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

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a comforting bowl of soup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: This soup is great on its own or served with crusty bread, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that nourishes your body while satisfying your cravings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools for making your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for creating hearty soups; its size allows for even cooking of all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot; it helps mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise measurements to ensure balanced flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather these fresh ingredients for your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

Chicken and Seasoning

• 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

Vegetables

• 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)

Base Ingredients

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional; see notes)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups; see notes.)

Pasta and Cream

• 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: Cook 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. Cook until browned on all sides, approximately 4-5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Thicken the Base

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to prevent excess dryness. If using tomato paste, add it at this stage and stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Add Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to eliminate lumps. Deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon as you mix.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot with a lid; reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and tender while pasta reaches al dente texture. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and mix it in later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

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

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup one last time before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if needed.

Enjoy your delicious 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 all about enhancing its rich flavors and heartiness. Pair it with complementary items that elevate the meal experience for you and your guests.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad adds freshness to your meal. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This turns your meal into an interactive dining experience!

Topped with Cheese

• Add extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an even creamier texture and enhanced flavor profile.

Accompanied by Garlic Knots

• Garlic knots provide a flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the soup, making each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To achieve the best Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips for maximizing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried or canned alternatives.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices gradually to ensure the perfect balance without overpowering the dish.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: If adding pasta directly to the soup, ensure it’s cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy as it sits.

• Incorporate More Greens: For added nutrition, consider including other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard along with spinach.

• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer if time permits; this deepens flavors and melds them beautifully together.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your meal with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside your soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a crunchy texture.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad pairs well with the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal while being easy to prepare.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making it a wholesome side that balances out the meal.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors.
6. Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats make a delightful appetizer or side, complementing the creaminess of the soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide additional heartiness alongside your bowl of soup.
8. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can offer a nice contrast in temperature while still harmonizing with Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and veggies properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust salt and spices accordingly.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Sauté it just until browned; it will finish cooking in the broth.
• Neglecting to Deglaze: Failing to deglaze the pot can cause burnt bits to affect flavor. Always scrape up those tasty brown bits when adding broth.
• Adding Cream Too Early: Putting in the cream too early can cause it to curdle. Wait until after simmering before adding cream for a smooth texture.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin your soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken broth or homemade for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any small pasta shape that you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente if added separately.

How can I make this soup healthier?

You can use less cream or substitute with a plant-based option like cashew cream for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor.

What if I want a dairy-free version?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

How do I store leftovers?

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

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and proteins based on your preference. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals. Give it a try, and let it warm your heart!