Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

Get ready to fall in love with this comforting Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)! A blend of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners. Packed with flavor and warmth in every spoonful, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or paired with salad and bread for a complete dinner.
• Comforting & Hearty: This soup provides warmth and comfort, making it ideal for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Great for Leftovers: Marry Me Chicken Soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

When making Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style), having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for smooth preparation.

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: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring an even mix of flavors.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients needed to create this delightful dish:

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
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 (start with 6 cups, see notes)
6 oz pasta (e.g., Italian small shells)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2–1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 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, approximately 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir well.

Step 4: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure no lumps form. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately then add at the end.

Step 6: Incorporate Creamy Elements

Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and spices if needed.

Enjoy your homemade Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will elevate the experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich flavors and adds texture to each bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the creamy broth.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad. A simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and is perfect for soaking up every last drop.

With Cheese Crisps

• Accompany your soup with homemade cheese crisps. These crunchy treats add a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at gatherings. It’s a great way to introduce guests to this comforting dish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

To achieve the best version of Marry Me Chicken Soup, consider these useful tips that make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value, making it more vibrant and tasty.
• Adjust Thickness: Start with 6 cups of chicken broth for a thicker consistency; add more later if you prefer it thinner.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving. This keeps it al dente.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.
• Consider Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, keeping in mind that texture will change slightly.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an easier preparation, utilize your slow cooker. Just add everything except pasta and cream, then stir in those ingredients shortly before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the soup’s flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and richness that pairs well with creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavor variety to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an appealing starter.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites offer an earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup’s creaminess.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that complements the dish perfectly.
7. Focaccia Breadsticks: These soft, herbed breadsticks are ideal for dipping into your rich soup.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that kids will love; cut them into small triangles for easy dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make mistakes that can affect the quality of their Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style). Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using Too Much Broth: Starting with more than 6 cups of chicken broth can lead to a soupy texture. Begin with 6 cups and adjust as needed for your desired thickness.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Always check for doneness after about 20 minutes when simmering.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Neglecting to deglaze the pot can result in burnt bits affecting flavor. Use your spoon to scrape the bottom before adding more ingredients.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: If you add spinach too soon, it can wilt excessively. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking for optimal texture and color.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end is a missed opportunity for flavor enhancement. Always taste before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) unique?

Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) stands out due to its rich blend of flavors, combining tender chicken, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables that create a comforting meal.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to swap out small shells for any other small pasta shapes you prefer, such as ditalini or orzo.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese.

What is the best way to serve this soup?

Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Customize your Marry Me Chicken Soup by adding vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or peas according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) is not only delicious but also versatile. With its creamy base and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or pasta shapes. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners!

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