Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is pure comfort in a bowl with juicy bites of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a velvety broth that feels like a hug at dinnertime. Inspired by Marry Me Chicken, it blends pantry-friendly ingredients and Tuscan flavors for a soup that is special enough for loved ones but easy enough for a weeknight. The rich cream sauce and tender pasta make every spoonful satisfying and memorable.

My first batch of this soup was at a family game night and I barely had leftovers Each time I serve it I get recipe requests and lots of happy faces around the table

Ingredients

• Olive oil: adds a subtle richness to sautéing and helps brown the chicken Use extra virgin for best flavor
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: bring protein and soak up the flavors Chicken thighs will stay juicier
• Italian seasoning: gives that classic Tuscan flavor blend Choose a fresh blend if possible
• Salt and pepper: build the flavor from the start Always taste as you go
• Carrots celery and onions: are the essential aromatics Choose firm veggies for freshness
• Sundried tomatoes: give a concentrated sweet and tangy flavor Look for oil-packed for more richness
• Garlic cloves: bring a punch of savory aroma Use fresh for best results
• Flour: thickens the soup and helps everything become creamy Pick unbleached for better taste
• Tomato paste: is optional but adds a lovely depth and slight acidity Try double-concentrated for a bolder kick
• Chicken broth: forms the base Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness or go homemade for even more flavor
• Pasta: Italian small shells soak up the creamy sauce but any small shape works
• Heavy cream: creates a luxurious texture Use full-fat for best results
• Parmesan reggiano: gives salty nutty flavor freshly grated works best
• Fresh spinach: adds color and gentle earthiness Look for crisp vibrant leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Brown diced chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat with half the Italian seasoning and a generous amount of salt and pepper Let the chicken develop a golden crust for deep flavor about four to five minutes Give each piece some space so they do not steam

Build the Flavor Base:

Add diced onions carrots celery sundried tomatoes and garlic into the same pot Sauté until the vegetables become soft and translucent about three to four minutes Scrape up the fond from the pan bottom for max flavor

Add Flour and Tomato Paste:

Sprinkle in flour gradually while stirring thoroughly so it coats the veggies and chicken evenly If using tomato paste stir it in now Cook for another minute to toast the flour and paste for a deeper taste

Deglaze and Simmer:

Slowly whisk in chicken broth a little at a time pausing to stir and dissolve any lumps Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits Bring everything to a rolling boil

Add Pasta and Simmer:

Stir in the pasta the remaining Italian seasoning salt and pepper Cover with a lid then lower the heat letting it simmer for about twenty minutes Check that the pasta is al dente and chicken is cooked through If needed cook pasta separately and stir in at the end

Finish with Cream and Spinach:

Uncover the pot then pour in the heavy cream add fresh spinach and parmesan Stir and let everything simmer for five more minutes until the cheese melts and the greens wilt

Final Taste Check:

Give the soup a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed Thin the soup out with extra broth if you want it less creamy

Pin

I always look forward to the parmesan moment in this recipe There is something magical about how the cheese melts into the broth and brings everything together My kids love sprinkling extra cheese on their bowls at the table which has become a fun memory for us

Storage Tips

This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days Store it in airtight containers and add extra broth when reheating if it gets too thick Pasta can absorb more liquid over time so reheating slowly is best to keep it creamy and not mushy

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy free option use coconut milk or a plant based cream cheese For gluten free soup try substituting with gluten free pasta or leaving out the pasta entirely and adding extra veggies You can use rotisserie chicken in place of fresh just add it at the end so it warms through without drying out

Serving Suggestions

This soup shines with a crusty bread on the side for dunking A sprinkle of fresh basil or cracked black pepper on top before serving takes it up a notch It also pairs well with a crisp green salad or as a starter for a cozy Italian inspired meal

Pin

Cultural and Historical Context

Tuscan soups often use rustic ingredients and creamy broths for maximum comfort Marry Me Chicken is said to have earned its name because it is so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal This soup version brings those dreamy flavors in a cozy format perfect for busy nights or special occasions

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra flavor and tenderness. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ What is the best way to avoid mushy pasta?

Boil the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving. This keeps the texture firm and prevents overcooking.

→ Can the soup be made ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. For best results, store the pasta separately and add before serving to maintain texture.

→ How can I adjust the soup's thickness?

Add extra chicken broth to thin the soup, or reduce the amount for a thicker, creamier texture as you prefer.

→ Are there alternatives for heavy cream?

Try half and half, whole milk, or coconut milk as substitutes, though they may slightly change the consistency.

→ What can I serve alongside this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a crisp side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.