Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe: A Creamy Tuscan Style Favorite
The very first time I ladled out a bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup, I was struck by how much it reminded me of cozy trattoria meals in Tuscany. The aroma of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan rising from the pot filled my kitchen with warmth. The first bite had everything I love creamy broth, tender chicken, and pasta that soaked up all the flavor. It felt like a love story in soup form, and I instantly knew why it has earned the nickname “marry me.” This dish combines the richness of a Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with the homestyle comfort of Italian-inspired classics.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Marry Me Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Cook chicken until golden, then remove and set aside.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in browned chicken. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and cooked pasta.
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with basil and more Parmesan to serve.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why you’ll love this creamy Tuscan chicken soup
- A Tuscan style chicken soup that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying.
- Creamy broth balanced with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan.
- Perfect one-pot meal for weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Customizable with pasta or a Tuscan chicken soup with tortellini twist.
- Comfort food at its finest — both elegant and family-friendly.
Ingredients for the best Tuscan chicken soup recipe
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes & Substitutions |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Chicken Breasts | 1.5 lbs, cubed | Swap with chicken thighs for extra tenderness |
| Yellow Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Sweet onions add mildness |
| Carrots | 1 cup, chopped | For natural sweetness |
| Celery | 1 cup, chopped | Classic soup base |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic works best |
| Chicken Broth | 8 cups | Use homemade for deeper flavor |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Half-and-half for lighter texture |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | 1/2 cup, chopped | Signature Tuscan flavor |
| Fresh Spinach | 5 oz | Kale or chard for variety |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Adds creaminess |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tbsp | Blend of oregano, basil, thyme |
| Dried Thyme | 1/2 tsp | Fresh thyme for stronger notes |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 tsp | Optional heat |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust carefully |
| Pasta | 2 cups cooked | Ditalini, orecchiette, or tortellini for Tuscan variation |
| Fresh Basil | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
How to make creamy Tuscan chicken soup step by step
- Brown the chicken
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Cook chicken until golden, then remove and set aside. - Sauté the base
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic until fragrant. - Simmer the broth
Pour in chicken broth, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer. - Add back the chicken
Stir in browned chicken. Add spinach and cook until just wilted. - Finish with cheese and pasta
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and pasta — or swap with Tuscan chicken soup with tortellini for extra richness. - Serve and garnish
Ladle soup into bowls. Top with basil and more Parmesan.
How to serve Marry Me Chicken Soup
- Pair with garlic bread or rosemary focaccia.
- Serve alongside a crisp Italian salad for balance.
- Try a holiday version with tortellini for a festive twist.
- Drizzle with olive oil and add cracked pepper before serving for restaurant-style flair.
How to perfect this Tuscan style chicken soup
- Brown chicken thoroughly to deepen flavor.
- Always use fresh Parmesan for smooth creaminess.
- Cook pasta separately, then stir in to avoid sogginess.
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- If reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen consistency.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding spinach too early (it will overcook).
- Using pre-grated Parmesan (it doesn’t melt smoothly).
- Overcooking pasta in the soup (turns mushy).
- Skipping sun-dried tomatoes — they give this soup its Tuscan identity.
Storage and reheating tips
| Method | Storage Time | Reheating Instructions |
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Warm gently, add broth if thick |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months (without pasta) | Thaw overnight, reheat slowly, cook pasta fresh |
Tip: Freeze without tortellini or pasta for best texture, then add freshly cooked when serving.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this Tuscan chicken soup recipe without cream?
Yes, swap with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Is Tuscan chicken soup with tortellini traditional?
It’s a popular variation — the cheesy pasta pockets add extra indulgence.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs make the soup juicier.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Simmer chicken, broth, and veggies on low for 6 hours, then add cream, spinach, and pasta.
Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Soup?
The flavors are so irresistible that it’s said to inspire love at first bite.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup blends rustic Italian flavors with modern comfort food appeal. Whether you prepare it as a classic Marry Me Chicken Soup, turn it into a festive Tuscan chicken soup with tortellini, or keep it simple as a homestyle Tuscan style chicken soup, it’s guaranteed to win hearts around the table. Save this recipe for your fall and winter menu, or share it with friends who need a bowl of love and comfort.
