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. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a delightful weeknight dinner, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Hearty Ingredients: Packed with chicken, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a complete meal that fills you up without being heavy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—serve it at family dinners, potlucks, or as a comforting lunch.
• Flavorful Creaminess: The blend of spices and creamy texture makes each bowl incredibly satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make things smoother. Having the right equipment on hand will help you create the perfect soup effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while allowing you to easily deglaze the pot.
• Whisk: Essential for smoothly incorporating flour into the broth without lumps.

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

For Added Texture

• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For Garnish

• 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: Sauté 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until everything is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup Base

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to eliminate lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Finish Off with Cream

Once cooked, stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or spices as needed.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy your delicious Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light option, there are several fantastic serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair this soup with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the creamy soup, adding texture and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish.

Accompanied by a Garden Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad dressed with vinaigrette. The salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It makes for an impressive presentation and adds extra flavor.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on top. This enhances the cheesy goodness of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To make the best Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips that will take your dish to the next level.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed for optimal flavor balance.

• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving to avoid overcooking in the soup.

• Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth will provide a rich base that elevates your soup’s overall taste.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors; just keep an eye on the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the soup perfectly, offering flavorful bites for dipping.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that balances out the creaminess of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrition and their caramelized sweetness pairs beautifully with savory soup.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer, packed with flavors that harmonize with your main dish.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and texture, making it a healthy side option alongside your comforting soup.

6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese offer a delightful contrast to creamy soups and are great for sopping up every last drop!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables can lead to bland soup. Always season every layer as you cook.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it’s browned and cooked through.

• Neglecting the pasta cooking method: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Cook pasta al dente separately or follow the simmering time carefully.

• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need a bit more salt or pepper for that perfect flavor.

• Using low-quality broth: The base of your soup greatly affects the final flavor. Choose a good quality chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup that might help you out:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any small pasta like orzo or ditalini for variety.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting recipe—it’s sure to become a family favorite!