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 Comfort Food: The combination of creamy broth and tender chicken creates a heartwarming dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Quick Preparation: With just 50 minutes total time, you can have a delightful meal ready for your family or guests.
- Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses common ingredients, making it easy to whip up on any weeknight.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving at gatherings or family dinners; it’s sure to impress everyone!
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with veggies and protein, it’s not just tasty but also healthy.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything organized will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly and providing enough space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and ensuring even mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
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 Olive Oil
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, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add:
Diced onions
Diced carrots
Diced celery
Sundried tomatoes
Minced garlic
Cook until the vegetables are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine.
Add flour in stages to avoid excess drying.
If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously.
Ensure there are no lumps by deglazing the bottom of the pan using your spoon.
Step 5: Cook Pasta in Soup
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Add pasta along with an additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cover the pot with a lid, lower the heat, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until both chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. You can also boil pasta separately if preferred.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Spinach
Open the pot after simmering.
Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Let it simmer for an additional five minutes.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Finally, taste your soup!
Adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed before serving hot.
Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup! Enjoy its rich flavors with family or friends.
How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is an opportunity to elevate this delightful dish. From garnishes to pairings, these suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation of your soup.
Garnish Options
- Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of toasted baguette or ciabatta for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.
- Parmesan Shavings: Top with thin shavings of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy soups.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Serving Temperature
- Hot & Steamy: Ensure the soup is served hot for the best taste experience, keeping it warm on the stove until ready to serve.
How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
To achieve the best version of this comforting soup, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure a deliciously creamy and flavorful outcome every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to amplify the flavors in your soup.
- Control the Thickness: Adjust broth quantity to control how thick or soupy you want your dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: If adding pasta directly to the soup, cook it just until al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors, so don’t rush this step!
- Taste Test Often: Regularly taste as you cook; adjusting seasonings ensures perfect balance in flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich mashed potatoes make a comforting side that complements the soup well.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring brightness and acidity that balance the creaminess.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese are perfect for dipping into your flavorful soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and bold flavor alongside your soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Savory stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a hearty companion to your meal.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomato mixtures creates a vibrant starter that pairs beautifully with creamy soups.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some mistakes to avoid.
- Using cold chicken: Always start with room temperature chicken for even cooking. Cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking and a less tender result.
- Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze the pot after browning the chicken can cause burnt bits to affect the taste. Use your spoon to scrape up those flavorful bits before adding broth.
- Adding all ingredients at once: This can lead to overcooked vegetables or undercooked pasta. Introduce ingredients in stages, as outlined in the recipe, for better results.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning accordingly. Adding salt and pepper at the end ensures flavors are balanced.
- Ignoring simmering time: Rushing through cooking can result in tough chicken and undercooked pasta. Allow enough time for simmering to achieve tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until piping hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have more questions about making this delicious soup, here are some common inquiries.
How can I make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick of heat.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta works best for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini work best as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.
Can I customize the vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a comforting dish; it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the creaminess level. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that warms both body and soul!
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. This delightful soup is perfect for cozy nights and weeknight dinners alike, making it a beloved favorite for family gatherings or intimate meals. With its comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Experience the warmth and deliciousness of every spoonful with this easy-to-make recipe that brings comfort to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 – 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 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)
- 6–8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (like small shells)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2–1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (4–5 minutes).
- Add diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Sprinkle in flour and stir well. If using it, add tomato paste now.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and remaining seasoning. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
