Ingredients
- Chicken BreastUse boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking and tender results.
- Butter and Olive OilWe start with a blend of butter for flavor depth and olive oil to prevent the butter from burning during the initial sauté.
- Aromatics (Shallots and Garlic)Finely dice fresh shallots and garlic; these form the crucial flavor foundation for the entire soup base.
- Chicken BrothUse high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth to control the final salt content while ensuring a rich, savory liquid base.
- Heavy CreamThis is essential for achieving the signature luxurious, silky, and creamy texture that defines a "Marry Me" dish.
- Sun-Dried TomatoesChop oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes finely; they provide a vital tangy burst and deep reddish-orange color.
- Seasonings (Dried Thyme and Oregano)These dried herbs are non-negotiable, imparting the classic savory, earthy notes required for the flavor profile.
- Fresh SpinachUse fresh baby spinach, stirring it in at the end until just wilted to maintain its bright green color and nutritional value.
- Parmesan CheeseFreshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, salty finish and helps thicken the soup slightly when stirred in.
Instructions
- Step 1: Sear and Sauté the Foundation
- Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Step 3: Simmer the Broth and Seasonings
- Step 4: Incorporate Creaminess and Chicken
- Step 5: Finish with Freshness
Notes
- If you plan on freezing the soup, store only the broth base first, and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese after thawing and reheating for the smoothest texture.
- Reheat any leftovers slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, and ensure the soup never comes to a rolling boil to prevent the creamy base from splitting.
- Serve this luxurious soup with thick slices of garlic bread or crusty sourdough for dipping, alongside a crisp, peppery arugula salad to balance the richness.
- For maximum flavor depth, sauté the sun-dried tomatoes with the shallots and garlic in Step 2; this slight toast enhances their tangy sweetness, which is crucial for cutting through the heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American