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 cream sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this is a rich and satisfying meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible taste that will make everyone come back for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to modify the veggies or use different types of pasta based on what you have at home.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this soup and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s just as good, if not better, the next day!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty soup packed with flavors and nutrients.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while providing ample space for all ingredients.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables and chicken, making prep work easier.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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: Sauté 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, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in Flour
Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck on the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, boil pasta separately and add it later.
Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach
Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and spices as needed.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal with sides, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this comforting soup.
With Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette – Its crispy crust and soft interior make for the perfect dipping companion.
- Garlic bread – Adds a savory twist and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped basil – A sprinkle of fresh basil brings out the Tuscan flavors beautifully.
- Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the presentation.
As a Hearty Meal
- Serve over rice – Adding a scoop of rice makes this soup even more filling and satisfying.
- Pair with a side salad – A light salad balances the richness of the creamy soup.
In a Bread Bowl
- Rustic bread bowls – Perfect for serving individual portions, adding an edible element to your meal.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality chicken broth – The base flavor comes from your broth, so opt for homemade or low-sodium varieties for better taste.
- Adjust seasoning gradually – Start with less salt and pepper; you can always add more as needed for personal taste preferences.
- Add cream at the end – Stirring in heavy cream towards the end keeps it rich and prevents curdling during cooking.
- Incorporate fresh spinach – Adding spinach at the last moment retains its vibrant color and nutrients while keeping it slightly wilted.
- Experiment with pasta types – Feel free to use different small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini for variety in texture.
- Store properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Complement your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with these delicious side dishes. Each adds its unique flavor and texture to enhance your meal experience.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce combined with creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the rich soup.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables – Roasting veggies brings out their natural sweetness, making them a tasty side option.
- Cheesy Biscuits – Fluffy and cheesy, biscuits are perfect for soaking up all that delicious soup.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
- Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety to your meal.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing bite before enjoying your soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – These hearty peppers filled with grains or meat provide additional sustenance alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, even small errors can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Always taste your soup as you go. Under-seasoning can lead to a bland soup that lacks flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s done to keep it tender. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.
- Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze the pot can result in a less flavorful soup. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added depth.
- Adding cream too early: Adding heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the soup has simmered before mixing in the cream.
- Not adjusting consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water gradually. A well-balanced texture enhances the overall experience.
- Forgetting fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds flavor and nutrition. Don’t skip this ingredient; add it at the right time for optimal freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave in 1-minute increments until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better when made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can replace chicken with turkey or even cooked beans for a vegetarian option that still has great texture.
Is it possible to customize Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on what you have on hand.
How do I make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat cream or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and let its rich flavors warm your heart!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Get ready to indulge in a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that warms the soul. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknight dinners, delivering comfort in every spoonful. With its irresistible flavors from Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this dish will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough for meal prep or customizing with whatever veggies you have on hand! Enjoy this heartwarming soup that promises to bring everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Italian seasoning
- Carrots, celery, onions
- Sundried tomatoes and garlic
- Flour and tomato paste (optional)
- Chicken broth
- Pasta (small shells recommended)
- Heavy whipping cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh spinach
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, sauté diced chicken in olive oil with Italian seasoning until browned.
- Add diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
- Stir in flour and optional tomato paste.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and seasonings. Simmer until pasta is al dente.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
