Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners. Its delightful flavors and satisfying texture make it a standout choice for any occasion, ensuring warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Heartwarming Flavor: The blend of Italian seasoning, sundried tomatoes, and creamy broth creates a rich taste that comforts the soul.
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover chicken or any veggies you have on hand to make this recipe your own.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it the perfect meal for family gatherings.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for future meals.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all the ingredients to simmer perfectly.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for achieving the right flavor balance in your soup.
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
For the Vegetables
- 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 & Flavor
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend start with 6 cups. See notes.)
For Creaminess & Garnish
- 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: Brown 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, 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 are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture in the pot. Stir well to combine. Add it gradually to avoid clumping. If you’re using tomato paste, add it at this point as well.
Step 4: Whisk in Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring everything to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes until both chicken is tender and pasta is al dente. You can also boil pasta separately if preferred.
Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach
After simmering, open the pot again. Stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Final Taste Check
Taste your soup one last time! Adjust seasoning with extra salt or spices if needed before serving.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every warm bowlful!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. There are many ways to serve this comforting dish to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Enjoy slices of warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up the rich broth.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of flavor and color.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Complement your soup with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Offer Grated Cheese on the Side
- Provide extra grated Parmesan for guests who want to add more cheesy goodness.
Use Bowls that Retain Heat
- Serving in warmed bowls can help keep the soup hot longer, enhancing the overall enjoyment.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly elevate the flavor of your soup.
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Control the Thickness: Adjust the flour and cream amounts based on your desired thickness; less flour yields a lighter soup.
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Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer a firmer texture, cook pasta separately and combine before serving.
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Taste as You Go: Regularly taste for seasoning adjustments, especially after adding cream and cheese.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup pairs well with several delightful side dishes. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments to complete your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making it an excellent pairing.
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Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, complementing the soup’s richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition to your meal while balancing flavors.
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Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese provide a comforting side that can be dipped into the soup.
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Stuffed Peppers: An inventive choice, stuffed peppers filled with rice and meat make for a hearty addition.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates an appealing starter before your soup.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges give a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the creamy soup.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables can lead to bland soup. Always season generously at every stage of cooking for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you add your pasta too early, it may become mushy. Cook it just until al dente or add it later to maintain its texture.
- Ignoring the cream temperature: If you add cold cream directly to hot soup, it may curdle. Warm the cream slightly before adding it to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Using dried spinach instead of fresh: Dried spinach won’t give you the same vibrant taste and texture. Always opt for fresh spinach for best results.
- Not adjusting broth quantity: Adding too much broth can dilute flavors. Start with less and adjust as needed based on desired soup consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, though this will alter the flavor slightly.
How do I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust spices according to your preferences.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for cozy nights and can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying every spoonful feels!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy embrace of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, a heartwarming dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth. This delightful recipe is ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, delivering a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With its rich Italian flavors from herbs and sundried tomatoes, this soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 6 to 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Spinach (fresh)
- Pasta (Italian small shells)
Instructions
- 1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (4–5 minutes).
- 2. Add carrots, celery, onions, sundried tomatoes, and garlic; sauté until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- 3. Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
- 4. Bring to a boil; add pasta and simmer on low for about 20 minutes until cooked.
- 5. Stir in cream and fresh spinach; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- 6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
