Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a love letter to comfort food. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, this soup has a way of making any day feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

What makes this soup even more special is how easy it is to whip up. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty yet effortless. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and tender ingredients, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy reheat on busy days.
• Versatile Ingredients: It’s packed with wholesome veggies and chicken, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
• Deliciously Creamy: Every spoonful is bursting with flavor thanks to that heavenly cream sauce!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. Gather these goodies from your kitchen or local grocery store, and you’re on your way to creating a bowl of happiness!

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even diced tofu for a vegetarian twist that still packs plenty of flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the pasta: Try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if you’re looking for alternatives.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat that’ll take this soup to the next level.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

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, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides—this should take about 4-5 minutes. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor that makes every bite irresistible!

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Next, add in the diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until they turn translucent—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Sautéing these veggies not only softens them but also helps release their natural sweetness into the soup.

Step 3: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well. Adding flour helps thicken our soup beautifully! Just remember to do this in stages so everything stays nice and smooth. If you’re adding tomato paste, now’s your chance—mix it in well.

Step 4: Create Your Broth Base

Gradually whisk in your chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This step is crucial as it helps deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot—those bits are packed with flavor! Bring this mixture up to a rolling boil.

Step 5: Add Pasta & Simmer

Once boiling, toss in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning and some salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can cook pasta separately if preferred.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot again and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let everything simmer together for an additional five minutes—this allows those lovely flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup one last time before serving! Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed. Then serve warm with some crusty bread or simply enjoy as is!

And there you have it—the delightful Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! Your dinner table will thank you for this heartwarming recipe that will surely bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creating a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can elevate the flavors in your soup. Ingredients like fresh spinach or high-quality chicken broth make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding more flour or letting it simmer longer to reduce. Conversely, if it’s too thick, simply add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning towards the end ensures a well-balanced flavor profile. A touch of extra Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flake can add an exciting kick.
• Make It Ahead: Soups often taste even better the next day as flavors meld together. Feel free to make this soup in advance; just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it.
• Customize Your Pasta: While small shells are fantastic, feel free to use any pasta shape you love! Gluten-free varieties work great if needed and can make this dish accessible for everyone.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving this creamy delight is an opportunity to impress family and friends! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some ideas to present this soup beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
• Crusty Bread Crumbs: Toasted bread crumbs sprinkled on top can provide a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that’s perfect for dipping into the rich soup. The buttery garlic flavor enhances the overall meal experience.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with homemade dressing adds a refreshing balance to the hearty soup. It’s a great way to include some greens!
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer sweetness and depth, making them an excellent accompaniment that rounds out your meal nicely.

With these serving suggestions, your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup will not only be delicious but also visually appealing—a true feast for both the eyes and taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! It’s a versatile dish that can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors all week long.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, keep the pasta separate from the soup to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and leave some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Can I use a different type of pasta in Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any small pasta you prefer such as macaroni, ditalini, or even gluten-free options. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup healthier?

To make this soup lighter, consider using low-fat cream or swapping out half of it with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrients!

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes, using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time! Just shred or dice it and add it when you stir in the cream and spinach.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Additionally, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute for that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and love. Its rich flavors and comforting ingredients are designed to create moments around your dinner table that you’ll cherish. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!