Marry Me Chicken Soup

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Course: Dinner | Serves: 4

Marry-me chicken soup is made with spices, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, some cream, and pasta shells. Perfect for these wintry days. Inspired by my daughter, Audrey, who sent me this video by Alexrioscooks on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaVA7eyr6z/?hl=en  

2 lbs chicken thighs, cut into strips 

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder 

1 teaspoon onion powder 

1 tsp paprika 

1 teaspoon oregano 

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 

1 pinch red pepper flakes or Aleppo flakes

Salt and pepper, to taste 

1 lemon, zested and juiced 

1 onion, diced 

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 oz sun-dried tomatoes, julienne cut

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 quart chicken broth 

1 cup shell pasta

1 cup heavy cream 

3 cups spinach 

3 green onions, sliced 

¼ cup parsley, chopped 

Basil leaves, chiffonade, for garnish 

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, + more for garnish 

In a large skillet, sautéed chicken in olive oil with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Turn after 2 to 3 minutes and cook the other side until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep warm.  Add the onion to the skillet with the garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and pasta shells, and cook for about nine minutes. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, chicken strips, green onions, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Taste and correct for seasoning, ladle into soup bowls, and garnish with basil and more freshly grated Parmesan cheese.