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

• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture combined with savory ingredients creates a delightful taste that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this soup is quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for family gatherings or casual meals, this soup fits any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Make Ahead Option: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and ample space to combine all ingredients without spillage.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Whisk: Essential for smoothly mixing the broth with flour to avoid lumps 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
• 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)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)

For Creaminess and Garnish

• 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 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook these until they are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Optional Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. It’s best to add the flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If desired, add tomato paste at this point and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Mix in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Simmer

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil before adding in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low, letting it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil the pasta separately then add it later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Open up the pot again and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, as well as grated Parmesan cheese. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup once more. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or spices as needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your deliciously hearty bowl of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is an enjoyable experience that allows you to get creative with accompaniments. This soup is rich and creamy, making it perfect for pairing with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the soup’s richness beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley Garnish – Fresh parsley adds a nice touch and brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad – The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast nicely with the creamy soup.
• Mixed Green Salad – Light greens with vinaigrette help balance the richness of the soup.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings – Add some extra grated Parmesan for an indulgent touch.
• Feta Crumbles – The salty flavor of feta enhances the overall taste of the soup.

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How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about attention to detail and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually – Always taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – If cooking pasta separately, ensure it’s al dente to avoid sogginess when added to the soup.
• Let it Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
• Add Spinach Last – Adding fresh spinach at the end keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

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 delightful options that complement this hearty dish well.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a savory side that’s both healthy and delicious.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with creamy soups.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a filling meal alongside the soup.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – These fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every drop of your delicious soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory notes of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing can leave lumps in your soup. Always scrape the bottom of the pot after adding broth to incorporate all those delicious browned bits.
• Adding Too Much Pasta: Overloading on pasta can make your soup too thick. Start with a smaller amount, and adjust based on your preference for consistency.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to sample before serving; small tweaks can elevate the flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of ingredients matters. For a rich flavor, use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
• It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works well and saves time. Just add it towards the end of cooking to warm through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as a lighter alternative. It will change the flavor slightly but still keeps it creamy.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with any vegetables you like, such as zucchini or bell peppers, based on your preferences.

How spicy is this soup?

The soup is not spicy but you can add crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that warms both body and soul. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for even more deliciousness. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!