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: This soup packs a punch with its creamy texture and rich Tuscan flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: It can be served as a main course or paired with bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice for all.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or when entertaining guests; everyone will want seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat, making prep work quicker.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking throughout.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid clumping. If using tomato paste, add it now.

Step 5: Add Broth & Pasta

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil. Then add the pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and reduce heat to low; let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

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

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or spices.

Enjoy this delightful Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup as a comforting meal any time!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is an opportunity to enhance its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this soup that will impress your family and friends.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve this soup with a slice of crusty baguette or ciabatta for dipping. The bread absorbs the creamy broth beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the dish.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pairing the soup with a light green salad can balance the richness. A simple vinaigrette works well to cut through the creaminess.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in edible bread bowls. It’s not only delicious but also makes for an attractive presentation.

Sprinkled with Extra Cheese

• Add more grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It enhances the flavor and gives an appealing look to the dish.

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How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your soup significantly.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go when adding salt and spices, ensuring you don’t overpower the dish.

• Opt for high-quality chicken broth: A good broth enhances the overall taste; homemade or low-sodium versions are great choices.

• Cook pasta separately if desired: If you prefer al dente pasta, cooking it separately allows for better control over its texture.

• Let it simmer longer: For deeper flavors, let your soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes after adding all ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy soup, offering crunch and flavor.

2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing make a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a healthy touch while enhancing the meal’s heartiness.

4. Cheesy Rice Casserole: This comforting side adds extra creaminess and pairs nicely with any chicken dish.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites provide a delightful appetizer that complements the main course well.

6. Bruschetta: Topping toasted bread with tomatoes and basil offers a fresh burst of flavor before enjoying the soup.

7. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad provides a nutritious side that balances out the meal beautifully.

8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges bring another layer of texture and heartiness alongside your creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Using cold chicken – Starting with cold chicken can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for best results.
• Skipping the deglazing step – Not deglazing the pot can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook it until just al dente, or add it towards the end if you prefer more control.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to an unbalanced soup. Always taste and tweak with salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.
• Forgetting to use fresh ingredients – Dried herbs and old vegetables may lack flavor. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for a vibrant, delicious soup.
• Rushing the simmering process – A short simmer won’t allow flavors to meld. Be patient and let your soup simmer to develop its rich taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• This creamy soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

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

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work wonderfully! They add extra flavor and tenderness.

How do I customize my Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but it may alter the creaminess slightly.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup will last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch for thickening.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Give this recipe a try! It’s perfect for cozy dinners and sure to impress everyone at your table.