If you’re looking for a soup so delicious it might just earn you a marriage proposal, this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup is the one! This creamy and flavorful soup brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a rich, savory broth. It’s a slow-cooked masterpiece that’s perfect for cozy dinners, busy weeknights, or meal prepping.
Let your slow cooker do the hard work while you enjoy the heavenly aromas filling your home. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making this unforgettable soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Effortless Slow-Cooking
Let your crockpot do the work while you go about your day. You’ll come home to a deliciously creamy soup that’s ready to enjoy.
2. Rich, Indulgent Flavor
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible.
3. Comforting and Satisfying
This soup is a warm, creamy hug in a bowl, making it perfect for cold days or when you need a little extra comfort.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and can be frozen for future meals.
5. Crowd-Pleaser
This soup is so flavorful and satisfying that it’s sure to impress everyone at the table — it might even lead to a marriage proposal!
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained if packed in oil)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Thickening (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for serving
For another creamy chicken dish, check out this creamy chicken and vegetable soup for a comforting alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the thyme, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Soup
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred apart.
3. Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.
4. Add the Cream and Parmesan
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the crockpot. Let it cook for another 20-30 minutes until the soup thickens.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
For another rich and creamy recipe, try this creamy chicken carbonara for a quick weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
1. Crusty Bread
Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the creamy broth.
2. Fresh Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Serve with a side of oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for added nutrition.
4. Rice or Quinoa
Spoon the soup over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
5. Pasta
Serve the soup with a side of buttered pasta for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
For another hearty soup, check out this chicken tortilla soup for a zesty, comforting meal.
Recipe Variations
1. Add Vegetables
Incorporate spinach, kale, or peas for extra greens and nutrients.
2. Make It Spicier
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
3. Use Different Cheeses
Swap out Parmesan for Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
4. Dairy-Free Option
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
5. Protein Variations
Try this recipe with boneless pork chops or turkey breasts for a different twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup
1. Choose the Right Chicken
For the best flavor and texture, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They remain tender and juicy during the slow cooking process. However, if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work well too.
2. Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs
While dried herbs are convenient, finishing the soup with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, basil, or parsley right before serving adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
To avoid dry chicken, stick to the recommended cooking times. Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked, so aim for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH.
4. Balance Creaminess and Tang
The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese gives the soup its signature richness. The sun-dried tomatoes add a touch of tanginess. For an extra burst of flavor, a splash of white wine or lemon juice can brighten up the dish.
5. Add a Crunchy Element
Top each serving with a handful of crispy bacon bits or croutons for added texture and flavor contrast.
Make It a Full Meal
1. Appetizer Ideas
- Bruschetta: A simple tomato and basil bruschetta adds a fresh, zesty start to your meal.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots pair perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a light and refreshing appetizer.
2. Side Dishes
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with oven-roasted asparagus, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with baby greens, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, cheesy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
3. Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the rich flavors of the soup.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing contrast.
- Iced Tea: A cold glass of unsweetened iced tea pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flavor
Elevate your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup with these garnishes:
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil, parsley, or thyme for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Extra cheese sprinkled on top for added richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
- Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a savory crunch.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing
- To Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Thaw: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Shredding the Chicken Properly
Shred the chicken thoroughly so it absorbs the creamy broth. This ensures each bite is full of flavor.
2. Skipping the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy depth that balances the richness of the cream. Don’t skip them!
3. Adding Dairy Too Early
Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking to prevent curdling. Letting the soup cool slightly before adding dairy helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Using Pre-Grated Cheese
For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may contain additives that prevent smooth melting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Soup on the Stovetop?
Yes! Simmer all the ingredients (except the cream and Parmesan) in a large pot over medium heat for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken, then stir in the cream and cheese.
2. How Do I Make It Dairy-Free?
Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I Add Pasta or Rice?
Absolutely! Add cooked pasta or rice in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a heartier meal.
4. Is This Soup Spicy?
The red pepper flakes give a subtle heat. For a milder version, omit them. To make it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
5. Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Yes! Try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a twist on the classic flavor.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Love and Comfort
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup is a rich, creamy, and savory dish that’s sure to win over anyone who tastes it. With its tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and herb-infused broth, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone, your family, or just yourself, this soup delivers effortless comfort and flavor.
Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a glass of wine, and you have a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion. For more comforting slow-cooker recipes, try this chicken tortilla soup for another flavorful favorite.
Enjoy every spoonful of this love-filled soup!