If you’re craving a warm hug in a bowl that feels like a comforting Italian embrace, the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is exactly what you need. This soup blends juicy chicken pieces with the richness of heavy cream, the earthiness of fresh spinach, and the subtle tang of sundried tomatoes, all lingering in a luscious broth tossed with small pasta shells. Every spoonful tells a story of cozy kitchens and heartfelt moments, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that create layers of flavor and an inviting texture. Each item brings its own unique touch—from the tender chicken that forms the heart of the soup to the fresh spinach that adds vibrant color and nutrients, and the creamy Parmesan that ties everything together beautifully.

Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing, adding subtle richness without overpowering the flavors.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Use juicy, diced pieces for tender bites throughout the soup.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings classic Italian herbs to the party, enhancing the savory notes.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and amplifying every flavor in the soup.
Diced carrots, celery, and onions: The holy trinity of soups, these veggies offer sweetness, depth, and texture.
Sundried tomatoes: Provide a tangy punch that brightens the broth beautifully.
Garlic cloves: Minced for aromatic warmth that seeps into every spoonful.
Flour: Helps to thicken the soup into a creamy, luscious consistency.
Tomato paste (optional): Adds a subtle richness and deeper flavor complexity if you choose to include it.
Chicken broth: The soul of the soup, bringing it all together with savory depth.
Italian small shell pasta: Perfectly sized to get coated in the creamy broth and nestle alongside chicken and veggies.
Heavy whipping cream: The luxurious ingredient that transforms this soup into a velvety dream.
Grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese: Infuses salty, nutty richness that elevates every bite.
Fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, green burst of nutrition and vibrant color at the very end.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced chicken along with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brown those pieces until they develop a gorgeous golden crust, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in juices and builds a savory base that’ll make every spoonful sing.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Aromatics

Without removing the chicken, add diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic straight into the pot. Give everything a stir and cook until the veggies turn soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll start smelling that incredible mix that hints at the cozy meal ahead.

Step 3: Create the Base with Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir carefully to combine. Adding the flour gradually prevents clumps and helps thicken the soup nicely. If you decide to use tomato paste, stir it in now to enrich the broth’s flavor with subtle tomato depth.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Deglaze

Slowly whisk in your chicken broth a bit at a time, stirring consistently to avoid lumps. This step deglazes the pan, lifting all those browned bits from the bottom, infusing your soup with maximum flavor. You might start with 6 cups and add more later if you want a thinner soup.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup with Pasta and Seasonings

Crank the heat up until the soup reaches a rolling boil. Add the small shell pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and lower the heat, letting everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This gives the chicken time to cook through and the pasta to become perfectly tender yet firm.

Step 6: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Cheese

Remove the pot lid and pour in the heavy whipping cream, fresh spinach leaves, and a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the cheese to melt into a silky texture. This final touch is what transforms the soup into the cherished Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup we all love.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give your soup a taste test and tweak seasonings with more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if needed. This little bit of customizing ensures every bowl is as delightful and comforting as you want it to be.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Think fresh! A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil, or a handful of torn fresh basil leaves make fantastic garnishes. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat that contrasts so nicely with the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

This soup stands beautifully on its own for a satisfying meal, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots invites your guests to soak up every last bit of that luscious broth. A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bowls for that charming Tuscan feel, or consider hollowing out mini pretzel bread bowls for an irresistible, edible presentation. For a fun twist, top each bowl with crispy pancetta or toasted pine nuts, adding an unexpected crunch that dazzles the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup keeps exceptionally well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in airtight containers to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors. Just a quick gentle stir before reheating will bring it back to life beautifully.

Freezing

Although creamy soups can sometimes separate when frozen, this recipe freezes quite well if you leave out the heavy cream and spinach initially. Freeze the soup base, then add cream and fresh spinach when reheating. This way, you maintain that silky texture and vibrant color when it’s time to enjoy again.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If you’ve frozen the soup without cream or spinach, add those ingredients in towards the end of reheating to keep the soup fresh and luscious. Avoid using high heat to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and tend to stay juicy, making them a fantastic choice for the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup. Just dice them evenly and cook until nicely browned.

Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap small shell pasta for other small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even mini farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some pasta shapes cook faster than others.

What’s the best way to make the soup less creamy?

Simply reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter touch. You can also skip the cream altogether, but expect a less velvety broth and a more broth-forward flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

While the soup’s heart is the chicken broth and chicken itself, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and substituting chicken for hearty mushrooms or tofu for protein. Just adjust seasonings to keep that Tuscan flavor alive.

Why is the soup called “Marry Me”?

It’s named for its irresistibly rich and comforting flavor that’s rumored to be so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal. The creamy, herby goodness of this Tuscan classic makes it a memorable dish for special moments.

Final Thoughts

Once you dive into a bowl of the Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved recipe to share and savor again and again. Its balance of tender chicken, fresh veggies, hearty pasta, and that luscious creamy broth makes every meal feel special. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and create a soup experience that warms the heart and soul perfectly.

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 5 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and comforting dish blending tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy Parmesan-infused broth with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this soup combines wholesome ingredients and easy steps to deliver a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken along with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Add Flour and Tomato Paste: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to combine, adding it in stages to prevent excess drying. If using, incorporate the tomato paste now and stir thoroughly.
Incorporate Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Scrape the bottom of the pot with your spoon to deglaze and lift any browned bits for added flavor.
Simmer with Pasta: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add the pasta along with the remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and the pasta al dente. Alternatively, boil the pasta separately and add it later.
Finish the Soup: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the soup to thicken slightly.
Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed before serving.

Notes

For a thicker soup, use the full 8 cups of chicken broth to start or adjust pasta quantity accordingly.
Tomato paste is optional but adds a richer depth of flavor and a slight tang.
Cooking pasta directly in the soup simplifies preparation, but cooking separately prevents over-softening.
Use freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano for the best flavor and texture.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but this will reduce creaminess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Tuscan/Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Tuscan chicken soup, creamy chicken soup, Italian soup recipe, easy chicken soup, Parmesan chicken soup, Marry Me Chicken Soup, comfort soup