or toss in some cooked beans or lentils along with the spinach.

What is the best way to achieve the creamy texture without cream?

The secret is the two different potato cuts—the smaller cubes blend into a velvety base, enriching the soup naturally. Pan-frying the potatoes before blending also adds irresistible flavor without added fat.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe (High Protein) truly checks all the boxes for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal. It’s comforting yet light, simple to make yet impressive to serve. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this bowl of love-filled goodness that’s sure to keep you coming back for more. Go on, give it a try—you’re going to adore every spoonful!