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
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce creates a taste explosion in every bowl.
- Hearty Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also filling.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish quickly.
- Versatile Dish: Great for lunch or dinner, this soup can be served as a main course or as a starter.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this soup will impress everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these handy will ensure a smooth cooking process.
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 making soups as it allows for even heating and plenty of space for ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
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)
- 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)
For Liquid and Pasta
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (Start with 6 cups)
- 6 oz pasta (Italian small shells recommended)
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
For Freshness
- 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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:
* Diced onions,
* Carrots,
* Celery,
* Sundried tomatoes,
* Minced garlic.
Cook until they are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken the Base
Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine.
* Add flour gradually to prevent clumping. If using tomato paste, mix it in during this step.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to avoid lumps.
* Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
* Stir in pasta along with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente.
Step 6: Add Cream & Spinach
Open the pot and stir in:
* Heavy cream,
* Fresh spinach,
* Grated Parmesan cheese.
Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup before serving.
* Adjust seasoning with more salt or spices if needed.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your meal experience. This comforting dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.
Enjoy with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every delicious drop.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a flavorful twist that complements the creamy texture.
Add Toppings
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
- Croutons: Add crunchy croutons for extra texture and flavor contrast.
Serve as a Starter
- Small Bowls: Offer small bowls of soup as an appetizer before the main course to whet your guests’ appetites.
- Mini Cups: Use mini cups for a fun and elegant presentation at parties.
Pair with Salads
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad adds a refreshing touch to balance the meal.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bowl is rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the soup’s flavor profile.
- Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream according to your preference for richness.
- Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings gradually to find the perfect balance without overpowering flavors.
- Simmer for Flavor Development: Allow the soup to simmer longer if time permits; this develops richer flavors throughout.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Complementing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup with side dishes can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully with this rich soup.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan make a savory addition.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light, refreshing counterpart.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches offer comfort and go perfectly alongside the soup.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad adds great texture and nutrition, balancing out the creaminess of the soup.
- Bruschetta: Tasty bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes brings a fresh bite that contrasts nicely with the soup’s richness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese provide an elegant touch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Other cuts may not cook evenly, affecting the soup’s consistency.
- Skipping the seasoning: Ensure you season your ingredients throughout the cooking process. This will enhance flavors and prevent a bland soup.
- Not thickening properly: When adding flour, do it gradually to avoid clumps. This will help create a creamy base without lumps in your soup.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Cook it until al dente, or add it at the end if you prefer.
- Ignoring freshness: Fresh spinach adds vibrant flavor and nutrition. Don’t substitute with dried spinach; use fresh for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Make it a day in advance for even better flavors.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as lighter alternatives. Note that this may change the flavor slightly.
How do I customize my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or swap out spinach for kale!
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken can save time and still yield a delicious soup.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or serving guests at a gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Give this recipe a try and experience its heartwarming goodness!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce to create a meal that delights every palate. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this soup is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. With wholesome ingredients and a burst of Italian flavors, you can enjoy this delightful dish as a main course or starter. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 – 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onions
- ¼ cup diced sundried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup flour
- 6 – 8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (Italian small shells recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 – 3 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; brown for about 4–5 minutes.
- Add onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic; cook until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Sprinkle in the flour gradually while stirring to combine.
- Whisk in the chicken broth slowly while stirring continuously.
- Bring to a boil and add pasta; reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Opt for fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Cooking pasta separately can help prevent overcooking. Customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or kale.
