Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and comforts the soul, you’ve found it. This creamy soup is filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich sauce that promises to make any mealtime special. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding the family on a busy weeknight, this soup is a go-to favorite that everyone will adore.

What makes this recipe extra special? It’s all about the flavors coming together beautifully while being easy to prepare. You can whip it up on a chilly evening or serve it at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of creamy sauce and savory chicken creates a dish that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy to make: With simple steps, you can have this hearty soup ready in no time—even on those hectic nights!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the deliciousness in every bowl.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in creating the delightful flavors of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

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

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

For Broth and Pasta

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups)
• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for extra nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Any small pasta shape works great—try penne or ditalini!
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes for a kick if you enjoy heat!

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sear 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. Searing the chicken until browned on all sides takes about 4-5 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives your soup that hearty base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add your diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook these until they become translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Sautéing these veggies brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle flour throughout the vegetable mixture and stir well to combine. Adding flour helps thicken your soup without making it lumpy. If you’re using tomato paste, stir that in now too for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps—this is key! Once smooth, bring everything to a rolling boil before adding your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until everything is cooked through.

Step 5: Stir in Creamy Goodness

After simmering, open up that delicious pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer again for about 5 minutes so everything melds together beautifully.

Step 6: Season to Perfection

Finally, taste your creation! Adjust any seasoning as needed with salt or spices—you want every bite to be just right.

And there you have it! A bowlful of love awaits you with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your soup is as delicious as possible, here are some helpful tips to make the cooking process even smoother!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors in your soup and contribute to a vibrant, comforting taste that dried or old ingredients simply can’t match.
• Brown the chicken well: Taking the time to brown the chicken pieces adds depth of flavor to your soup. This caramelization creates a rich base that makes every bite more satisfying.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour when mixing in the broth. Alternatively, if you want it thinner, simply increase the amount of broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Customizing the spice level personalizes the dish and can cater to different tastes.
• Let it sit: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets all those wonderful flavors meld together. The waiting can be tough, but it’s worth it for that extra burst of flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving this delightful soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary options that enhance its flavors. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil not only adds color but also brings a fragrant aroma that elevates each spoonful.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top adds an extra layer of warmth without overpowering the creamy goodness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. Its buttery flavor complements the richness beautifully.
• Mixed green salad: A crisp salad with light vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring another layer of texture and flavor to your meal while contributing to a wholesome dining experience.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: A side of quinoa or rice pilaf provides heartiness without competing with the main dish, making for a well-rounded plate.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! Its hearty ingredients not only make it a filling dish but also ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful for days. Prepare it in advance, and enjoy the convenience of quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• If frozen, thaw first for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you with your cooking journey!

Can I make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup without pasta?

Yes! You can omit the pasta or replace it with a gluten-free alternative. The soup will still be delicious without it!

What makes Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup so special?

This recipe combines tender chicken and fresh vegetables with a creamy sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s sure to impress your loved ones!

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions.

How long does Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. Each bowl is filled with love and flavor, making it truly special. So gather your ingredients and get cooking—I can’t wait for you to experience how delightful this soup is!