Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce, making it perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners. Its rich flavors promise warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful, ensuring it will become a go-to favorite at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this soup can be ready in under an hour.
• Heartwarming Flavor: The blend of Italian seasoning and creamy ingredients creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course for dinner or a hearty lunch option; it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with chicken and fresh vegetables, this soup is not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its delightful flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 making soups as they distribute heat evenly, ensuring all ingredients cook perfectly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware. They help combine ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

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)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (Divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the 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)

For Thickening

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional)

For Broth and Pasta

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (Start with 6 cups)
• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells)

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 – 1 cup grated Parmesan 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 diced chicken 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 the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Thicken the Soup Base

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture:
* Stir well to combine, adding flour gradually to avoid excessive drying.
* If using tomato paste, add it here and stir.

Step 4: Add Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth:
* Stir continuously to ensure there are no lumps.
* Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil:
* Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
* Cover with a lid; lower heat to allow simmering for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately then combine later.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

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

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Before serving:
* Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it more delightful and comforting. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch and complements the soup’s richness.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a crisp contrast to the creamy soup, balancing flavors perfectly.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that enhances the meal.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of fresh flavor and appealing presentation.
• Extra Cheese: Add more grated Parmesan on top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Serve in Unique Bowls

• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic presentation.
• Mason Jars: Individual servings in mason jars make for charming display options at gatherings.

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 enhance the flavor profile significantly. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add extra chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Control Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and spices gradually to suit your preference without overpowering the dish.
• Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): Cooking pasta separately helps avoid overcooking. You can then add it just before serving for al dente texture.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Store Properly: If preparing in advance, store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness without losing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup with the right side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a rich side that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition while enhancing taste profiles.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
4. Herb Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia with herbs is perfect for sopping up every last drop of creamy goodness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables make for an eye-catching and tasty accompaniment.
6. Spinach & Strawberry Salad: This vibrant salad combines sweet strawberries and nutty pecans, adding freshness alongside your warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust as needed.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim for just cooked through to maintain tenderness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your soup adequately can lead to blandness. Taste frequently and adjust seasoning as you go.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing can leave burnt bits at the bottom. Use your spoon to scrape up those flavorful bits before adding broth.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can affect taste and texture. Always opt for fresh produce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a unique flavor profile.

How do I make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to elevate the spice level.

What if I don’t have sundried tomatoes?

You can substitute with fresh tomatoes or skip them entirely; just adjust other ingredients as needed.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any small pasta shape that you prefer or have on hand.

How can I customize this soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers or swap out spinach for kale based on personal preference.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate – give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors and heartwarming essence!