Can You Freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup? Best Tips for Storage & Reheating

Understanding “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

What Is “Marry Me” Chicken Soup?

“Marry Me” Chicken Soup is a spin on the beloved “Marry Me” Chicken dish, known for its creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. The name comes from the idea that the dish is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal. The soup version of Marry Me Chicken takes the same rich and comforting elements and turns them into a hearty, spoonable meal. If you’re wondering, “Can you freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup?”, the good news is that with the right storage techniques, you can preserve its incredible taste and texture.

This creamy chicken soup typically features tender chicken, a luscious creamy broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and fragrant herbs like thyme and basil. The balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors makes Marry Me Chicken Soup a standout dish, especially on chilly evenings or when you need a bowl of comfort. Whether you’re making a big batch for later or want to enjoy leftovers, knowing how to freeze Marry Me Chicken Soup properly ensures it stays just as delicious when reheated.

“Marry Me” Chicken Soup Ingredients and Flavor Profile

The beauty of “Marry Me” Chicken Soup lies in its layered flavors. The base starts with butter and garlic, which create a warm, aromatic foundation. Next, boneless chicken breast or thighs add protein and texture. The real depth of flavor comes from sun-dried tomatoes, which provide a slightly sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of the cream.

Key ingredients include:

Ingredient	Description
Chicken	Juicy, shredded, or cubed for a hearty texture
Chicken broth	Enhances the umami taste and keeps the soup light yet flavorful
Heavy cream	Brings a velvety richness that makes the soup indulgent
Parmesan cheese	Adds a salty, nutty depth
Sun-dried tomatoes	Provide a signature tangy, slightly sweet flavor
Garlic and onions	Form a fragrant base
Italian herbs (thyme, basil, oregano)	Round out the flavor profile with warmth and complexity

 

This creamy, herbaceous, and slightly tangy profile is what makes “Marry Me” Chicken Soup so irresistible.

Why Is “Marry Me” Chicken Soup So Popular?

The popularity of “Marry Me” Chicken Soup comes down to its comfort factor and bold flavors. It’s easy to make, yet it tastes like something from a gourmet restaurant. Plus, it’s versatile—you can enjoy it as a cozy dinner, serve it with crusty bread, or even use it as a sauce over pasta or rice.

Social media has also played a huge role in its rise. Recipes for “Marry Me” Chicken and its soup variation have taken over TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest, with food lovers raving about its restaurant-quality taste. And let’s not forget the romantic name—it adds a bit of fun and intrigue, making it a great meal for date nights or special occasions.

Importance of Proper Soup Storage

Why Freezing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup Matters

Cooking a large batch of “Marry Me” Chicken Soup can save time and effort, but storing it properly is key to preserving its deliciousness. Freezing is one of the best ways to extend the shelf life of homemade soup. It helps:

• Reduce food waste
• Preserve the soup’s quality for weeks or even months
• Provide a quick, ready-to-heat meal when needed

However, because this soup contains dairy and cheese, freezing it requires a bit of care to maintain its texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes When Storing Creamy Chicken Soups

How Freezing Affects the Taste and Texture of “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

One of the biggest mistakes when storing creamy soups is freezing them without considering how the ingredients will react. Dairy-based soups, like “Marry Me” Chicken Soup, tend to separate when frozen, leading to a grainy texture when reheated. Parmesan and cream can break down, causing an unpleasant consistency.

Other common storage mistakes include:

• Not cooling the soup before freezing – Trapping heat in an airtight container can cause condensation and ice crystals, leading to freezer burn.
• Using the wrong containers – Thin plastic bags or low-quality containers may not be airtight, allowing freezer odors to seep in.
• Skipping portioning – Freezing the entire batch together makes it hard to reheat only what you need.

To keep “Marry Me” Chicken Soup tasting fresh and creamy, it’s essential to follow proper freezing techniques—which we’ll cover in the next section.

Can You Freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup?

How Dairy Ingredients Affect Freezing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

When it comes to freezing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup, the biggest challenge is the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Dairy-based soups don’t always freeze well because milk fats tend to separate when exposed to freezing temperatures. This can lead to a grainy, curdled texture when reheated.

Additionally, cream-based soups often lose their smooth, velvety consistency after thawing. The fats and proteins break apart, making the soup appear watery instead of rich and creamy. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t freeze it—it just requires the right approach to preserve the flavor and texture.

One common trick is to leave out the dairy before freezing and add it later when reheating. If you’ve already made a batch with cream, you can still freeze it, but it will require proper reheating techniques to bring it back to its original consistency.

Impact on Chicken, Herbs, and Spices

Besides dairy, other ingredients in this soup react differently to freezing.

