If you’re searching for an easy dinner recipe that combines elegance, comfort, and bold flavor, this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup will win your heart—and your dinner guests’. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken, this soup takes everything you love about the classic dish and transforms it into a soul-warming bowl of creamy goodness.
Every spoonful is packed with tender chunks of chicken, sweet carrots, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach—all swimming in a velvety Parmesan cream broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The aroma alone—garlic, Italian herbs, and rich cheese melting into warm cream—will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Whether you’re craving family comfort food, healthy weeknight meals, or a restaurant-worthy dish made from scratch, this Tuscan-inspired chicken soup checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy comfort: A velvety broth made with Parmesan, cream, and Italian herbs that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
- Quick and easy prep: Ready in under an hour with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Wholesome and filling: Protein-packed chicken, veggies, and pasta make it a complete meal.
- Budget-friendly luxury: Get gourmet flavor without restaurant prices using affordable groceries.
- Perfect for family dinners: Loved by kids and adults alike—ideal for simple family recipes.
- Great for meal prep: Freezes and reheats beautifully, perfect for healthy lunch prep or freezer meals.
Ingredient Breakdown
Olive Oil (1 tsp) – The base for sautéing chicken and vegetables, adding richness and depth of flavor. Perfect for healthy cooking at home.
Chicken (1–1½ lb, cut into 1-inch pieces) – The star of the dish. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy bites that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Italian Seasoning (2 tsp, divided) – Brings that signature Tuscan flavor with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. A must-have in easy dinner recipes.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.
Carrots, Celery, and Onions (½ cup each) – This aromatic trio creates the classic soup foundation and adds natural sweetness.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (¼ cup, diced) – The secret ingredient that gives Marry Me Chicken its irresistible tang and depth. Adds bold, gourmet flavor without extra effort.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A Tuscan staple that infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
Flour (¼ cup) – Helps thicken the soup to a luxuriously creamy consistency.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp, optional) – Deepens the flavor and adds a touch of color and richness. Perfect if you love a slightly tangier broth.
Chicken Broth (6–8 cups) – Forms the base of the soup, keeping it light yet flavorful. Opt for low-sodium broth to control seasoning.
Small Pasta (6 oz, like shells or ditalini) – Adds body to the soup, turning it into a hearty meal that satisfies.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – The key to that dreamy, smooth texture that makes this dish so comforting.
Parmesan Reggiano Cheese (½–1 cup, grated) – Adds savory, nutty depth and makes the broth irresistibly cheesy.
Fresh Spinach (2½–3 cups) – A burst of color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and gives a smoother, more flavorful broth than pre-shredded cheese.
- Sear the chicken first. Browning it before simmering adds depth and locks in flavor.
- Whisk slowly when adding broth. This prevents lumps and creates a perfectly smooth soup base.
- Add pasta near the end. Overcooking can make pasta mushy; aim for al dente.
- Finish with a splash of cream at the end. It keeps the soup luxuriously rich without separating.
These easy cooking tips guarantee consistent, restaurant-quality results every time.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and add cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly recipe.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free flour and pasta for a celiac-friendly meal.
- Add Heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Protein Boost: Stir in white beans or chickpeas for extra fiber and texture.
These healthy recipe alternatives make it easy to adapt this dish for any diet or preference.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides for a cozy dinner spread. Try serving it with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into that creamy broth.
- A crisp Caesar salad for freshness and balance.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
- Crusty sourdough bread for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
- A light glass of white wine to complement the rich Parmesan cream.
Whether served as a hearty lunch, weeknight dinner, or elegant starter, this dish fits beautifully into any menu of healthy weeknight meals.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
- Meal Prep: Make the soup base (without pasta or cream) ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add the pasta and cream just before reheating for best texture.
- Freezing: Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the texture.
- Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Perfect for next-day lunches or meal prep recipes.
These best freezer meal strategies make it easy to enjoy homemade comfort food anytime.
A Touch of Tuscan Inspiration
The name “Marry Me Chicken” originated from the idea that this creamy, dreamy dish is so good it might just earn you a marriage proposal! This soup version carries the same romantic appeal but in a cozier, spoonable form. Inspired by Italian farmhouse cooking and American comfort food classics, it celebrates rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and the joy of sharing a meal that feels both rustic and refined.
With ingredients like Parmesan, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, it captures the essence of Tuscany—where simple, high-quality ingredients are turned into extraordinary meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Make the soup base without pasta and cream, then add those when reheating for a fresh, silky texture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating the cream.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely. Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt and use whole-wheat pasta or cauliflower rice.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken cuts prep time in half and adds even more flavor.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Small shapes like shells, ditalini, or elbows work best because they hold the creamy broth perfectly.
Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to combine. Add tomato paste if using and mix well.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Stir until smooth.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add pasta and the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until pasta and chicken are cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes until soup thickens slightly and spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
