Marry Me Chicken Soup: A Comfort Food Classic

Are you ready for a soup so comforting, so delicious, it’ll make you want to marry it? Then get ready for Marry Me Chicken Soup! This isn’t your grandma’s chicken noodle soup (though it’s definitely worthy of grandma’s praise). It’s a richer, more flavorful experience, packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles. It’s the perfect remedy for a chilly evening, a soothing balm for a cold, or simply a delicious meal to share with loved ones. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen – a symphony of chicken, herbs, and simmering broth. That’s the magic of Marry Me Chicken Soup, a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen and a favorite in your heart. We’re diving deep into this recipe, revealing all its secrets, and showing you how to achieve soup perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

This Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe isn’t just a bowl of warmth; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’ll quickly become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire:

• Unbelievably Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs (thyme and rosemary are key!), savory vegetables, and rich chicken broth creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s a far cry from bland, watery soups.
• Tender Chicken: Whether you use a whole chicken or individual thighs, the simmering process ensures incredibly tender, juicy chicken that shreds beautifully. It’s the perfect textural contrast to the al dente noodles.
• Easy to Make: While the simmering time is relatively long, the actual hands-on preparation is minimal. Most of the time, your soup is happily simmering away, leaving you free to tackle other tasks.
• Versatile & Customizable: This recipe is your blank canvas. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, experiment with different herbs, or even swap out the egg noodles for something else. The possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: Make a large batch of Marry Me Chicken Soup and enjoy it throughout the week. It freezes beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option.
• Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: This is the kind of soup that will impress everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s always a hit.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and essential nutrients from the broth, this soup is a satisfying and healthy meal choice.

Why You Should Try This Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, there are several compelling reasons to try this Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe:

• Exceptional Value: Using a whole chicken is an economical way to make a large quantity of soup. You’re getting maximum flavor and yield for your money.
• Stress-Free Cooking: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The minimal prep work and mostly hands-off cooking time make it an ideal choice when you’re short on time.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving (if there are any!). Enjoy it for lunch the next day, or use it as a base for other dishes.
• Improves with Age (slightly): The flavors meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. So don’t be afraid to make it ahead!
• A Recipe to Pass Down: This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to share with your family and friends. It’s a classic that will be treasured for generations.
• Adaptable to Dietary Needs: With a few simple substitutions, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free or vegetarian. We’ll cover those variations later in the article.
• A Taste of Home: This soup evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. It’s a delicious reminder of simple pleasures and good company.

Ingredients and Utensils for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Gathering the right ingredients and having the proper utensils are key to recipe success. Let’s start with a detailed list.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole roasting chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the show! A whole chicken is more economical but requires extra steps for shredding. Chicken thighs provide a richer, more flavorful broth. Keyword: Chicken Broth
• 12 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): Use a good quality broth for the best flavor. Low sodium gives you more control over the saltiness. Keyword: Chicken Broth Recipe, Homemade Chicken Broth
• 1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onion works well. Keyword: Chopped Onion
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Keyword: Chopped Carrots
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: A classic soup ingredient that adds a subtle earthy flavor. Keyword: Chopped Celery
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, savory aroma and flavor. Keyword: Minced Garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: An essential herb that provides an earthy, slightly lemony flavor. Keyword: Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a piney, slightly bitter aroma and flavor that complements the thyme. Keyword: Dried Rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste preference, keeping in mind the sodium content of your broth. Keyword: Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is best for a sharper flavor. Keyword: Black Pepper
• 1 cup uncooked egg noodles: Adds a satisfying chewiness to the soup. Keyword: Egg Noodles
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds brightness and freshness to the finished soup. Keyword: Fresh Parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (optional): A lovely addition for those who enjoy its bright, slightly anise-like flavor. Keyword: Fresh Dill
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): For sautéing the vegetables. Keyword: Olive Oil

Utensils:

• Large stockpot (8-quart or larger): To comfortably accommodate the chicken and all the ingredients. Keyword: Stockpot
• Large skillet: For sautéing the vegetables. Keyword: Skillet
• Cutting board: For chopping the vegetables. Keyword: Cutting Board
• Chef’s knife: For chopping the vegetables and shredding the chicken. Keyword: Chef’s Knife
• Garlic press (optional): For mincing the garlic more quickly and efficiently. Keyword: Garlic Press
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the soup. Keyword: Wooden Spoon
• Ladle: For serving the soup. Keyword: Ladle
• Colander: To drain the cooked noodles if needed. Keyword: Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements. Keyword: Measuring Cups
• Serving bowls: To enjoy your delicious soup! Keyword: Serving Bowls

Detailed Recipe Steps for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Let’s embark on the journey of creating this heartwarming soup. Follow these steps carefully for optimal results.

