The moment the first chill of autumn hits the air, my mind wanders to heartwarming meals that cradle me in comfort. Recently, I found myself longing for a bowl of soothing, homemade soup—something that warms not just the body, but the soul. Enter the Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup. It’s aptly named, as its creamy goodness and rich flavors have sent many a loved one into a swoon worthy of a proposal. Crafted with tender chicken, vibrant herbs, and gluten-free pasta, this recipe is a delightful medley that brings a twist to traditional chicken soup without compromising on flavor or texture. Imagine the scent of sautéed garlic mingling with sun-dried tomatoes as it simmers on the stove, coaxing everyone into the kitchen to share in the delicious anticipation. Ready in just one pot, this soup is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy dinner gatherings—because who doesn’t need a soul-soothing bowl of love?
Why is Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup envelops you in a world of creamy delight, perfect for chilly nights or when you need a pick-me-up.
Quick Preparation: With just one pot required, you can whip up this delicious meal in a snap, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
Flavorful Goodness: The unique blend of herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich chicken creates an irresistible taste that your family will adore.
Diet-Friendly: This dish fits perfectly into a gluten-free lifestyle—ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its delightful flavors and inviting aroma will have everyone gathering around the table, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends.
Elevate your supper with this heartwarming bowl of joy! For more comforting recipes, check out our delicious soups.
Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables for a flavorful foundation.
- Onion – Serves as the aromatic base; diced onion provides natural sweetness.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; minced garlic is sautéed to release its enticing aroma.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Contributes a tangy taste; fresh tomatoes can be substituted if needed.
- Tomato Paste – Provides depth to the flavor; essential for creating richness in the soup.
- Chicken Broth – The soup’s base; opt for low-sodium broth for less salt.
- Salt – Enhances flavors; adjust depending on the saltiness of your broth.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; fresh-ground pepper elevates the taste.
- Italian Seasoning Blend – Balances flavors with herbs; individual dried herbs can be used instead.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
For the Hearty Elements
- Gluten-Free Shell Pasta – Provides structure and heartiness; be sure to cook al dente as gluten-free pasta cooks faster.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken – The main protein; for convenience, rotisserie chicken is highly recommended.
- Baby Spinach – Adds freshness and nutrients; can easily be substituted with kale or arugula.
For the Creamy Texture
- Half and Half or Unsweetened Dairy-Free Creamer – Creates a luxurious creaminess; coconut cream is a great dairy-free option.
- Boursin Cheese – Adds a rich flavor; can substitute with cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative for similar results.
- Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor; use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly alternative.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with color and freshness; a delightful finishing touch.
- Crushed Red Pepper (for garnish) – Adds an extra kick of heat to enjoy at the table.
With all these ingredients at hand, you’re set to craft a delightful bowl of Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup that will bring warmth to your table!
How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup
Heat the Oil: In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat, letting its rich aroma fill the kitchen. This will be the perfect base for your delightful flavors.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing them to mingle for 1-2 minutes. This step deepens the flavor and adds a tangy twist.
Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, and add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching the magic happen.
Cook the Pasta: Toss in the uncooked gluten-free shell pasta, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is al dente—approximately 6-8 minutes—carefully keeping an eye on the texture.
Combine Hearty Ingredients: Lower the heat, then add the shredded chicken, baby spinach, half and half, Boursin cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is combined, and the ingredients melt together beautifully.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors just right.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crushed red pepper for a pop of color and extra warmth. Enjoy it hot!
Optional: Top with additional parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup?
As the aroma of this soul-soothing soup wafts through your home, it’s time to think about delightful companions that complete the meal.
Crusty Gluten-Free Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread’s crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. Every bite of bread scooped into the soup feels like a warm hug.
Simple Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed in a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the soup. The crispness balances the creamy notes beautifully.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These soft, cheesy bites are irresistible alongside your soup. Their buttery garlic flavor elevates each spoonful of soup, creating a comforting experience.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies offers a sweet and savory side, adding depth to your meal. Their caramelized edges provide a wonderful contrast to the soup’s velvety texture.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: Light and zesty, this fluffy quinoa introduces a hint of brightness that harmonizes with the rich chicken soup. The lemony flavor lifts the overall dish.
Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls add a touch of nostalgia and warmth. They are perfect for mopping up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
Sparkling Apple Cider: The bubbly sweetness of this drink acts as a refreshing palate cleanser and pairs wonderfully with the savory soup.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending to your meal, these classic cookies offer a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the soup’s richness, leaving everyone satisfied.
Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic to suit your taste buds and preferences!
Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy vegan option.
Herb Boost: Enhance flavor by adding fresh rosemary or thyme; they add incredible aroma and a unique depth to the soup.
Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or celery while sautéing the onions for added texture and nutrition—a win-win!
Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes before simmering for that extra zing.
Savory Additions: Craving more protein? Stir in cooked bacon or sausage slices for a smoky flavor twist that takes this dish to another level.
Switch the Pasta: Experiment with other gluten-free pasta shapes, like fusilli or zoodles, to keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time.
Lemon Zest: Brighten the soup by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a refreshing citrus note that dances on the palate.
Creamy Mushroom Variant: For an earthy flair, add sautéed mushrooms along with the onions to create a robustly flavored base—deliciously comforting!
Expert Tips for Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Pasta Timing: Add gluten-free shell pasta in the last few minutes to prevent overcooking, ensuring the perfect texture for your soup.
- Cream Caution: Slowly incorporate dairy ingredients over low heat to avoid curdling; this will keep your soup creamy and enjoyable.
- Spinach Techniques: Add spinach gradually, allowing each addition to wilt properly before piling on more; this ensures a delightful texture and flavor.
- Taste Test: Always taste your soup at the end to adjust seasoning wisely; remember, salty ingredients like cheese can significantly impact overall flavor.
- Ingredient Swap: For a hearty twist, feel free to replace rotisserie chicken with leftover grilled chicken or chicken thighs for added flavor in your homemade gluten-free Marry Me chicken soup.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, cook the pasta separately before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.
Serving Tip: Enjoy this comforting soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper, to elevate your dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the gluten-free shell pasta separately and store it for up to 3 days to ensure it stays al dente. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring your prepared base back to a simmer, add the broth and seasonings, and stir in the chicken and spinach along with the creamy ingredients. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready in no time, making those busy weeknights much easier!
Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Using shredded cooked chicken is ideal for this recipe, and I often recommend rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. However, if you have leftover grilled or baked chicken on hand, feel free to swap it in. Just ensure that it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy enjoyment.
How should I store leftovers of this soup?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy the soup at a later time, it freezes beautifully! Just ensure to freeze it in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. It’s best to cook the gluten-free pasta separately if you plan to freeze the soup to avoid it becoming mushy when reheated.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! To accommodate a dairy-free diet, simply use unsweetened dairy-free creamer instead of half and half, and substitute Boursin cheese with a dairy-free alternative like vegan cream cheese. Nutritional yeast can be a great plant-based substitute for parmesan cheese, enhancing the flavor without any dairy.
What should I do if my gluten-free pasta is overcooked?
If you find that your gluten-free pasta has overcooked and become mushy, don’t worry! Just add more broth to the soup, stir gently, and let it simmer for a few additional minutes to help meld the flavors together. You can also add some fresh or cooked vegetables to provide extra texture, which is great for improving the overall taste.
When is the best time to add spinach to the soup?
To ensure that the spinach retains its vibrant color and nutrients, I recommend adding it toward the end of the cooking process. Incorporate it after you add the shredded chicken and creamy elements, allowing it to wilt for just a few minutes. This way, you’ll have a lovely, bright addition that enhances both the flavor and visual appeal of your Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup!
Homemade Gluten-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Equipment
- large Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables.
- 1 medium Onion Diced, serves as aromatic base.
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced, enhances flavor.
- 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Contributes a tangy taste.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Provides depth to the flavor.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium broth.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on broth saltiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds a hint of heat.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Blend Balances flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.
For the Hearty Elements
- 1 cup Gluten-Free Shell Pasta Cook al dente as gluten-free pasta cooks faster.
- 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Rotisserie chicken is recommended.
- 2 cups Baby Spinach Can substitute with kale or arugula.
For the Creamy Texture
- 1 cup Half and Half or Unsweetened Dairy-Free Creamer Coconut cream is a great dairy-free option.
- 8 ounces Boursin Cheese Can substitute with cream cheese or dairy-free alternative.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for vegan alternative.
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley A delightful finishing touch.
- to taste Crushed Red Pepper For extra kick at the table.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat the Oil: In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat, letting its rich aroma fill the kitchen.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, allowing to mingle for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in chicken broth, add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Toss in uncooked gluten-free shell pasta, cooking until al dente, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Combine Hearty Ingredients: Lower the heat, then add shredded chicken, baby spinach, half and half, Boursin cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle warm soup into bowls, finishing with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper.