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 sundried tomatoes creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty soup on the table in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta for a personal touch.
- Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family gatherings.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend perfectly.
- Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly chopping vegetables to save time during prep.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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 and Flavor
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional See notes)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
For Creaminess and Texture
- 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, 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 translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup Base
Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Be cautious when adding flour; do it in stages to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it now and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring repeatedly to eliminate lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta along with another teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, you can boil pasta separately and add at the end.
Step 6: Stir in Creamy Ingredients
Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Final Taste Adjustments
Taste your soup one last time before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or spices if needed.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms both body and soul! Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. This rich and flavorful soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its creamy goodness and make for a satisfying meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Loaf – The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are ideal for dipping into the creamy broth.
On a Bed of Rice
- Steamed White Rice – A simple option that absorbs the flavors beautifully while adding a comforting texture.
- Herbed Quinoa – Offers a nutty flavor and extra nutrients, making your meal more wholesome.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness and color, enhancing presentation.
- Basil Leaves – Their aromatic quality brings out the Tuscan flavors in the soup.
As Part of a Salad Combo
- Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complement the Italian essence of the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
To achieve the best version of your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bowl is as delicious as possible.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs have more flavor and nutrients than dried or stale ones.
- Control Thickness – Adjust the amount of flour to get your desired soup consistency; less flour makes it thinner, more makes it thicker.
- Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices at each stage for balanced flavors.
- Simmer Slowly – Allowing the soup to simmer gently enhances the depth of flavors in every bite.
- Add Cream Last – Incorporating heavy cream at the end prevents curdling and maintains its luscious texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to complement this hearty dish:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are an ideal side that can soak up leftover broth.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
- Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup while still being filling.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a fresh bite before diving into the soup.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses adds an elegant touch; consider including parmesan or mozzarella for added flavor ties.
- Green Beans Almondine – Crispy green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and balance to your meal.
These side dishes not only complement your creamy soup but also make for an enjoyable dining experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the chicken can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to brown your chicken well for richer taste.
- Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can make your soup too thick. Start with less and gradually add more if needed while stirring well.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it can become mushy. Aim for al dente and consider cooking it separately if unsure.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or stale ingredients can ruin your dish. Always use fresh ingredients for a vibrant and tasty soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; remember to leave space for expansion.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot. Cover to prevent splatters.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup, here are some common questions answered.
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Yes! You can substitute turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing vegetables for an extra kick.
Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?
While you can use low-fat cream, it may not be as rich and creamy. Consider adding a bit more cheese for flavor.
What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different proteins according to your preference!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup! This luscious, hearty soup features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for cozy evenings or busy weeknights. With an irresistible blend of Italian flavors from garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, every spoonful is a warm hug for your taste buds. Quick to prepare and customizable with your favorite ingredients, this family-friendly dish is also freezer-friendly, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that will surely satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onions
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 6–8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (small shells recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2.5 cups fresh spinach
- ½ –1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned (4-5 minutes).
- Stir in carrots, celery, onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; combine well and add tomato paste if desired.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a boil; add pasta and remaining Italian seasoning. Reduce heat; simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese; simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 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: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
