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Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring constantly. Let the tomato paste cook until it deepens in color, about 2 minutes, which enhances its sweetness and richness.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add fresh basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Cook the Pasta: Once the soup reaches a boil, add the pasta directly into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for about 12 minutes, or until it is al dente.
- Finish with Spinach and Chicken: Reduce the heat to low and add in the chopped spinach and shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir in the cubed cream cheese, allowing it to melt into the broth. Continue to simmer until the spinach wilts and the soup is creamy and well-blended.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional red pepper flakes. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for a finishing touch.
Cooking Tips:
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the soup. This will help it melt smoothly without leaving lumps in the broth.
- Pasta Alternatives: While medium shells are perfect for this soup, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini farfalle. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of red pepper flakes and gradually increase to taste.
Helpful Tips:
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, feel free to use leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Simply shred the meat and add it during the final steps of cooking.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings (about 2 cups per serving)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort food, chicken-based
Notes:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I substitute chicken breasts for rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs, then add them to the soup. For convenience, rotisserie chicken is a great option, but cooked chicken from scratch works just as well. - What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would make great additions to this soup. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe. - How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or let the soup simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken the base.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken Soup is a flavorful and hearty meal that combines the best elements of a rich chicken dish into a soul-warming soup. Perfect for both special occasions and simple weeknight dinners, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread for a truly satisfying experience!
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