Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful cream sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this is a rich and satisfying meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of creamy broth and savory chicken creates a dish that feels like a warm hug.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or pasta to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Feeds a Crowd: With 10 servings, this recipe is great for family gatherings or meal prep.
- Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with protein from chicken and fresh spinach, it’s both hearty and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
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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: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while allowing ample space for stirring.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot‘s surface.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.
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
- 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 see notes)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
For Creaminess
- 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
- 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 or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian Seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil before adding in the pasta along with an additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it later.
Step 6: Finish with Cream & Spinach
Open the pot again and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup one last time before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and spices if needed.
Enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup as a delightful dish that brings warmth to any occasion!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making each bowl a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining moments.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic bread: Adds a savory touch that complements the soup’s flavors.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar salad: Crunchy romaine and creamy dressing contrast nicely with the soup.
- Spinach salad: Light and fresh, it balances the richness of the chicken soup.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Basil leaves: A hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the Tuscan ingredients.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- Edible bowls: Hollowed-out sourdough loaves make for an impressive presentation.
- Mini rolls: Individual servings are perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Offer Extra Parmesan
- Grated cheese: Keep some extra grated Parmesan on hand for those who love a cheesy finish.
- Flavored cheeses: Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the soup’s flavor significantly.
- Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Control seasoning: Taste as you go to adjust salt and spices, ensuring balanced flavors throughout.
- Cook pasta al dente: This prevents overcooked pasta from becoming mushy in the soup.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, making it even more delicious.
- Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, but be mindful that pasta may absorb liquid over time.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Complementing your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a light contrast to the hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add texture and flavor diversity.
- Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh veggies offers a healthy and filling side option.
- Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa complement the flavors in your soup nicely.
- Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta adds comfort and richness that pairs beautifully with chicken soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Under-seasoning the chicken – Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet crisp texture by cooking them just until they are translucent.
- Not whisking properly – If you don’t whisk the broth well after adding flour, lumps can form in your soup. Gradually add broth while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth texture.
- Skipping the simmer time – Rushing through the simmering stage can result in undercooked pasta and chicken. Allow the soup to simmer fully for the best results.
- Neglecting freshness – Using wilted spinach or old ingredients can diminish flavor. Always use fresh produce for a delicious and vibrant soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute for even heating, until hot.
- Stovetop – Gently reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?
You can use fresh tomatoes or skip them entirely; just add additional Italian seasoning for flavor.
How can I make this soup lighter?
To lighten it up, reduce the amount of cream or substitute with half-and-half or milk.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include zucchini, bell peppers, or any favorite veggies you have on hand.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe is not spicy at all but feel free to add red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat!
Final Thoughts
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of warmth that’s sure to impress your loved ones!
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 1x
Description
Get ready to indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that will make every meal feel special. Ideal for cozy nights or busy weeknights, this soup serves as a nourishing and satisfying option for family gatherings or meal prep. With a blend of Italian-inspired ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 6 to 8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (small shells or your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 to 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2.5 to 3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned (4–5 minutes).
- Stir in onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic; cook until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the mix and stir well. If using tomato paste, add it now.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth; deglaze the pot.
- Bring to a boil, add pasta and another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer on low for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
