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’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this rich and satisfying meal promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delightful soup even on busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and creamy elements creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly Meal: This soup is loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Ideal for Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day; this soup keeps well in the fridge.
Tools and Preparation
To get started with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather a few essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for even heat distribution, ensuring your soup cooks uniformly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 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)
For Thickening
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
For the Broth
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
For Adding Texture
- 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
For Freshness
- 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
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, which should take about 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until they become translucent; this will take around 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken It Up
Sprinkle the flour throughout the vegetable mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excessive drying. If you’re using tomato paste, add it now and stir until mixed.
Step 4: Add Broth
Gradually whisk in your chicken broth while stirring continuously. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture by deglazing any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot with your spoon.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in your pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta reaches al dente texture. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add it later.
Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach
Once cooked, open the pot and mix in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional five minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and spices according to preference if needed. Enjoy!
This delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is bound to become a favorite!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup hot for the best experience. This delightful dish can be enjoyed in various ways, adding a personal touch to each serving.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: The perfect companion for dipping and soaking up the rich broth.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist that complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Brightens up the soup with its fresh flavor and aroma.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness to each bowl.
Garnished with Cheese
- Extra Parmesan: Grate some fresh Parmesan on top for an added richness.
- Feta Crumbles: For a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Served with a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a satisfying contrast.
- Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach, nuts, and vinaigrette pair well with the soup’s creaminess.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Making your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup even better is easy with these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor of the soup significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering any ingredient.
- Simmer for Flavor Development: Allowing the soup to simmer longer lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Choose Quality Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth makes a big difference in taste; opt for low-sodium if possible.
- Add Spinach at the End: This keeps it vibrant and ensures it doesn’t lose its nutrients during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pair your soup with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal experience. Each option complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic are ideal for dipping.
- Caprese Salad: Layered tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with veggies adds texture and nutrition.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal vegetables offer sweetness that balances out the creaminess.
- Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread: Spicy cornbread enhances the warmth of your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with grains and cheese make a filling side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken or vegetables can lead to bland soup. Always season throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for tender, juicy pieces by monitoring closely during cooking.
- Using low-quality broth: A low-quality chicken broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Opt for a high-quality broth or homemade stock for richer flavor.
- Rushing the simmering time: Skipping the simmering stage may result in undercooked pasta or flavors not melding properly. Allow sufficient time for the soup to develop its rich taste.
- Not adjusting consistency: Some may find their soup too thick or thin. Experiment with adding more broth or cream until you achieve your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Use a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until hot, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly, about 4-6 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that might help you out.
What is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a rich cream sauce inspired by Tuscan flavors.
Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can use different vegetables or even swap out chicken for another protein like turkey or tofu based on your preference.
How do I make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just delightful; it’s also versatile and customizable. Whether you want to add more veggies or try different proteins, this recipe allows you to create a cozy meal that warms both body and soul. Try it today and share it with loved ones!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Tuscan
Description
Get ready to savor the heartwarming flavors of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany. Perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights, this soup provides a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone in the family will adore. With its quick prep time and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of soul-soothing goodness any day of the week.
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 (small shells recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2–1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 1/2–3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Sauté until translucent.
- Stir in flour to thicken; add tomato paste if using.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Simmer until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer briefly to meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
