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 sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful soup ready for your family or guests.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh spinach, sundried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: This soup is great as a filling lunch or a comforting dinner, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It serves up to 10 people, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some of the key items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and plenty of space to stir all ingredients without spilling.
• Sharp knife: A good knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help you stir without scratching your cookware, ensuring longevity.

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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

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 & Flavor

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

For Final Touches

• 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. 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 onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste

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

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid 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 in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. 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 with Cream and Spinach

Open the pot and 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 one last time before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if needed.

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to be a hit! Enjoy every heartwarming spoonful!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Consider these serving suggestions to make it even more delightful.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and added flavor that complements the creamy texture.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors, giving the soup a refreshing lift.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a crisp texture that enhances your meal.

Incorporate Cheese Crisps

• Parmesan crisps can be an elegant and crunchy addition, providing a salty contrast to the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly elevate the flavor profile of your soup. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.

• Control Heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures that your chicken cooks evenly without becoming dry while allowing the vegetables to soften perfectly.

• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup during cooking to adjust seasoning levels, ensuring a balanced flavor in every spoonful.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Complementing your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine and tangy dressing that pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory contrast and are easy to prepare alongside the soup.

4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with fresh veggies offers a nutritious side that balances out the meal’s richness.

5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant appetizer or side dish.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices complement the comforting nature of the soup while adding variety.

7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory soups like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta directly in the soup can lead to mushiness. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely or cook it separately and add it at the end.
• Skipping deglazing: Not deglazing the pot can leave a burnt flavor in your soup. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding broth.
• Using low-quality broth: A great soup starts with flavorful broth. Use high-quality chicken broth for better taste and depth in your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow enough time for everything to meld together beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and will provide a similar flavor profile.

What kind of pasta is best for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Small shells or ditalini are great choices as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.

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

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or incorporate different herbs for added flavor.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and tastes even better after resting overnight.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself falling in love!