Cozy and Amazing Marry Me Chicken Soup

Name: Cozy and Amazing Marry Me Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato pesto; 1 cup ditalini pasta; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Heartwarming Chicken Soup Recipe

Hola! My heart dances to the tune of Mexico’s vibrant and comforting flavors, which fill my childhood memories with joy. Growing up in Orlando, my happiest moments were spent by my mama’s side, pressing tortillas and mastering spices with my abuela. Those cherished kitchens taught me that food is a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and shared stories. Although I still call Orlando home, a piece of me lingers in Oaxaca’s lively mercados and the comforting embrace of my abuela’s kitchen. Join me in exploring authentic Mexican recipes, from cozy tamales to quick street bites, lovingly perfected in my home.

Marry Me Chicken Soup captures all that warmth and richness in each comforting spoonful. This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, luscious cream cheese, and a burst of sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a soul-nourishing broth. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or seeking a cozy meal for yourself, this soup promises to wrap you in a warm hug, making it a must-try in any season.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Mexican
Best Season: Year-Round

Reasons to Love This Dish

Flavor Explosion: Marry Me Chicken Soup is a celebration of flavors, combining tangy sun-dried tomatoes with rich cream cheese for a taste that dances on your palate.
Effortless Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, especially with an Instant Pot, allowing you more time to savor and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quiet night in, a family gathering, or a potluck, this soup is versatile enough to impress any crowd.
Comforting and Nourishing: With rustic roots and heartwarming ingredients, this dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and love served in a bowl.

Essential Ingredients

1 pound chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Ingredients Insights

Chicken Breasts: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken for the most tender results. Lean cuts like chicken thighs work well for a richer flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Choose a brand without additives to let the natural tomato flavor shine through.
Cream Cheese: Look for full-fat cream cheese for a silkier broth, but lower-fat options can work too.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: This can be homemade or store-bought, giving a depth of flavor; adjust based on your preferred level of tang.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Combine Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, add the chicken breasts, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cream cheese, sun-dried tomato pesto, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Set the Cooker: Close the lid securely and select ‘soup’ or manual pressure for 15 minutes to cook the chicken to perfection.
Shred the Chicken: Once the timer goes off, carefully release the pressure and shred the chicken right in the pot for maximum flavor absorption.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the ditalini pasta and switch to the sauté function for an additional 8-10 minutes, allowing the pasta to become al dente.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot for a comforting bowl of pleasure.

Smart Cooking Insights

Be Mindful of Timing: Ensure not to overcook the pasta during the sauté phase; check it a minute or two before it’s recommended to avoid a mushy texture.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale during the last few minutes for a nutritional bump.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavors of this dish shine the most when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients, making all the difference.

Creative Variations to Try

Vegan Alternative: Substitute chicken for chickpeas or lentils, use coconut cream in place of cream cheese, and vegetable broth for a plant-based delight.
Mild Version: To keep the heat down, reduce the basil and choose low-acid diced tomatoes, ensuring the soup remains gentle on the palate.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the pot for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Regional Twist: Incorporate fresh ingredients from your locale, such as adding corn and cilantro for a Southwest feel.

Perfect Pairings

Looking for delicious accompaniments? Serve your Marry Me Chicken Soup with thick slices of crusty bread for dipping. A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette pairs beautifully, complimenting the richness of the soup. For a sweet end, consider offering desserts like tres leches cake or flan.

Prep in Advance & Freezer-Friendly Tips

To prep ahead, you can chop all the vegetables and pre-measure your ingredients for quicker assembly during meal time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, freeze individual portions; they should keep for up to 3 months. Just reheat using the microwave or stovetop, adding a little extra broth to maintain the texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an inviting table, ladle the Marry Me Chicken Soup into rustic bowls, garnish it with fresh basil, and serve with crusty rolls. Light some candles for that cozy ambiance and a touch of romance. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper on top adds an appealing touch and aroma.

Culinary Secrets to Streamline Cooking

Prep Ingredients First: Get all your ingredients washed, chopped, and ready to minimize mess and make cooking seamless.
Manage Leftovers Wisely: Always save some cooked chicken and broth; this can be transformed into another delightful meal or soup, saving you precious time.
Stock on Essentials: Keep a stash of pasta, chicken, and a variety of canned goods on hand to whip this dish up whenever you crave a comforting meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it thickens, add a splash of broth to restore the creamy texture.

Common Queries Answered

Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure your pot has enough capacity, or divide it into batches.
Is this soup gluten-free? Use gluten-free ditalini or another gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a delicious option.
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but cook it longer in the Instant Pot; add an additional 5-7 minutes for fully cooked meat.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients until the chicken is cooked through, then shredding and adding pasta towards the end.
Is it suitable for meal prepping? Yes! Just keep the pasta separate until reheating to keep it from getting too soft.
How can I adjust the creaminess? If you prefer a richer soup, add more cream cheese or finish with a drizzle of heavy cream before serving.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 400
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

A Warm Reflection

In every bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, there lies a whisper of family traditions and culinary heritage. Food is poetry, and through this recipe, we bring together flavors that ignite laughter and love at the table. Expressing affection through meals connects us to our roots while creating new memories to cherish forever.

Ending on a Delicious Note

As you prepare and savor your bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, let each bite remind you of its story—one of warmth, love, and vibrant flavors. We invite you to try this comforting dish, share it with loved ones, and pin this recipe for easy access whenever you crave a cozy hug in a bowl. Happy cooking!