If you are on the hunt for a soup that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl, then you absolutely must try the Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe. This dish combines tender cubes of golden chicken with savory sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant Italian herbs, creamy Parmesan, and fresh spinach, creating a symphony of flavors that will have you hooked from the very first spoonful. The rich and comforting Tuscan-inspired broth brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that is both elegant and deeply satisfying—perfect for any day you want a taste of Italy right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it is creating depth, adding vibrant color, or balancing smooth textures. You won’t need a long list to make this soul-warming dish, but every item is essential to bring out those classic Tuscan flavors.
- Olive oil: Use good quality olive oil to sauté and infuse your soup with authentic Mediterranean richness.
- Chicken breast, cubed: Tender and lean, this protein forms the hearty base of the soup.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle bite when cooked down.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that unmistakable aromatic kick.
- Chicken broth: The comforting liquid base that carries all the flavors together.
- Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that softens the savory tang of the tomatoes.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Provide vibrant color and a concentrated sweet-tart flavor.
- Dried thyme, oregano, and basil: Classic Italian herbs that add earthiness and warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance and balance all flavors.
- Baby spinach leaves: Fresh green goodness that wilts into the broth for a nutritious lift.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup, giving it a savory, cheesy depth.
- Fresh basil, chopped: A fragrant garnish that adds a fresh touch to each serving.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the cubed chicken breast, letting each piece develop a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in juices and builds a rich flavor foundation. Once browned, set the chicken aside so you have that flavorful base ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. The caramelized onions add natural sweetness while the garlic infuses the oil with its unmistakable aroma. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the kitchen fills with that cozy scent that signals something delicious is underway.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Now stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the fragrant trio of dried thyme, oregano, and basil. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. This infusion simmers together to marry those vibrant flavors perfectly before adding your protein back in.
Step 4: Simmer Chicken to Tenderness
Return the browned chicken back to the pot and allow it to gently simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. This slow melding lets the chicken soak up the herbal, tangy broth, becoming meltingly tender while the flavors develop a beautiful depth and harmony. Be patient here—it’s worth it.
Step 5: Cream and Spinach
Once your chicken is tender, stir in the heavy cream followed by the baby spinach leaves. As the spinach wilts, it adds a fresh, vibrant color and a satisfying green earthiness to contrast the creamy broth. The heavy cream enriches the soup, giving it that luxurious, velvety texture that makes this recipe so memorable.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup. This step elevates the dish with a sharp, slightly nutty flavor that rounds off the creaminess and herbaceous notes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this final touch brings your Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe to perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil right before serving for that fragrant, fresh lift. Ladle your soup hot into bowls and watch your friends and family swoon with delight as they take their first comforting sip of this Tuscan treasure.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe
Garnishes
Always have fresh basil on hand to sprinkle on top; it adds a burst of color and brightness that perfectly complements the creamy, savory flavors. A little extra grated Parmesan at the table invites your guests to customize their bowl with a cheesy flourish. If you want a slight crunch, toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of chili oil works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with crusty Italian bread or warm focaccia bread makes it even more satisfying. Garlic breadsticks or a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette help round out the meal without overwhelming the delicate Tuscan flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe in rustic bowls to highlight its hearty, homey charm. For special occasions, you can ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible vessel that adds texture and fun. Garnish with edible flowers or fresh herb sprigs to elevate the presentation, making your soup feel like a special event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have fully married. Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the soup before sealing to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
Because this soup contains cream and Parmesan, freezing can slightly change the texture but it’s definitely possible. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from breaking. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the soup’s silky texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can cause uneven heating and separation of ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you an even juicier, more flavorful bite, thanks to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.
Is sun-dried tomato paste a good substitute for chopped sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use sun-dried tomato paste, but remember it’s more concentrated and less textured. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the soup’s balance.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or omit it altogether. These swaps keep it creamy while catering to dairy restrictions.
How spicy is this Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe?
It’s not spicy at all by default, making it perfect for all palates. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during the sauté of aromatics or add a dash of hot sauce at the table.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients except spinach, cream, and Parmesan to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the spinach, cream, and Parmesan near the end and stir until melted and combined.
Final Thoughts
There’s something about the Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe that feels truly special, like a secret recipe you want to share with everyone you care about. It’s comforting yet elegant, simple but packed with layers of flavor that make every spoonful unforgettable. I hope you’ll give this beautiful Tuscan-inspired soup a try soon; it might just become your go-to meal for cozy nights and happy gatherings alike!
Print
Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tuscan, Italian
Description
This Marry Me Chicken Soup is a comforting Tuscan-style dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and creamy Parmesan in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it delivers a rich, savory taste with Mediterranean flair in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the Soup: Return the chicken to the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Add Cream and Spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and baby spinach, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less creamy.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- To make ahead, prepare the soup until step 5, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat and add cheese before serving.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
