There’s something special about a recipe that feels like a warm hug, and Marry Me Chicken Soup is exactly that. Inspired by the viral skillet version, this soup transforms the same creamy, savory flavors into a cozy one-pot meal perfect for any season. Created by Jano Ferrel, it brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and tortellini in a garlic-herb cream broth.
Why is it called “Marry Me”? Simple. It’s so rich, comforting, and delicious that people say it could inspire a proposal. Whether you’re serving it for a quiet dinner, a chilly night in, or someone in need of comfort food, this soup delivers warmth in every bite.
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients, smart cooking techniques, serving tips, and even its healthful side. Once you taste it, Marry Me Chicken Soup just might earn a permanent spot in your recipe box.
- The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Ingredients & Prep of Marry Me Chicken Soup
- The Best Cooking Techniques for Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Serving, Storage, and Surprising Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Conclusion: A Soup That’s Cozy, Creamy, and Unforgettable
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken Soup
Why it’s called “Marry Me Soup”
The name “Marry Me Chicken” started as a fun internet phrase. The idea was that the creamy, dreamy flavors were so good, someone might propose after tasting it. This soup version follows the same spirit, it’s romantic, irresistible, and rich in flavor. Jano Ferrel first made this variation on a chilly fall afternoon, blending the flavors of the original dish with the warmth and comfort of homemade soup.
The first spoonful was enough to seal the deal: creamy broth, tender chicken, parmesan, and tortellini, it was everything a cozy meal should be. The result? It quickly earned its name. “You could fall in love over this,” Jano laughed, and the name stuck.
Since then, it’s been the soup of choice for date nights at home, rainy days, and even casual dinners when something special is needed without a lot of fuss.
A soup that feels like a hug
What makes this Marry Me Chicken Soup truly special is the depth of flavor built into every step. It starts with seasoned chicken seared in the oil from sun-dried tomatoes, already a flavor booster. Then comes the wine, garlic, tomato paste, herbs, and broth. A splash of cream and a generous handful of parmesan turns it into the creamy base you crave.
Spinach adds a hint of earthiness, and the tortellini brings in that soft, cheesy bite that makes every bowl feel like a meal on its own.
Looking for more comfort-in-a-bowl recipes? Don’t miss our rich and flavorful creamy tomato basil tortellini or the soul-soothing chicken noodle soup. And if you’re craving something bold, the creamy cowboy soup will hit the spot.
Ingredients & Prep of Marry Me Chicken Soup
The Ingredients That Make It So Addictive
This soup blends the heart of the original Marry Me Chicken with everything you love in a warm, creamy bowl of soup. Every ingredient has a purpose, and together, they build a rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Here’s what you’ll need to make Marry Me Chicken Soup:
- 1¼ lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts – juicy and tender, the base of the dish
- Salt and pepper, to taste – simple but essential seasoning
- 1½ tsp Italian seasoning – adds depth with basil, oregano, and thyme
- 2 tbsp oil from sun-dried tomato jar – flavor-packed cooking fat
- ¾ cup dry white wine – deglazes the pan and adds brightness
- 3 tbsp butter – for richness and flavor
- 1 yellow onion, diced – builds aromatic base
- 1 (8 oz.) jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped – adds tangy sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – a flavor essential
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – gives depth and color to the broth
- ¾ tsp each: dried basil, oregano, and parsley – enhances the Italian flavors
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – a subtle, savory punch
- 1 tsp honey – balances acidity
- 5 cups chicken broth + 1 bouillon cube – gives the soup a full-bodied, meaty flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream – brings that velvety texture
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – melts perfectly into the broth
- 10 oz. cheese tortellini – tender, cheesy bites that complete the soup
- 3 cups packed baby spinach – adds freshness and balance
If you’re someone who tracks nutrition, the base ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan can be found in the USDA FoodData Central for accurate nutrition details.
Quick Prep Tips
- Season your chicken well before searing—it adds flavor to both meat and broth.
- Use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes instead of plain olive oil. It’s loaded with flavor and makes a difference.
- Deglaze with wine after searing. This lifts all the tasty bits from the pan and brings a lovely brightness to the soup.
- If you’re dairy-free or lightening up the recipe, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream, and skip the tortellini or swap with gluten-free pasta.
Want another creamy, hearty dinner idea? Try our creamy mushroom pasta, it’s earthy, indulgent, and perfect for a cozy night in.
The Best Cooking Techniques for Marry Me Chicken Soup
Searing and Simmering: The Flavor Foundation
Building layers of flavor is what makes Marry Me Chicken Soup truly special. Every step matters, and here’s how to get it right:
1. Sear the chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season it generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. It doesn’t need to cook through completely yet—just build that flavorful crust. Set aside and let it rest before dicing.