• Chicken: Fortunately, cooked chicken freezes well and maintains its texture if stored properly. However, if the soup is overcooked before freezing, the chicken may become dry or rubbery when reheated.
• Herbs & Spices: Some fresh herbs, like basil and parsley, lose their bright flavor after freezing. Dried herbs, on the other hand, hold up better. If you’re using fresh herbs, consider adding them after thawing.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These handle freezing well, but their acidity may slightly intensify over time, altering the overall taste.

Safe Freezing Guidelines for This Soup

To safely freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup, follow these guidelines:

1. Cool It Completely: Never freeze hot soup. Let it cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and ice crystals.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store the soup in BPA-free freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
3. Leave Some Space: Liquid expands when frozen, so leave at least 1 inch of space at the top of the container.
4. Label with the Date: This helps you keep track of how long the soup has been stored. Ideally, use it within 3 months for the best flavor.
5. Consider Freezing Without Cream: If possible, freeze the soup without the dairy and add it when reheating to maintain a fresh, creamy texture.

Best Practices for Freezing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing

If you’re planning to freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup, follow this method to maintain its quality:

1. Cook the Soup Without the Dairy – If possible, omit the heavy cream and parmesan before freezing. These can be added later when reheating for a fresher taste.
2. Let the Soup Cool Down – Pour the soup into a large bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes until it reaches room temperature.
3. Portion the Soup – Use small freezer-safe containers or quart-size freezer bags to divide the soup into individual servings. This makes reheating easier.
4. Leave Extra Space in the Container – Since liquid expands when frozen, leave about 1 inch at the top of each container to prevent spills.
5. Seal and Label – Make sure the lid is airtight, and label each container with the date.
6. Freeze Properly – Lay freezer bags flat on a baking sheet for even freezing. Once solid, you can stack them to save space.

Choosing the Right Containers for Freezing

Not all containers are ideal for freezing soups. The right choice can help prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.

Best options for freezing soup:

• Glass jars (with straight sides) – Great for preventing cracks due to expansion.
• Heavy-duty freezer bags – Save space by freezing the soup flat.
• Plastic freezer containers (BPA-free) – Durable and reusable.
• Silicone freezer trays – Perfect for freezing small portions for quick reheating.

Avoid:

• Thin plastic bags (prone to leaks and freezer burn)
• Glass containers with narrow necks (can crack from expansion)

Avoiding Freezer Burn and Separation

Freezer burn happens when moisture evaporates from food, causing dry spots and an unpleasant taste. Here’s how to prevent it when freezing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup:

• Use Airtight Containers: Exposure to air leads to freezer burn, so ensure the lid is tightly sealed.
• Remove Excess Air from Freezer Bags: Press out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Wrap Containers in Plastic Wrap: For extra protection, wrap the container in plastic wrap before sealing.
• Don’t Store Soup Too Long: Even when frozen, creamy soups are best consumed within 2-3 months for the best taste and texture.

By following these freezing tips, you can enjoy “Marry Me” Chicken Soup whenever you want without sacrificing its creamy goodness!

How to Properly Thaw Frozen “Marry Me” Chicken Soup

Best Methods for Defrosting

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen “Marry Me” Chicken Soup, thawing it the right way is just as important as freezing it properly. The method you choose affects the texture, especially since this soup contains cream and parmesan, which can separate or become grainy if not handled carefully.

Here are the best ways to thaw the soup while keeping it as smooth and flavorful as possible:

1. Refrigerator Thawing (Best Method):
   • Transfer the frozen soup from the freezer to the fridge at least 12 hours before reheating.
   • This slow thawing process helps prevent dairy separation and maintains the best texture.
   • Once thawed, use the soup within 24 hours for the best taste.
2. Cold Water Thawing (Faster Option):
   • Place the frozen soup (in a sealed freezer bag) in a large bowl of cold water.
   • Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold.
   • It should be thawed within 1-2 hours, depending on portion size.
3. Direct Stovetop Thawing (If You’re in a Hurry):
   • Pour the frozen soup into a pot on low heat and stir frequently.
   • Avoid high heat, as it can cause the dairy to curdle.
   • Stirring constantly helps reincorporate any separated cream.

🔥 Avoid: Thawing the soup at room temperature, as this can encourage bacteria growth and lead to spoilage.

