Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)
Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup is a warm and comforting dish inspired by the rustic flavors of Italy. This hearty soup features tender shredded chicken, cannellini beans, and vibrant vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and spinach, all simmered in a rich, herb-infused broth. A touch of garlic, rosemary, and thyme enhances the deep, savory flavors, while a splash of cream or Parmesan cheese adds a luscious finish. The result is a nourishing and flavorful soup that’s perfect for cozy nights or a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 Ib boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes julienned
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the Italian seasoning. Simmer for another 10 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
- Finish with Spinac: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Not only is this soup packed with protein and nutrients, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. It can be prepared on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot for a quick and convenient meal.
Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup is a must-try recipe that delivers both comfort and taste in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates an irresistibly smooth and indulgent texture.
- Flavorful: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning bring bold Tuscan flavors.
- Easy to Make: A one-pot recipe that comes together in about 40 minutes.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to fit different dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and can be enjoyed for several days.
Recipe Variations
- Make it Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Lower Fat Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Pasta Lover’s Version: Stir in cooked pasta such as orzo, tortellini, or penne.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This soup is filling on its own, but here are some great ways to enjoy it even more:- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Because soup and grilled cheese are a match made in heaven!
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing:
- If freezing, omit the spinach and heavy cream until ready to serve.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When reheating, add fresh spinach and cream for the best texture.