If you are craving rich comfort food that feels special without being complicated, this Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup Made Simple recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by the beloved Marry Me Chicken flavors, this soup delivers tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a velvety cream base that tastes like it simmered all day because it did.
This recipe is designed for busy home cooks who want big flavor with minimal effort. Toss everything into the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come home to a warm, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup
This soup has all the charm of the classic Marry Me Chicken dish but in cozy, spoonable form. Here is why it earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker method
- Rich, creamy texture without complicated steps
- Bold flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning
- Family-friendly and easy to customize
- Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and freezing
It feels indulgent yet approachable, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or comforting lunches.
Ingredients for Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup
Soup Base Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Creamy Finish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.75 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
Optional Garnishes
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for serving
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Chicken breasts can be swapped for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter soup, though the texture will be slightly thinner.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil give the best flavor. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them first.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale, chopped small, for a heartier green.
- Dairy-free option: Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
This recipe contains no alcohol or pork. If adapting versions that include bacon, smoked turkey or mushrooms work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and easy to shred.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer chunkier soup. Return the chicken to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish
Add the spinach and stir until wilted. Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on low. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
- Do not add the cream too early. Waiting until the end prevents curdling.
- For thicker soup, stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water during the final 15 minutes.
- Chop sun-dried tomatoes finely so they distribute evenly in every bite.
- Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully settle.
Flavor Variations
- Tuscan Style: Add mushrooms and a pinch of thyme for extra depth.
- Low Carb: Skip any starch additions and add extra spinach or zucchini.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in 0.5 cup mozzarella for ultra creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb Forward: Finish with fresh basil and oregano for a brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Garlic bread or cheesy toast
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for a complete meal
It also makes an excellent starter for Italian-inspired dinners.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without spinach and add it fresh when reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup Made Simple
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy slow cooker marry me chicken soup made simple delivers tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a velvety cream base in an easy set-it-and-forget-it comfort food dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.75 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on low.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
Add cream and cheese at the end to prevent curdling. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | ~780 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes. Simmer all ingredients except cream, cheese, and spinach for about 20 minutes, then add the remaining ingredients and cook until creamy.
Is this soup spicy?
It has mild warmth from red pepper flakes, which are optional. Leave them out for a completely mild version.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but cooking time may increase slightly. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before shredding.
Will the cream curdle?
Adding cream at the end and using low heat prevents curdling. Avoid boiling once dairy is added.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Absolutely. Cook pasta or rice separately and add just before serving to prevent mushy texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup Made Simple is proof that comfort food does not need to be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. Once you try it, it just might become a staple in your slow cooker rotation.