Name: Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk; 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

This Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup is one of those recipes that completely surprised me—in the best way. I wanted to capture the magic of the iconic "Marry Me Chicken" and turn it into a comforting, cozy soup that’s free of dairy but still wildly rich and flavorful. I’m talking tender seared chicken thighs simmered in a velvety coconut-based broth with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a kiss of spice. The result? A dish that’s hearty enough for dinner but feels luxurious enough for a date night.

I’ve made this soup for friends and family, and every time it gets the same reaction: silence, followed by a big smile and a request for seconds. Whether you're dairy-free or just looking for a new twist on comfort food, this one will absolutely earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup

It’s creamy without any cream, thanks to full-fat coconut milk which brings body and richness without the lactose. The sun-dried tomatoes infuse the broth with depth and tang, while the garlic and herbs layer in irresistible flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but feels like something you’d get at a restaurant. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt to Whole30 or paleo lifestyles.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this recipe. They’re juicy, flavorful, and stay tender in the broth. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be sure not to overcook them or they might dry out. You could even use rotisserie chicken in a pinch—just add it toward the end to warm through.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, cashew cream is another great dairy-free option that mimics that rich texture. Want it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for white beans or chickpeas and use veggie broth. Don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? A spoonful of tomato paste or roasted red peppers can offer a similar flavor profile. And for a spicier version, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.

Ingredients for This Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup

Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – These are the star of the show. They offer more flavor and tenderness than chicken breasts and hold up beautifully during simmering.

Coconut milk (full-fat) – This is the secret to the creamy base without using dairy. It brings richness, silkiness, and subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.

Sun-dried tomatoes (julienned) – These give a concentrated tangy-sweet tomato flavor that deepens the soup’s character.

Garlic (minced) – Adds that essential aromatic kick and pairs so well with the creamy broth.

Onion (finely chopped) – A foundational flavor builder, the sautéed onions create a savory base.

Chicken broth (low sodium) – The liquid base that ties everything together, enhancing both the chicken and the soup.

Olive oil – Used to sear the chicken and sauté aromatics, this healthy fat brings a touch of fruitiness.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the soup its familiar, comforting aroma.

Fresh basil (chopped) – Stirred in at the end for a pop of freshness and a bit of sweetness.

Spinach (roughly chopped) – Adds nutrients and vibrant green color while balancing the richness.

Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer of the soup.

Red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like a little kick.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavor. Deglaze the pot with a splash of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the rest of the chicken broth and coconut milk. Stir to combine. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Shred and Finish

Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the soup. Stir in the chopped spinach and fresh basil. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with more basil if desired, and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

How Long to Prepare the Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup

Prep Time: Prepping the ingredients will take about 15-20 minutes. This includes chopping the onions, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and basil, as well as seasoning the chicken. Having everything ready before cooking helps things go much smoother.

Cooking Time: Once everything is prepped, the actual cooking time is about 30-35 minutes. This includes searing the chicken, building the soup base, simmering, and finishing with the greens and basil. Altogether, you can expect this soup to come together in under an hour.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup

Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest texture.
Sear the chicken well to lock in flavor before simmering.
Deglaze the pot after sautéing aromatics to capture all the browned bits for extra flavor.
Add spinach and basil last to preserve their color and freshness.
Let the soup sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to deepen.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the chicken can dry it out, even in soup. Keep an eye on simmering time.
Using light coconut milk will lead to a thinner soup with less richness.
Not seasoning in layers can result in a bland broth. Salt and taste as you go.
Skipping the sear means you’ll miss out on a huge flavor boost.
Adding basil too early can cause it to wilt too much and lose its fresh edge.

What to Serve With Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup?

1. Crusty Bread

A warm slice of sourdough or a rustic baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

2. Garlic Roasted Potatoes

These crispy, herby potatoes complement the creaminess of the soup beautifully.

3. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A peppery, zesty salad adds a refreshing contrast to the soup.

4. Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb pairing, cauliflower rice is a light but satisfying option.

5. Grilled Asparagus

A quick char on asparagus adds smokiness and brightness to the meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. As the soup sits, the flavors meld and deepen—some say it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Reheating: Warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: ~420
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Marry Me Chicken" mean?

It’s a playful term suggesting the dish is so delicious, it could inspire a marriage proposal. This soup captures that same magic in a cozy bowl.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors continue to develop.

Is this soup spicy?

It’s mildly spiced. You can control the heat by adjusting or omitting the red pepper flakes.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thawed and well-drained frozen spinach works fine. Just stir it in at the end as you would fresh.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Still hearty and delicious!

Conclusion

Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich without being heavy, comforting yet full of bright, fresh flavors. Whether you're cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a crowd, this recipe delivers bold flavor and dairy-free decadence every single time. It's a nourishing dish that's sure to spark compliments—and maybe even a few proposals.

Creamy Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken Soup