Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you up in warmth and comfort, this is it. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce that makes every spoonful feel like a hug. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or feeding the family on a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to impress. Trust me; it’s so good, it may just lead to some sweet proposals at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its creamy texture and yummy flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an easy meal that tastes just as good the next day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasonings and fresh ingredients creates a comforting flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is one of the joys of cooking! For this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll find everything you need right here. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special:

For the Soup

• 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 cloves garlic (Minced)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional)
• 6-8 cups chicken broth (Start with 6 cups)
• 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 parts about cooking is making a recipe your own! This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can be easily customized based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even canned beans for a vegetarian option!
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Add some spice: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some red pepper flakes for added heat.
• Try different pastas: Use any small pasta shape you love—just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

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 diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Browning the chicken not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients until they become translucent—about 3-4 minutes. This step is important as it develops sweetness from the onions and garlic while softening your veggies.

Step 3: Stir in Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle flour evenly across your sautéed mixture and stir well. If you’re using tomato paste for added depth of flavor, mix it in now. Adding flour helps thicken your soup while creating a base for that creamy texture we all love!

Step 4: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken broth while stirring consistently to avoid lumps. Make sure to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot with your spoon—it adds delicious flavor! Bring this mixture to a rolling boil before moving on.

Step 5: Cook Pasta with Soup

Once boiling, add in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning plus salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until both chicken and pasta are cooked perfectly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Open up that pot and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated parmesan cheese. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. This is where all those beautiful flavors meld into something magical!

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, be sure to taste your soup one last time! Adjust salt or spices if needed—you want every bowl to be just right.

And there you have it! A deliciously creamy bowl of Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup that’s sure to warm hearts at any gathering. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

This soup is already a winner, but these pro tips will help you elevate your cooking game and ensure every bowl is irresistible!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for vibrant, seasonal produce to enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add more flour or reduce the amount of chicken broth. Conversely, if you like it a bit thinner, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Customize Your Pasta: While small shells are delightful, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape. Just remember that different shapes may alter cooking times slightly, so keep an eye on them!
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give your soup an extra kick. Just be cautious; start with a small amount and adjust to taste!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving this delicious soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this heartwarming dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the aromatic experience of the soup.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread on top of each bowl for that rustic touch and perfect for dipping.
• Additional Parmesan: A light dusting of grated Parmesan on top just before serving gives it that extra creamy flavor that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this hearty soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots complement the flavors beautifully while adding color to your meal.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with gooey cheese are an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with any bowl of creamy goodness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to be a hit! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with loved ones—it’s bound to create lasting memories at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your lunch and dinner planning a breeze.

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 you plan to store it longer, consider freezing it instead.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwaving, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup:

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How can I make my Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour during cooking or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and mix it back in.

Can I use different kinds of pasta in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings joy and comfort. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!