This Marry Me Chicken Soup transforms the beloved flavors of the viral “Marry Me Chicken” into a soul-warming, Tuscan-inspired soup. Packed with juicy shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, pasta, and creamy Parmesan broth, it’s a hearty one-pot comfort meal you can whip up in just 30 minutes. It’s rich, cozy, and perfect for impressing guests—or winning hearts.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 8 oz dry ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)

• 3 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 medium carrots, chopped

• 3 celery stalks, chopped

• 8 garlic cloves, minced

• ¼ cup tomato paste

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried basil

• 1¼ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked)

• ¾ cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

• Chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Cook pasta according to package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Build the Base:
   Add tomato paste and butter. Stir until veggies are coated. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2–3 minutes.

4. Add Broth & Simmer:
   Pour in chicken broth, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Finish the Soup:
   Remove from heat. Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta. Mix well until cheese melts and soup is heated through.

6. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrients (per serving, yields 8 servings)

• Calories: 374 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 29g

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 693mg

The Origins of “Marry Me Chicken”

Before this soup version gained traction, the original Marry Me Chicken recipe gained viral fame as a skillet dish made with seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. The name playfully suggested the dish was so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal. It quickly became a hit for special occasions, date nights, and cozy dinners in.

This soup variation honors the same flavor profile but delivers it in a more casual, rustic format—perfect for those craving the richness of the original with the homey comfort of soup. It also adds pasta and vegetables, turning the dish into a more complete and filling meal while staying true to its romantic inspiration.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The Flavor Star

One of the standout ingredients in this soup is sun-dried tomatoes. Unlike fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes are concentrated in flavor, lending the broth a sweet, tangy richness that’s characteristic of Tuscan-style dishes. They’re sautéed along with the aromatics to allow their savory notes to infuse into the oil and deepen the base of the soup.

Using sun-dried tomato oil from the jar instead of standard olive oil amplifies this effect. It adds a subtle smokiness and complexity to the sautéed vegetables, elevating the flavor without extra effort. This single ingredient provides layers of umami that echo throughout the entire pot.

Aromatics and Italian Herbs for Depth

As with any good soup, the base begins with a medley of onions, carrots, and celery, often referred to as a mirepoix. These vegetables not only provide structure and sweetness but also absorb the oil and seasonings beautifully, becoming the foundation for a full-bodied broth.

The addition of garlic, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and basil brings that unmistakable Mediterranean character to the dish. These dried herbs are robust enough to withstand simmering without losing their flavor, which is essential for a soup that cooks relatively quickly. Together, they transform the broth into something aromatic, herbaceous, and savory with just the right hint of spice.

Creamy Parmesan Broth: Indulgent but Balanced

What gives Marry Me Chicken Soup its signature richness is the creamy Parmesan broth. A modest amount of heavy cream adds body and a velvety texture without making the soup overly thick or heavy. Meanwhile, freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts into the hot broth, creating a silky, cheesy finish that’s both comforting and elegant.

The cream and cheese not only add decadence but also help to tame the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall depth of flavor. Parmesan, in particular, brings a sharp nuttiness that complements the chicken and herbs, while also boosting the soup’s savory umami notes.

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative and vegan Parmesan. The soup remains luxurious and flavorful thanks to its layered base.

Shredded Chicken: Tender and Time-Saving

This recipe calls for shredded chicken, making it ideal for using rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. This shortcut saves time and enhances the soup’s accessibility for busy home cooks. The chicken is added at the end of the cooking process to prevent it from drying out, ensuring each bite remains tender and juicy.

Because the broth is already rich and flavorful, the chicken acts as a protein-packed vehicle to soak up all the aromatic goodness. You can also swap in turkey or even white beans for a vegetarian version, depending on your dietary needs.

Pasta: Hearty, Comforting, and Perfectly Sized

Ditalini pasta, with its small tubular shape, is ideal for soup. It holds broth well, cooks quickly, and adds heartiness without overpowering the other ingredients. Other small pastas like elbow macaroni, orzo, or mini shells would work equally well.

By cooking the pasta separately and stirring it in just before serving, you prevent it from becoming mushy in the broth. This technique also makes leftovers more appealing, as the pasta won’t continue to absorb liquid during storage.

The Perfect Bowl for Any Occasion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is ideal for just about any occasion. It’s easy enough for a weekday family dinner, yet impressive enough for hosting friends or celebrating a cozy anniversary meal at home. The name alone adds charm and intrigue, making it a fun conversation piece at the table.

The soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread, garlic knots, or a side of roasted vegetables. A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the broth and rounds out the meal. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy tomato base.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like many soups, Marry Me Chicken Soup tastes even better the next day. The flavors continue to meld, creating an even more flavorful experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If the pasta has soaked up too much broth, simply add a splash of water or broth when reheating. Warm the soup gently over medium-low heat to preserve its creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.

This soup also freezes well—just omit the pasta and dairy until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is more than just a cozy meal—it’s a celebration of everything we love about comfort food, elevated with Tuscan flair and romantic appeal. With sun-dried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan broth, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs, every bite is a rich and satisfying experience. It’s a bowl full of warmth, nostalgia, and just the right amount of indulgence—one that’s sure to win over hearts, appetites, and maybe even a few proposals along the way.

Whether you’re serving it to impress a loved one, bring comfort to a sick friend, or simply nourish yourself on a quiet night in, this soup is bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Warm, rich, and full of heart, Marry Me Chicken Soup is love at first spoonful.