Imagine a bowl of creamy, flavorful soup infused with sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs. Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of a traditional Tuscan recipe with the indulgence of a creamy base. Whether you're cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this soup is guaranteed to win hearts—perhaps even a marriage proposal!
Ingredients: What You'll Need
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Tuscan Flavors:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed basil (or fresh basil for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked pasta (such as orecchiette or penne) for added texture
- 1/2 cup white beans for extra protein
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pot, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on the outside but not fully cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
4. Add Creamy Goodness
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Finish with Greens
Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using optional add-ins like pasta or beans, mix them in at this stage.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for the ultimate dining experience.
Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- For Extra Creaminess: Substitute half of the heavy cream with cream cheese for a velvety texture.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Boost the Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken for a faster meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing Tip: Omit the spinach before freezing and add fresh greens when reheating for the best texture.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the pasta and beans, and increase the amount of chicken and spinach.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
What to Serve with Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Crusty Bread: A rustic baguette or garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the Tuscan flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts: A Soup to Savor and Share
Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special someone, this dish is sure to create lasting memories. With its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s easy to see why this soup has earned such a romantic name. Try it today, and who knows? You might just find someone falling in love with your cooking!
