Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that will surely win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup even on the busiest nights.
- Flavorful Comfort: Each bowl is packed with savory flavors from the Italian seasoning and fresh ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or pasta types for a personal touch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields about 10 cups, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
- Healthy and Hearty: Loaded with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the veggies, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while also helping to deglaze the pan.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1-inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds.)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (Minced)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
- 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
- 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour
Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir until combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid; reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately if preferred.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
After simmering, open the pot and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for an additional five minutes.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed with salt or spices according to preference.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors and comforting nature. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty sourdough or baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds an aromatic touch and complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top not only adds color but also brightens the dish with fresh flavors.
- Chives: Chopped chives offer a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad can balance the richness of the soup and add a crunchy texture.
- Mixed Greens: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide freshness and contrast to the hearty soup.
Add Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: Grate extra Parmesan cheese over each bowl for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Mozzarella Balls: Adding mozzarella balls can create a delightful melty effect, enhancing each spoonful.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or older ones.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and spices in stages helps achieve balanced flavors throughout the dish.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the soup to simmer on low heat melds all ingredients together, creating a harmonious taste.
- Consider Pasta Options: Different pasta shapes can alter texture; choose one that holds sauce well, like small shells or ditalini.
- Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the soup’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your meal while balancing flavors.
- Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides protein and fiber, enhancing the nutritional value of your dinner.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese are great for dipping into the soup and satisfying cravings for carbs.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat serve as a hearty side that complements the soup nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not seasoning properly – Failing to add enough salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Skipping the browning step – Skipping the initial browning of chicken can result in less flavor. Take the time to brown your chicken well for a richer taste.
- Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Add them in stages based on cooking times for optimum texture.
- Using low-quality broth – A subpar broth will diminish your soup’s flavor. Choose a high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.
- Adding cream too early – Adding heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the end of cooking to integrate the cream for a smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered soup until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Heat in intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
- Stovetop – Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup:
What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce inspired by Italian cuisine.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute any small pasta shape you prefer, such as orzo or ditalini, depending on your taste.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
To make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup gluten-free, use gluten-free flour as a thickener and ensure your broth and pasta are also gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and experience its delightful flavors!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings and busy weeknight dinners. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth infused with Italian flavors. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a comforting blend of savory goodness that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1–1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (Divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (Minced)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional)
- 6–8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (Italian small shells)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2–1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
- 2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes).
- Add carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic; sauté until vegetables are translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Stir in flour and mix well. If using tomato paste, add it now.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and remaining Italian seasoning. Cover and simmer on low for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
