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 sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and cream creates a rich taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Quick Preparation: In just 50 minutes, you can prepare a filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand to make this soup your own—it’s easy to customize!
- Crowd-Pleaser: With ten servings per batch, it’s ideal for family gatherings or meal prep.
- Comforting Warmth: This soup is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother 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: Ideal for even cooking of all ingredients while allowing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching non-stick surfaces and ensuring an even mix.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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)
– 1/4 cup flour
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
– 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
– 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: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with 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: Add Flour
Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. You can also cook pasta separately if preferred.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach
Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes.
Step 7: Taste Test
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for sharing with loved ones!
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will make your soup even more enjoyable.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory crunch that complements the soup perfectly.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with vinaigrette brighten up the meal and add freshness.
Garnish for Extra Flavor
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish.
- Extra Parmesan: Grate additional Parmesan cheese over the soup before serving for added richness.
Enjoy with Wine
- White Wine: A chilled white wine, like Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy elements of the soup.
- Red Wine: For those who prefer red, a light Pinot Noir can be an excellent match as well.
How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
To achieve the perfect bowl of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these handy tips. They will help you elevate your dish to restaurant-quality perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh vegetables and herbs enhances flavor and texture in your soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
- Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy in the soup.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning gradually to maintain balance without overpowering flavors.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish well.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: This salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing taste that balances richness.
- Risotto: A creamy risotto can be a luxurious addition that matches the velvety texture of the soup.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with soups.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a delightful bite alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
- Using cold chicken: Always use chicken at room temperature for even cooking. This helps the chicken brown better and enhances the flavor.
- Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze the pot can lead to a soupy base lacking depth. Scrape up any browned bits after adding the broth for a richer taste.
- Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook vegetables too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture by keeping an eye on cooking times.
- Not seasoning properly: Underseasoning results in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Using heavy cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon can create an undesirable texture. Wait until the end of cooking to stir it in for a creamy finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
- It can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.
What makes this soup Marry Me?
This soup is called Marry Me because its rich flavors are said to be irresistible and perfect for romantic dinners that could win someone’s heart!
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes! You can use boneless thighs or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make this soup healthier?
To make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup healthier, consider using low-fat cream or substituting half of the pasta with extra vegetables.
What can I serve with this soup?
This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner!
Final Thoughts
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 people 1x
Description
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that blends tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth infused with Italian flavors. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1–1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onions
- ¼ cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup flour
- 6–8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (small shells recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ – 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2½ – 3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned (4–5 minutes).
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic in the same pot until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Sprinkle in flour and mix well. If using tomato paste, add here.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and seasonings, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Stir in cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for an additional five minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
