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 warms your soul. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner, this soup promises to deliver delightful flavors and satisfying warmth in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously rich soup that is hard to resist.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes enough for 10 servings, making it ideal for batch cooking or feeding a crowd.
• Kid-Friendly Comfort Food: The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items for preparing your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and can hold all the ingredients comfortably.
• Chef’s knife: Sharp knives make chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent flavor in your soups.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help stir without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

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

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 & Flavor

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (Start with 6 cups.)

Pasta & Creaminess

• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese

Fresh Greens

• 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook until browned on all sides for about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until the mixture is translucent, around 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture while stirring well to combine. Add the flour gradually to prevent clumping. If using tomato paste, incorporate it at this stage.

Step 4: Add Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Make sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover with a lid; reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately if preferred.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices as necessary.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance its flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Consider these suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. Choose a baguette or sourdough for an added texture contrast.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley to add color and a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread makes a delicious side, offering a savory crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture of the soup.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Provide grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on top according to their taste preference, enhancing the soup’s richness.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors of the soup, making it even more refreshing and vibrant.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup involves attention to detail and careful preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried or canned options.
• Control Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on your desired thickness. Start with less and add gradually for best results.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup and allows you to control its doneness better.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure optimal flavor.
• Allow Flavors to Meld: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Greens: Besides spinach, try adding kale or Swiss chard for different textures and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving one or more of these side dishes alongside your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing, complementing the soup’s richness.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add sweetness and depth. Try carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers protein and lightness alongside your hearty soup.

4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits packed with cheese provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor when dipped into the creamy soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices serve as a nutritious side that pairs well with chicken soup.

6. Herbed Rice Pilaf
   Flavored rice pilaf infused with herbs adds subtle flavors that enhance your overall meal experience without overpowering the soup.

7. Bruschetta
   This Italian appetizer features toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic—a perfect starter before indulging in your main dish.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip
   This creamy dip served warm with tortilla chips is an indulgent appetizer that sets a cozy tone for your meal featuring this comforting soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Neglecting to season properly: Seasoning is key! Always taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the chicken adds depth. Ensure the chicken is browned on all sides before adding vegetables for richer flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta too early, it may become mushy. Cook it al dente and consider adding it towards the end of cooking for better texture.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can impact taste. Always choose fresh produce for a vibrant soup.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld: Give the soup time to simmer. Letting it sit enhances flavor; allow at least 5 additional minutes after adding cream and spinach.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile while keeping the essence of this creamy soup.

How do I make my Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup spicier?

For added spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference!

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

What is a good side dish with this soup?

A crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, complementing its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or lunch with family. Its rich flavors are sure to impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!