Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce that promises to warm your heart. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and sundried tomatoes creates a rich flavor profile that’s irresistible.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of prep, you can have this comforting soup ready in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup works well as a main dish or paired with crusty bread for dipping.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With ten servings, it’s ideal for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup offers both comfort and nourishment.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pots and ensuring everything cooks thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 – 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced into 1-inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds)
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Vegetables

• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For Thickening and Flavor

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional; see notes)

For Broth and Pasta

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (start with 6 cups; see notes)
• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 – 1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese

For Freshness

• 2 1/2 – 3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, approximately 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid clumping. If using tomato paste, add it now.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. Make sure there are no lumps by deglazing the bottom of the pot with your spoon.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can cook pasta separately then add it at the end.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Remove lid and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow soup to simmer for an additional five minutes.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with extra salt and spices if needed before serving hot.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty French Baguette: Slice and serve warm for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory touch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil brightens the soup’s flavor.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine complements the creamy soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can take it from good to exceptional. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality vegetables and meats will enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of salt and spices.
• Cook on Low Heat: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Incorporate Optional Ingredients: Try adding different vegetables or herbs for unique variations.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the soup fresh for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can round out your meal wonderfully. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts drizzled with garlic and parmesan, roasted until golden.
2. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette.
3. Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread: Soft bread filled with gooey cheese and garlic butter, perfect for soaking up soup.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted until caramelized.
6. Pesto Pasta Salad: Pasta salad dressed in homemade pesto adds a flavorful twist to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, avoiding common mistakes can elevate the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always season at each stage of cooking for maximum flavor.
• Not browning the chicken properly – Browning adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Ensure the chicken is cooked until golden before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta – If you add pasta too early or cook it too long, it can become mushy. Aim for al dente if cooking in the soup; alternatively, cook separately.
• Neglecting to deglaze – Skipping this step can leave you with a less flavorful broth. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you add broth.
• Adding cream too soon – Adding cream too early can cause it to curdle. Wait until the soup has simmered and thickened before incorporating cream.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container to allow for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup special?

This soup combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a rich, creamy base that creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variety.

How can I make this soup healthier?

To make it lighter, consider using low-fat cream or substituting some of the heavy cream with extra broth or plant-based milk.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adjusting ingredients according to taste!