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

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a delightful taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this soup is a breeze to make.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it serves as a complete meal in one bowl.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

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: Perfect for even cooking and simmering the soup without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pots.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

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

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)

Thickening Agents

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)

Broth & Pasta

• 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
• 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)

Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2-1 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese

Greens

• 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat the Olive 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, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle the flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the flour in stages to avoid excess drying. If you plan to add tomato paste, add it here and stir.

Step 4: Whisk in Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to ensure there are no lumps. Deglaze the bottom of the pan using your spoon.

Step 5: Simmer with Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid. Lower the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender while ensuring that the pasta is al dente. Optionally, you can boil the pasta separately and add it at the end.

Step 6: Stir in Cream & Spinach

Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, perfect for cozy evenings!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. This rich and comforting soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a gathering, here are some ideal serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• A loaf of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. It adds texture and complements the soup’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with chopped fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the meal. Choose ingredients like mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for freshness.

Over Rice

• Serve the soup over a bed of fluffy rice for an extra hearty meal. This adds a different texture while soaking up the delicious flavors.

With Cheese Toasts

• Melted cheese on toasted bread can be served alongside as a cheesy delight. It’s an excellent way to enjoy every last drop of the soup.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an attractive presentation and a tasty treat at the end!

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup reaches perfection, follow these handy tips. They will help enhance flavor and texture while simplifying the cooking process.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the taste of your soup significantly compared to dried or pre-packaged options.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour gradually while stirring. Alternatively, reduce the amount of broth.

• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout cooking to achieve balanced flavors.

• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooking, consider boiling pasta separately and adding it just before serving for perfect al dente texture.

• Allow Flavors to Meld: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to combine beautifully before serving.

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 excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious broth; make it easily by spreading butter and minced garlic on baguette slices before toasting.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess; toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth; simply toss veggies like carrots and bell peppers in olive oil and roast until tender.

4. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick cheese quesadillas provide cheesy goodness; fill tortillas with cheese, grill until crispy, then slice into triangles.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms make an elegant side; fill mushroom caps with herb cream cheese or breadcrumbs mixed with herbs.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer delightful sweetness; serve warm with butter for an extra touch of comfort.

7. Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges add crunch; season them with herbs or spices before baking until golden brown.

8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are loved by many; choose your favorite cheese between two slices of bread and grill until golden!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and vegetables can lead to bland soup. Make sure to season at each step for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Monitor closely and remove it once it’s no longer pink inside.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can negatively impact the taste of your soup. Choose a high-quality broth or make your own for the best flavor.
• Not adjusting thickness: If your soup is too thick, you may need to add more broth or cream. Always check the consistency before serving.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can affect the soup’s freshness. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring often until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup.

What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup special?

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup combines rich flavors with tender chicken and vegetables, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. You can also use different types of pasta or protein sources.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 50 minutes, including prep and cooking times.

Is Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables, making it a healthy choice when enjoyed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or meal prep options, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and enjoy every comforting spoonful!