Marry Me Chicken Soup (Tuscan Style)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup combines the beloved flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan in a creamy broth, creating a comforting and soul-soothing meal. It's easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The addition of spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide a rich and velvety texture.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 8 ounces dry pasta (such as shells or orecchiette)

• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until it deepens in color.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Add the dry pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded chicken, and chopped spinach.

7. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the soup becomes creamy.

9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

• Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, the texture may change upon reheating due to the dairy content.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I make Marry Me Chicken Soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup during cooking to introduce some heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with any small pasta shape you prefer, such as ditalini or farfalle.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs as a substitute for rotisserie chicken.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the soup dairy-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the pasta and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add the cooked pasta.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Soup?

Serve the soup with crusty bread, a green salad, or a side of crackers for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a delightful twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken dish, offering a creamy and comforting meal that's sure to impress. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this delicious soup with loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table.