How to Prevent Curdling When Reheating

One of the biggest concerns when reheating frozen creamy soups is curdling. Dairy and cheese can separate when exposed to sudden heat, creating a grainy or unpleasant consistency. To prevent this:

• Reheat Slowly: Use low to medium heat and stir continuously to help reincorporate the ingredients.
• Add Fresh Dairy (If Needed): If the texture isn’t smooth after thawing, stir in a splash of fresh cream or milk while reheating.
• Use a Whisk: Whisking the soup gently while reheating can help restore a smooth consistency.
• Don’t Boil the Soup: High heat breaks down the dairy fats, leading to separation. Keep it at a gentle simmer instead.

Reheating on Stovetop vs. Microwave

You can reheat “Marry Me” Chicken Soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, but each method has its pros and cons.

Method	Pros	Cons
Stovetop (Recommended)	Best for even heating prevents curdling, easy to stir and adjust consistency	Takes longer than a microwave
Microwave	Quick and convenient	Higher risk of curdling if not stirred frequently

✅ Best Practice: If using the microwave, reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval to maintain a creamy texture.

Alternative Storage Options

Refrigeration vs. Freezing: Storing “Marry Me” Chicken Soup the Right Way

If you plan to eat “Marry Me” Chicken Soup within a few days, refrigeration may be the best option. However, freezing is better for long-term storage.

Storage Method	How Long Does It Last?	Best For
Refrigeration (in an airtight container)	3-4 days	Short-term storage, maintaining the best texture
Freezing (in an airtight container or bag)	Up to 3 months	Long-term storage, meal prep

👉 Pro Tip: If you want to make the soup ahead of time, consider refrigerating the base (without dairy) and adding cream just before serving.

How Long Can It Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

If stored properly in an airtight container, “Marry Me” Chicken Soup stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. However, avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as dairy-based soups can spoil quickly.

To check if the soup is still good:

• Smell Test: Sour or off-putting odors mean it’s time to toss it.
• Texture Check: If it’s overly thick or has a slimy consistency, it’s likely spoiled.
• Mold or Color Change: Any unusual colors or mold growth mean it should be discarded.

Vacuum Sealing for Longer Storage

For an even longer shelf life, vacuum sealing is an excellent option. This removes excess air and prevents freezer burn, keeping the soup fresh for up to 4-6 months.

How to Vacuum Seal Soup Properly:

1. Freeze the Soup First: Pour the soup into a shallow pan or freezer bag and freeze it flat until solid.
2. Vacuum Seal the Frozen Soup: Once solid, transfer it to a vacuum-seal bag and remove the air.
3. Label & Store: Mark the bag with the date, then store it in the freezer.

📌 Bonus Tip: If you don’t have a vacuum sealer, you can use the water displacement method—place soup in a freezer bag, submerge it in water (without letting water in), and seal when most of the air is out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup With Cream in It?

Yes, you can freeze “Marry Me” Chicken Soup even if it contains cream. However, dairy tends to separate when frozen, which can lead to a slightly grainy texture. To prevent this, consider freezing the soup before adding the cream and stirring it in after reheating. If you’ve already included dairy, reheat the soup slowly over low heat while whisking to help bring back its creamy consistency.

2. How Long Does This Soup Last in the Freezer?

Properly stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, “Marry Me” Chicken Soup stays fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within this time frame. Using vacuum-sealed bags can extend its quality for up to 4-6 months, as it prevents freezer burn and preserves freshness.

3. Will Freezing Change the Soup’s Flavor?

Freezing can slightly alter the flavor, especially due to ingredient separation. Dairy components, like heavy cream and parmesan cheese, may break down, resulting in a thinner consistency. Additionally, herbs may lose some potency, and sun-dried tomatoes might taste slightly more intense. To refresh the flavor after thawing, try adding a splash of cream, extra cheese, or fresh herbs before serving.

4. Can I Add Fresh Cream After Thawing?

Absolutely! Adding fresh cream after thawing is one of the best ways to restore the soup’s rich and velvety texture. When reheating, stir in the cream over low heat to prevent curdling. This method ensures that the soup remains smooth and creamy, just like when it was first made.

5. What’s the Best Way to Preserve Its Original Taste?

To keep “Marry Me” Chicken Soup tasting as fresh as possible after freezing, follow these steps:

• Freeze it without dairy and add the cream after thawing.
• Use airtight, freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheat slowly over low heat while stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture.
• Refresh the flavor with fresh herbs, parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon after reheating.

6. Can I Refrigerate Instead of Freezing?

Yes! If you plan to eat the soup within 3-4 days, storing it in the refrigerator is a great option. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. However, for longer storage, freezing is the better choice.

7. Can I Use a Microwave to Reheat the Soup?

Yes, but be cautious. When using a microwave, reheat the soup in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round to prevent curdling. A stovetop is a better option because it allows for gentle reheating, helping to maintain the soup’s creamy consistency without dairy separation.