Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a creamy, hearty dish inspired by Tuscan flavors. It combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and a rich, velvety broth to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy meal for colder months, or an impressive dish for guests, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a smooth, luxurious texture.
• Packed with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning add depth and complexity.
• Hearty and Filling: With chicken, pasta, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to fit dietary needs, such as making it gluten-free or dairy-free.
• Easy to Make: Ready in under an hour with simple steps and minimal prep.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To ensure the best results, gather these kitchen essentials:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven – Provides even heat distribution for cooking the soup.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For dicing chicken, vegetables, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – Helps stir the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
• Ladle – Makes serving the soup easier.

Preparation Tips

• Chop ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking.
• Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• If using pre-cooked chicken, add it near the end to avoid overcooking.
• For meal prep, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 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

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Soup Base & Thickening Agents

• 1/4 cup flour (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for extra tomato flavor)
• 6–8 cups chicken broth (start with 6 cups, adjust as needed)

Creamy & Flavorful Additions

• 6 oz pasta (small Italian shells or your choice)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2–1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
• 2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
• Add diced chicken, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.

3. Thicken the Base

• Sprinkle flour over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
• Stir in tomato paste if using, then cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Add Broth & Simmer

• Gradually whisk in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
• Bring the soup to a rolling boil.

5. Cook the Pasta

• Stir in pasta, remaining Italian seasoning, and additional salt and pepper if needed.
• Cover and reduce heat to a simmer for 20 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. (If you plan to store leftovers, cook pasta separately and add it before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.)

6. Add Cream, Spinach & Cheese

• Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
• Let simmer for 5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the broth.

7. Taste & Serve

• Adjust seasoning if needed.
• Serve warm with additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for cozy meals.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup

While this soup is hearty enough to stand alone, serving it with a complementary side dish can create a well-rounded meal. Here are eight delicious options:

1. Crusty Artisan Bread

A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. A rustic sourdough or a classic baguette pairs well, offering a crispy crust and a chewy center.

2. Garlic Butter Breadsticks

Soft and buttery with a hint of garlic, breadsticks add a delicious crunch and extra flavor. Serve them warm and lightly toasted for the best experience.

3. Tuscan Kale Salad

A light and refreshing salad made with kale, cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and a lemon-garlic vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy oven-roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze provide a slightly sweet, caramelized contrast to the creamy soup.

5. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze, add a light and refreshing touch to the meal.

6. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus spears with Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon bring a crisp, fresh side to balance the richness of the soup.

7. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

For a unique contrast, sweet melon wrapped in salty prosciutto adds a delightful mix of flavors that complements the Tuscan ingredients in the soup.

8. Classic Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and a creamy dressing pairs well with the warmth and creaminess of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

To make sure your soup turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Chicken

If chicken is left simmering for too long, it can become dry and tough. To prevent this:

• Dice the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Cook it just until browned before adding broth.
• If using rotisserie chicken, add it near the end to avoid overcooking.

2. Letting the Pasta Get Mushy

Since pasta continues to absorb liquid, it can become soft and mushy in leftovers. Prevent this by:

• Cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual servings.
• If cooking pasta in the soup, reduce the simmering time slightly.

3. Making the Soup Too Thick or Too Thin

The consistency of the soup depends on the balance of broth, cream, and thickening agents. Adjust as needed:

• For a thicker soup: Use less broth, or stir in cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry.
• For a thinner soup: Add an extra cup of broth or water when reheating.

4. Skipping the Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is essential for the soup’s signature rich and savory flavor. Always use freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano for the best results. Pre-grated cheese may not melt properly and can make the soup grainy.

5. Not Seasoning in Layers

Adding all the seasoning at the end can leave the soup underwhelming in flavor. Instead:

• Season the chicken while browning.
• Adjust salt and pepper after adding the broth.
• Taste and fine-tune after stirring in the cheese and cream.

6. Overcrowding the Soup with Ingredients

While it’s tempting to add extra pasta, chicken, or vegetables, overloading the soup can make it too thick and stew-like. Maintain balance by sticking to the recommended quantities or adjusting the liquid accordingly.

7. Using Low-Quality Broth

Since broth is the base of the soup, using a high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock makes a big difference in flavor. If using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium variety and adjust seasoning as needed.

Tips for Enhancing the Flavor

To take this soup to the next level, consider these expert tips:

1. Add a Dash of White Wine

A splash of dry white wine while sautéing the onions and garlic enhances the soup’s depth of flavor. Let it cook for a minute to burn off the alcohol before adding broth.

2. Use a Parmesan Rind

For extra richness, drop a Parmesan cheese rind into the soup while it simmers. Remove before serving for a deeper, more intense flavor.

3. Try Sun-Dried Tomato Oil

Instead of regular olive oil, use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to sauté the chicken and vegetables. This adds another layer of Tuscan-inspired flavor.

4. Garnish with Fresh Basil

A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil before serving brightens the dish and complements the sun-dried tomatoes.

5. Add a Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Use Half-and-Half for a Lighter Option

To reduce the richness, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. The texture will be slightly thinner but still creamy.

7. Slow Cooker Adaptation

For an effortless version, cook this soup in a slow cooker:

• Add chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
• Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
• Stir in cream, spinach, and Parmesan before serving.

Recipe Tips & Variations

1. Adjusting the Creaminess

• For a richer texture, add cream cheese instead of flour for thickening.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or full-fat coconut milk.
• For an ultra-luxurious soup, stir in an extra ¼ cup of Parmesan at the end.

2. Choosing the Right Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender than chicken breasts.
• Rotisserie chicken works well for a shortcut—just shred it and add it at the end.
• Bone-in chicken can be used for deeper flavor, but remove the bones before serving.

3. Swapping the Pasta

• If using gluten-free pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Orzo, ditalini, or small shells work best, but you can also use rice or quinoa for a different twist.

4. Boosting the Flavor

• Add a splash of white wine while cooking the onions and garlic for extra depth.
• Toss in red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
• Stir in a spoonful of pesto before serving for a fresh, herby finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken over time, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
• Freezer: For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy after thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed through.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on low heat for about 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

If the soup has been stored with the pasta, the pasta may become too soft. To prevent this, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings just before eating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, for a slow cooker version:

• Add chicken, broth, vegetables, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
• Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
• Stir in cooked pasta, cream, spinach, and Parmesan in the last 15 minutes before serving.

2. What’s the Best Pasta for This Soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, small shells, or elbow macaroni work best. Larger pasta shapes may absorb too much liquid and become overly soft.

3. Can I Make It Dairy-Free?

Yes, to make it dairy-free:

• Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
• Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

4. How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?

• Use gluten-free pasta or swap it with rice or quinoa.
• Replace flour with cornstarch to thicken the broth.

5. Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, if using pre-cooked chicken, add it at the end of cooking and let it warm through for about 5 minutes before serving.

6. How Can I Add More Protein?

• Stir in cannellini beans or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Add cooked Italian sausage for a heartier version.

7. What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?

• Use flour or cornstarch to thicken the broth.
• Stir in cream cheese or an extra handful of Parmesan for a richer texture.

8. Can I Add Extra Vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add:

• Mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Zucchini for a mild, slightly sweet touch.
• Bell peppers for a hint of sweetness and color.

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Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with Tuscan flavors. Whether served fresh or reheated later, it remains a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize. By following these tips, avoiding common mistakes, and choosing the best storage methods, you can enjoy a perfect bowl every time.