2. Deglaze with wine
Pour in ¾ cup of dry white wine and reduce the heat to medium. Use a spatula to scrape up all the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pot. This step adds rich flavor depth to your soup base.
3. Build the base
Add 3 tablespoons butter and 1 diced onion. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce and the onions to soften. Then add drained sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, tomato paste, dried herbs, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir and cook for 5 more minutes.
Blending, Finishing & Smart Timing
4. Blend the broth
Add 5 cups of chicken broth and 1 bouillon cube. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth. This gives the soup a velvety base before cream is even added.
5. Simmer the chicken
Return the diced chicken (plus any juices) to the pot. Simmer gently for 15 minutes, partially covered. Don’t let it boil—low and slow keeps the chicken tender and the broth rich.
6. Add cream and cheese
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup cool for about a minute. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese. This method keeps the sauce smooth and avoids curdling.
7. Finish with tortellini and spinach
Add in 10 oz. of tortellini and simmer until tender. In the last minute, stir in 3 cups of baby spinach until just wilted.
Serving, Storage, and Surprising Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup
The Comfort and Nutritional Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup
Beyond its rich flavor and creamy texture, Marry Me Chicken Soup offers real comfort and nourishment. The broth is hydrating and soothing, perfect for colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather. Garlic, oregano, and parsley not only add flavor, they also bring natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that support the immune system. The baby spinach adds iron and fiber, while the protein from chicken helps keep you full and satisfied.
Even the creamy elements like parmesan and heavy cream, in moderation, provide calcium and fat for energy and warmth. When served warm, the steam and savory depth can help open sinuses and make breathing easier, especially during seasonal colds. Whether you’re looking to cozy up or need something healing, this Marry Me Chicken Soup checks every box. And if you’re exploring more recipes with functional comfort, check out our lentil and spinach soup for an anti-inflammatory boost.
Serving & Storage Tips of Marry Me Chicken Soup
How to serve:
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own, but if you’d like to round it out, serve it with warm garlic bread, a light arugula salad, or a slice of crusty sourdough. Garnish with a few extra sun-dried tomato bits, a sprinkle of parmesan, and cracked black pepper for an elegant touch.
How to store:
If you plan to have leftovers, boil the tortellini separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from getting mushy. The soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen without the tortellini for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each one.
Best soup to break up mucus?
This isn’t a medical claim, but the warmth of Marry Me Chicken Soup, with its broth, garlic, and herbs, can help soothe sore throats or ease congestion. Garlic and oregano are known for their natural antimicrobial properties, while hot broth helps thin mucus and hydrate the body. For more science-based insights on how warm foods support health, check out Healthline Nutrition.
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat reserved sun-dried tomato oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 mins per side. Remove and rest for 10 minutes, then dice.
- Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up the browned bits.
- Add butter and diced onion. Cook 10 minutes until softened.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, tomato paste, dried herbs, Dijon, and honey. Stir and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and bouillon. Blend the broth using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add diced chicken and simmer 15 minutes, partially covered.
- Reduce heat to low. Let soup cool 1 minute. Stir in cream and parmesan.
- Add tortellini and simmer until cooked.
- Stir in spinach last minute until wilted. Serve hot!
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Soup
What is in Marry Me Chicken soup?
It’s a flavorful blend of seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, Italian herbs, tortellini, and a creamy broth made with chicken stock, white wine, and heavy cream. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and balance at the end.
Why is it called “marry me soup”?
The name comes from its famously rich and comforting flavor—so good, people joke it could inspire a marriage proposal. With every spoonful delivering warmth, creaminess, and a bit of savory magic, it’s a dish that feels like love in a bowl.
What is the best soup to break up mucus?
While not a cure, warm soups like this one can help soothe and hydrate when you’re feeling under the weather. The hot broth, garlic, and oregano may offer mild support for clearing sinuses, especially when paired with proper hydration and rest.
Who made Marry Me Chicken famous?
Marry Me Chicken became popular thanks to food bloggers and viral TikTok videos, but the original recipe is most often credited to Delish.com. The dish went viral for its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s so good, it could spark a proposal—hence the playful name. Many variations now exist, including this cozy soup version created by Jano Ferrel here at Millow Dishes.
Conclusion: A Soup That’s Cozy, Creamy, and Unforgettable
From the very first spoonful, Marry Me Chicken Soup proves why it deserves its name. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with just the right balance of savory depth and herby brightness. With soft tortellini, tender chicken, and velvety parmesan broth, every bite feels like comfort made easy.
This is more than a trendy dish, it’s a recipe that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a partner, a friend who needs cheering up, or simply treating yourself, this Marry Me Chicken Soup always hits the mark. The simple ingredients and step-by-step method make it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
Serve it fresh with crusty bread, store it for easy weekday meals, or freeze a batch for later. It’s a one-pot meal with flavor, love, and practicality.