1. Cook the chicken: If using a whole chicken, place it in your large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. **Important:** Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the initial boil. This ensures a clearer broth. If using chicken thighs, skip to step 3. Keyword: Cooking Chicken
2. Remove and shred the chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the chicken meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. **Tip:** You can reserve some of the chicken broth for later use in other recipes. Keyword: Shredded Chicken
3. Sauté the vegetables: While the chicken is cooking (or cooling), heat a tablespoon of olive oil (optional) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. **Don’t overcook the vegetables; you want them tender-crisp.** Keyword: Sautéed Vegetables
4. Combine and simmer: Add the sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the stockpot (if using a whole chicken, you can leave the broth it cooked in). Add the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. **Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste preference at this stage.** Keyword: Simmering Soup
5. Add the noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cook according to package directions, until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite. **Tip:** Don’t overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat. Keyword: Cooking Noodles
6. Stir in the herbs: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and dill (if using). **Adding the fresh herbs at the end preserves their vibrant color and flavor.** Keyword: Fresh Herbs
7. Serve: Ladle the hot Marry Me Chicken Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired. **Enjoy your delicious, comforting soup!** Keyword: Serving Soup

Tips and Variations for Marry Me Chicken Soup

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Marry Me Chicken Soup experience:

• Ingredient Alternatives: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, or peas would all be delicious additions.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! A bay leaf, a sprig of fresh sage, or even a pinch of oregano would add unique layers of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Or try a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free noodles for the egg noodles. Look for noodles made from rice, quinoa, or corn.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: Replace the chicken with 1-2 cups of cooked lentils, or 1 cup of cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan version) at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the vegetables or noodles. Overcooked vegetables will become mushy, and overcooked noodles will lose their texture.
• Salt to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. The saltiness can vary depending on the chicken broth you use.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Soup

This Marry Me Chicken Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients! While precise nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general overview of the benefits:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a significant source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables contribute a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A (from carrots), vitamin C (from celery), and potassium (from both carrots and celery).
• Good Source of Fiber: The vegetables also contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
• Comforting and Hydrating: The warm broth is incredibly hydrating and can be especially beneficial when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Low in Fat (depending on preparation): When made with lean chicken and without added cream, this soup is relatively low in fat.
• Antioxidant Benefits: The herbs (thyme and rosemary) possess antioxidant properties that can help protect your cells from damage.

Note: For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities you used.

FAQs about Marry Me Chicken Soup

Conclusion: Fall in Love with Marry Me Chicken Soup

This Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavor, tender chicken, and ease of preparation make it a perfect weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend indulgence. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and herbs to personalize this recipe and make it your own. We encourage you to try it, share your experience in the comments below, and let us know how your Marry Me Chicken Soup turned out! Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations on Pinterest! Check out other delicious recipes on our blog, like this moist chocolate chip pumpkin bread, perfect for a cozy fall afternoon. And for a lighter dessert option, try our skinny pumpkin fluff!

Happy cooking!

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A comforting and flavorful chicken soup perfect for a cozy night in. This easy recipe is packed with vegetables and tender chicken.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 Whole Roasting Chicken (3-4 lbs) OR 8 Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs
• 12 cups Chicken Broth (low sodium)
• 1 Large Onion chopped
• 2 Carrots peeled and chopped
• 2 Celery Stalks chopped
• 4 Garlic Cloves minced
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 cup Egg Noodles uncooked
• 0.5 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
• 0.25 cup Fresh Dill chopped (optional)

Equipment

• Large Stockpot
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

Instructions

1. If using a whole chicken, place it in a large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until cooked through and easily shreds. If using chicken thighs, skip to step 3.
2. Remove chicken from pot and let cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat, discarding skin and bones.
3. Heat olive oil (optional) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the stockpot (if using whole chicken, you can use the broth it cooked in). Add shredded chicken. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in egg noodles and cook according to package directions until tender.
6. Stir in parsley and dill (if using).
7. Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs. You can also add other vegetables like potatoes or zucchini. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.