Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting and delicious about a bowl of soup that feels like a warm embrace, and that’s exactly what you get with the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup. This savory, rich, and hearty soup brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and subtly tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious creamy broth that’s perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and a lovely hint of Parmesan cheese. If you’re craving a dish that can cozy up chilly evenings or impress family and friends without hours of fuss, this recipe will quickly become your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From tender chicken to fresh greens and creamy cheese, these components work harmoniously to bring the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup to life.

• Olive oil: For a fragrant base that gently sautés the chicken and vegetables without overpowering them.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1-1 1/2 pounds): The hearty protein star of the soup, diced for quicker cooking and tender bites.
• Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons, divided): A classic blend that infuses the soup with aromatic Mediterranean flair.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors and creating depth.
• Diced carrots (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
• Diced celery (1/2 cup): Provides a fresh, crisp undertone to balance richness.
• Diced onions (1/2 cup): Creates a fragrant, savory foundation.
• Diced sun-dried tomatoes (1/4 cup): Brings a delightful tangy punch and color contrast.
• Minced garlic cloves (3): For that unmistakable Italian aroma that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
• Flour (1/4 cup): Used to thicken the soup gently, creating that glorious creamy texture.
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons, optional): Boosts the tomato flavor if you want an extra depth and richness.
• Chicken broth (6-8 cups): The flavorful liquid that brings everything together—the quantity can be adjusted for soup consistency.
• Small pasta (6 oz, such as Italian shells): Adds bite-sized, comforting carbs that soak up the creamy broth.
• Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): The magic ingredient that transforms the soup into a wildly creamy, indulgent experience.
• Grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese (1/2 to 1 cup): Offers a salty, nutty finish and helps thicken the soup further.
• Fresh spinach (2 1/2 to 3 cups): Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost that balances the creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. This initial browning locks in flavor and starts building the soup’s rich base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook them until they become translucent and just tender, around 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens the veggies and deepens the flavor foundation for the soup.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetable and chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine and cook for a minute or two to get rid of the raw flour taste. If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and mix well to meld it into the base, providing a subtle tomato richness that brightens the soup.

Step 4: Incorporate the Broth

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. This process ensures there are no lumps and helps deglaze the pan by loosening those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Use about 6 cups to start and add more later if you like a soup with more liquid.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Seasonings, Then Simmer

Bring the soup to a rolling boil and add the pasta alongside the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is tender and pasta is perfectly al dente. If you prefer, cook the pasta separately and add it in later to avoid over-softening.

Step 6: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Parmesan

Remove the pot lid and pour in the heavy cream, then add fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and spinach to wilt, creating that signature creamy and velvety finish.

Step 7: Final Seasoning Check

Give your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup a final taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. This last step ensures every spoonful bursts with balanced flavor and warmth.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Garnishes

When serving, consider topping your soup with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, a handful of fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These small touches not only elevate the appearance but add fresh notes that complement the creamy richness of the soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping, offering a satisfying texture contrast. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing counterbalance to the soup’s indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup in mini bread bowls or rustic mugs to add a cozy, inviting feel. You could also layer it with pasta in a shallow wide bowl, finishing with a sprinkle of herbs and cheese for a beautiful and Instagram-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, this soup freezes well but keep in mind the spinach and pasta can become a bit softer after thawing. For best texture, consider freezing the soup without the pasta and adding fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling of the cream. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up to your liking.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more flavor and remain juicy, making them a fantastic choice for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The soup will still be creamy and delicious.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then combine everything in your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding cream, spinach, and cheese near the end.

What pasta alternatives work well in this soup?

Small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti work perfectly. Choose a pasta that cooks quickly and pairs well with creamy soups.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

For sure. Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would all be lovely additions, adding more texture and flavor layers to the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress or simply enjoy a bowl of hearty, soul-warming comfort, the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a must-try. With its lush creaminess, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies, this recipe hits all the right notes. From busy weeknights to leisurely weekend dinners, it always feels like a meal made with love. So grab your apron and dive in—this soup might just earn a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation!

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