Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! 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 rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of Italian seasoning, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich, savory flavor that will impress your family.
• Versatile Meal: This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be easily adapted with your favorite veggies or pasta types.
• Comfort Food: Creamy texture combined with tender chicken makes this dish irresistibly comforting on chilly days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and potlucks, this recipe serves a generous amount and will satisfy large groups.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution for cooking all ingredients thoroughly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all flavors meld seamlessly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients, which is key for achieving the perfect taste.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces)
– 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 pieces along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot:
Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic.
Cook until translucent, approximately 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour throughout the vegetable mixture:
Stir well to combine.
Add flour in stages to prevent excess drying.
If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth:
Stir repeatedly while ensuring there are no lumps.
Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Boil Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil:
Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cover with a lid; reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and pasta is al dente.
Alternatively, boil pasta separately if preferred.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot:
Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup:
* Adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt or spices before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate the dining experience. This soup is rich and creamy, making it a perfect companion to various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. Consider sourdough or ciabatta for added flavor.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Shaved Parmesan Cheese

• Add extra grated or shaved Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an added layer of richness and flavor.

Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the soup. Opt for a simple vinaigrette dressing to keep it fresh.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors in each spoonful.

Crackers or Breadsticks

• Pair with crunchy crackers or breadsticks for texture contrast. They are great for scooping up the soup too!

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup even better, consider these helpful tips that ensure a flavorful and satisfying dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the taste significantly compared to dried options.
• Customize Seasoning: Adjust Italian seasoning based on your taste preference. Experiment with adding red pepper flakes for some heat!
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid soggy pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving. This will maintain its texture.
• Stir Gently: When adding cream and cheese, stir gently to keep the mixture smooth without breaking up the chicken pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can provide a healthy complement to your soup’s rich flavors.
4. Cheesy Polenta: A creamy polenta dish can serve as a hearty base alongside the soup, enhancing its comfort factor.
5. Risotto: A light lemon or mushroom risotto pairs beautifully with Tuscan flavors, making it an elegant choice.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs offer a fun appetizer that complements the main dish well.
7. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, bruschetta adds freshness and brightness next to your creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few crucial steps. Here are some common mistakes to help you get it just right.

• Skipping seasoning: If you don’t season your chicken and vegetables well, the soup will lack flavor. Always add salt and pepper to taste at various cooking stages.
• Adding too much flour: Adding all the flour at once can create lumps. Sprinkle it gradually while stirring to ensure a smooth texture in your soup.
• Not deglazing the pot: Failing to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom can result in missed flavor. Make sure to deglaze with broth before simmering.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta directly in the soup for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and cook until al dente, or boil separately for better control.
• Ignoring cream temperature: Adding cold cream can lower the soup’s temperature. Warm it slightly before mixing it into the soup for a velvety finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce that promises comfort.

Can I customize Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can create your own blend using dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. This comforting dish warms hearts and stomachs alike. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the creaminess level. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!